Articles posted by smpadmin

Aug 13 2017

Mackay Road Runners annual Eimeo 5km & 14km event was held in perfect conditions from the spectacular location of the Eimeo Pacific Hotel.  Approximately sixty runners enjoyed the staggered start based on their handicap before tackling the testing undulations of Dolphin Heads in the shorter race then proceeding towards the Eimeo School precincts via Blacks Beach’s testing Camilleri Street  and Busuttin Drive in the longer event.

Club President, Tim Magoffin welcomed the keen crowd including many new runners and existing members to test themselves against the clock as well as partake in a great couple of hours of supportive banter and picturesque course vistas. Timekeeper and Results co-ordinator, Brendan Bishop, Tim and Di Morgan did a great job sending runners on their individual handicap start times, which is gauged and recalibrated each week based on their past club performances this year.

Ashlee Scott was once again outstanding in the 5km, clocking the fastest overall male and female time of eighteen minutes eighteen seconds ahead of Alana Ford (19:43) and junior sensation, Tahlia Campbell (20:36).  Tahlia placed first on handicap, with Finn Zamparutti, Anthony Blines, Scott McIntosh, Jamie Bornman, Alana Ford, Russell VandenBosch, Cilla Martland, Jo Hughes and Ashlee Scott rounding out the top ten handicap finishers. Scott McIntosh (18:43) was the fastest 5km male, ahead of Josh Bornman (19:07) and Finn Zamparutti (21:00).  Excellent performances in the 5km also came from Shane Barben, Sandra Henderson, Emma Carlos, Jenene McLellan and Peter Ford.

The 14km race saw backmarker ie highest handicapped runner, Julian Picot commence his run in a position seemingly impossible to catch many runners, however a stellar performance from the gun saw him reeling in runners at will with his speed and determination, clocking fifty-three minutes fifty-one seconds and amazingly finishing fifth overall on handicap.  Second fastest, Carl Pinkstone (58:29) ran well placing 8th on handicap with third fastest male, Andy List finishing a very respectable 12th on handicap. Carmel Mahon was the fastest female (1:12:22) ahead of Jo Skinner (1:16:26), Judy Zahn (1:18:16) and Jose Short (1:19:04). Chris Skinner had an outstanding run, winning the Handicap 14km race ahead of Chris Webb, Jo Skinner and Iggy Van Rensburg. Big Improver, Leon Ryan came in sixth, half a minute behind Julian Picot, with Alan Zamparutti, Carl Pinkstone, Stephen Oberg, Craig McGahey, Judy Zahn, Andy List, Jared Spence, Robyn Madill, Rebecca Woods and Linda Wetherall following in quick succession. Carolyn Steginga, Martin Lambert, Ashley Davies, Derek Woods, Ricky Parker, Stuart Sprott and Ulrika Widdowson followed through with some great back end performances.

Runners were very grateful for the water aid stations manned by Mark, Linda and Millie McFadzen and Andrew Short.  This is a very special race for Andrew, who was unable to run today due to injury, as it was his first ever run with the Mackay Road Runners four years ago. The Club has been blessed ever since Andrew joined up with his congenial, super helpful and supportive nature.  The writer remembers meeting Andrew at his first run….she couldn’t get a word in….ummmm……NOT!

This Sunday’s Mackay Road Runners NQBP Open and Podiatry Mackay Junior Magic Mile will commence 9am at the Mackay Marina Breakwater.  The run is open to members and non-members whilst being a Signature and Club Championship event, supported by the North Queensland Bulk Ports who will close the Breakwater for the race, and generous long term Sponsor, Podiatry Mackay’s Donald Orr. The 1.6km distance is an iconic race on the Club’s calendar, with race records held by local running legend Charlie Martel and four time Olympian and local girl,  Benita Willis.  The race will commence 9am sharp so that the Breakwater can be reopened to the general public……all welcome!

Aug 6 2017

Local runners including Mackay Road Runners members were spoilt for choice last weekend with a variety of running options being served up on the menu across the state. The various events including the popular Townsville Marathon Running Festival, Brisbane Marathon Running Festival, the inaugural Mackay Mountain Marathon at Eungella and the Mackay Road Runners weekly Club run at Lamberts Beach.

Ex Mackay Road Runners, Julian Picot claimed a sensational second place in the Townsville Marathon, David Perkins participated in his tenth Townsville Marathon and Peter Houghton was outstanding in his second ever marathon, with his first one only this year at the Gold Coast. Mackay’s Townsville Half Marathoners included Daren Galea (1 hr 31 min 32 sec and 2nd in his age category), Graeme Railton (1:35:48), Clay Perkins (1:38:41), Joseph Grech (1:42:55), Jose’ Short (1:49:27 and 2nd in age), Carmel Grech (2:03:21), Tracey Dean (2:04:06), June Bradley (2:04:08), Natasha Davis (2:12:19) and  Madonna Bugeja (2:32:57) as well as a bevy of locals in the 10km and 5km events.

The inaugural Eungella Mackay Mountain Marathon run was staged in perfect conditions and surroundings via the undulating, winding roads and beautiful testing trails  of the Eungella National Park.  Local Mackay Road Runners took advantage of a variance of distances from 38km, 15km and 5km. Junior runner, Jamie Sanders took on the 15km challenge, collecting bronze alongside Shelley Binney, who scored the silver medal within a strong field of approximately eighty runners and walkers. Outstanding Junior female athlete, Rachel Silvestri, who thoroughly enjoyed running in her backyard, was first for the girls in the 5km,  with a superb display of road and trail running ahead of Layla Sanders, Maddy Price and Indee Price. The 38km was a tough outing, with Leon Ryan taking gold in 3 hrs 34 min 11 sec ahead of James Leonard (3:36:36), Tim Caddy (4:07:25) and Pieter Van Uuvren (4:11:26).

Meanwhile, locally, approximately thirty runners enjoyed the unexpectedly warm conditions in the social 5/10km run from the Seabreeze Tavern Hotel, Lamberts Beach precincts at 4pm last  Sunday afternoon. Courageous twelve year old Tahlia Campbell smashed the 10km course in spectacular form, scoring a victory in the process.  Liam Mumford easily took out the 5km run despite a football injury the previous weekend. Liam will now head back to the USA to continue his academic and athletics scholarship which includes a 7000 feet altitude training camp in the first week of his return. Russell VandenBosch, Ross Vickers, Stuart Sprott, Jo Skinner, Craig McGahey, Sarah Jensen, Ashleigh Davies,  and Ulrika Widdowson also performed extremely well.

This Sunday’s Mackay Road Runners 5km/14km event is scheduled for a 4pm handicap start from the Eimeo Pacific Hotel carpark precincts. All runners are reminded to wear their race numbers and timing chips and be registered with the timing steward/registrar by 3.45pm at the very latest. This will then allow the course briefing and club news to be delivered by the Race Director.   All runners must be aware of their own safety whilst running on the roads at all times as well as being hydrated and nutritionally prepared for your event.

A reminder to all Members that the Committee meet monthly on the second Monday at 5.30pm to discuss upcoming events, club progress, etc….. therefore, all committee members are requested to attend and ALL Members are most welcome.

Jul 30 2017

Mackay Road Runners hosted its annual Reef Forest 4.5km Junior and 9km Senior Club Championship race last weekend from the beautiful precincts of the Cape Hillsborough National Park. Over fifty runners enjoyed the challenging events which took place across multiple surfaces, including the exquisite Cape Hillsborough Beach’s sandy foreshore, bitumen/dirt roads and the scenic National Park rainforest loop. Weather conditions were absolutely magical for a day of cross country running with a very cool start and warming up to a perfect sunny winter’s day in North Queensland.

Club President, Tim Magoffin welcomed eager athletes with an unusually quiet course description, due to the early hour (8am!) and consideration for all the tourists in the area having a sleep in. Tim welcomed many new runners to join the congenial comradery of the Mackay Road Runners Club which was very apparent throughout the run and at the very relaxing post run random draws and sausage sizzle.

Craig Pinkstone (37 minutes 17 seconds) was outstanding in the 9km event, easing into his 9km race with measured patience in the early stages before surging to the lead on the meandering, undulating off roads and rainforest loop, maintaining his gold medal position to the finish line. Previous winner of this event, Shawn Claydon (40:09) was relegated to second, with Mark McFadzen (41:32) collecting the final podium position. Fourth placed Lindsey Wiggins (43:57) came storming home ahead of Leon Ryan (44:35) with Finn Zamparutti (45:42), Greame Harris (45:46:24),Michael Feenaghty (45:46:75), Scott McIntosh (46:35) and Tim Caddy (48:47) rounding out the top ten and all under fifty minutes.

Ashlee Scott (42:30) was sensational once again, scoring maximum Female Club Championship points as well as being fourth overall! Alana Ford (44:10) secured the silver medal and sixth overall ahead of previous winner Carmel Mahon (48:10), Jose Short (48:49), Karla Hook (53:43), Vicki Vickers (54:17), Brenda Windsor (1:06:53), Ulrika Widdowson (1:07:52) and Cilla Martland (1:14:42).

The maximum Junior Female Club Championship points for the day were awarded to Rachel Silvestri, who scorched over the 4.5km course in 22 minutes 04 seconds. Rachel ran an awesome race to also place first overall in the 4.5km, sprinting the testing surfaces to claim victory ahead of the previous weekend’s record breaking Podiatry Mackay/Laura Pettifer Inspirational Eungella Junior King of the Mountain and selection into the Queensland Secondary School Cross Country Team. The sixteen year old has found another gear this year and is very worthy of representing Queensland in Tasmania on 10th August. Second placed Layla Sanders (26:42) flew the flag for the Sanders family in the absence of her older brother, whilst Jamie Bornman scored bronze for the girls. Senior runners, Jo Skinner, Rebecca Woods and Nikki Giles enjoyed the shorter course option, performing extremely well against their younger rivals. Josh Bornman (23:38) easily accounted for the 4.5km course claiming valuable Club Championship points followed by senior runners, Jared Spence and Brendan Bishop.

Many thanks to multi-skilled volunteers Paul Tilse (BBQ chef/pantrymaid/Registrar); Tim Magoffin (course setup/packup/MC/random draws barrel boy); Andrew Short (course setup/packup, course marshall), Jose Short (merchandising/social butterfly), Brendan Bishop (timekeeper/result co-ordinator/athlete.)

Congratulations to all Amart Sports vouchers and chocolate random draw winners, especially Adam Knesevic and Alana Ford who unbelievably won with numbers 1 & 2 but will no doubt be sharing with non-prize winner, Jim Ford…..NOT!

In out of town running, Mackay Road Runners Member, Moranbah’s Gary Jenkinson performed extremely well in the Australian Outback Marathon in the centre of the Continent, Uluru. Gary’s time of 4 hours seven minutes was an excellent result due to the toughness of the event. Gary was feeling the post-race sore muscle side effects later the same day, however, with a couple of Snickers for replenishment, his recovery is on track.
This Sunday’s social 5/10km run commences 4pm from the Seabreeze Tavern precincts, Lamberts Beach. Best wishes to entrants in other running events this weekend – Townsville Running Festival and the Eungella Mountain Marathon.

Jul 23 2017

The running of the prestigious Mackay Road Runners Signature Club Championship MTTest/Mackay Tyrepower King & Queen and Podiatry Mackay/Laura Pettifer Inspirational Junior King & Queen of the Mountain was an outstanding success. The event, which started at Netherdale for the Open 6.4km race and half way up the Mountain for the junior race, was held in perfectly cool conditions at the commencement time of 8am. The conditions turned very warm as athletes scorched up the Mountain to the finish line which was just before the entrance of the historical and iconic Eungella Chalet who was also a sponsor of the event.

Over sixty runners challenged themselves on the testing course towards the pinnacle before relaxing at the Eungella Chalet for breakfast and spectacular clear vistas of the Pioneer Valley and beyond. After Mackay Road Runners Club President, Tim Magoffin, welcomed members and casual day runners, he then requested a one minute silence be held for multi-talented athlete and previous Queen of the Mountain, Laura Pettifer, who passed away in a cycling training accident in 2008. In Laura’s honour, her Mum, Veronica Pettifer, has sponsored a perpetual trophy and sports voucher for the first male and female junior winners as inspirational encouragement for their development.
Podiatry Mackay’s, Donald Orr has also been a major part of the junior race by donating cash prizes for over fifteen years for the first four males and females across the line as well as feet lollies for every runner as they conquered the course.

This year’s Podiatry Mackay/Laura Pettifer Inspirational Junior King and Queen winners were sensational running duo, Rachel Silvestri and Will Morgan, who have both just been away in Brisbane for State Secondary School Cross Country trials, where Rachel scored a coveted place in the Queensland team to go to the National Titles in chilly Tasmania in a couple of weeks. Second placed male in the junior event, Sam Riggs ran a great race to take silver ahead of brothers, CJ & Jesse Robinson. Anabella DuToit was sensational, claiming second followed by Layla Sanders and Lauren Morgan.

The MTest/Mackay Tyrepower Eungella King of the Mountain crown remained with the incumbent winner, Liam Mumford who posted a fourth straight victory over first time King of the Mountain runner Hunter McGovern. Fifteen year old, Hunter has been in superb form scoring several personal bests this season with yet another successful run, finishing only seconds behind Liam. Daren Galea, who placed third ahead of Jade Hammer, ran extremely well whilst supporting two young runners in the junior event. The MTest/Mackay Tyrepower Queen of the Mountain went to speedy Ashlee Scott ahead of Mackay Road Running buddy, Alana Ford. Both girls are first timers over this course, with very successful results over previous Queen of the Mountain, Carmel Mahon and Jose Short. Ashlee, who is one of a host of fine female runners within the Mackay Road Runners ‘ranks, has unlimited potential over the longer and hilly events as well as the shorter ones. Both male and female race records in the 6.4km event remained unbroken despite a $500 bonus cash incentive by an unnamed Club Member for the male and/or female to break the 1991 feat of 27 minutes 51 seconds set by local male running legend, 13 time race winner, Charlie Martel and Townsville’s Alison Wilson (34:55).

Congratulations to all runners and cyclists who participated, whether personal goals were attained or not….the action and purpose of having a go, knowing it would be tough was awesome, everyone should be very proud of themselves. Many thanks to all volunteers including members of the Mackay Road Runners, Mackay Cycling Club and Mackay Triathlon Club, MTest, Mackay Tyrepower, Podiatry Mackay, Veronica Pettifer, Eungella Chalet, Maz Wright (homemade goodies), Finch Hatton Police, Tropical North ABC Radio (Teegs), The Daily Mercury and Midweek newspapers…..so much appreciated.

The Mackay Road Runners event this Sunday commences 8am from The Cape Hillsborough Park/BBQ area near The Resort. The 4.5km & 9km Junior and Senior Club Championship run will be followed by a free social sausage sizzle and random prize draws for runners and supporters. Casual day runners are most welcome for a very low non-member fee of $10.

Jul 16 2017

Approximately thirty Mackay Road Runners enjoyed a very social Magpies Meander 4.5km & 9km run from the Magpies Sporting Club carpark precincts at 4pm last Sunday. Club President, Tim Magoffin welcomed the athletes to the annual event whilst a huge contingent of local runners attended the Airlie Running Festival and Secondary School State Cross Country Championships.

Cool conditions met the runners, however, it warmed up quickly as runners meandered via the off road pathways from Magpies beside the beautiful Gooseponds parklands and waterways. Josh Bornman lead the 4.5km from the gun, although Paul Tilse did have the jump on him at the start line, but not for long. Jamie Bornman was outstanding for the girls in the shorter distance ahead of a quality field. Excellent running included athletes,  Colin Hardy, Jo Hughes, Peter Ford, Paul Tilse, Emma Goodman-Jones and Jim Ford.

In the 9k event, Alana Ford warmed up quickly after a cold start, sprinting to cross the line first for the girls, with  Ashleigh Davies easily co-ordinating a star jump whilst running, chatting to the photographer and smiling….all at once! Carolyn Steginga continued her excellent form, completing the 9km event in awesome style ahead of Jo Skinner, Jose Short and Carmel Mahon. Russell VandenBosch ran extremely well with his barefoot shoes and his bare feet throughout the 9km event, followed by Craig McGahey, Peter Wright, Tim Magoffin and Daniel Stampa. Well done to Craig McGahey and Jo Skinner for backing up after their half marathon efforts at Airlie earlier in the day.

Congratulations to the Airlie Running Festival runners, who had to contend with very warm conditions  throughout their events, including the Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km and 5km. Excellent results were posted by Marathon runners, Brenda Windsor, Mark McFadzen and Tim Caddy, as well as Half Marathon runners ex local Peter Moore (2nd):  one whom we call a local, Hamilton Island’s Stephen Jackson (3rd); Mackay’s Greame Harris (11th), Michael Feenaghty (12th), Lindsey Wiggins, Craig McGahey, Martin Lambert, Scott Todd, Jo Skinner, June Bradley, Vicki Vickers, Marie Muscat, Alex Anderson, Debbie Joynson, Julie Whibley and Chris Banney. Ashlee Scott was super sensational taking gold and 4th overall in the 10km event, with Shawn Claydon also taking home some silverware, collecting 3rd for his efforts in the 10km.  Not to be outdone, talented veteran runner Ricky Parker scored a sizzling second place ahead of a huge field of quality junior and senior 5km runners. Emma Goodman-Jones also conquered the heat and the 5km course by placing 6th female and then warming down with a 4.5km run with Mackay Road Runners in the arvo.

Results were not to hand at time of printing for the junior runners competing in Brisbane at the State Secondary School Cross Country Championships, however, there were many Mackay runners in attendance competing against the State’s best. The writer looks forward to hearing the eventual results for possible publication next week.

Out of town and local runners and cyclists are looking forward to this weekend’s Podiatry Mackay/Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy Junior (3.2km) King and Queen of the Mountain and the 6.4km MTest (run) & Mackay Tyrepower (cycle) Eungella King and Queen of the Mountain at 8am this Sunday.  There is a first time incentive of a $500 cash bonus by an unnamed Running Member to the male and/or female runner in the 6.4km foot race if the 1991 records are broken. This is in addition to cash prizes by MTest Mackay. The records have been set by Mackay running legend and thirteen time race winner, Charlie Martel in a VERY quick time of 27 min 51 sec and Townsville’s Alison Wilson (34:55). The running event doubles as the Mackay Road Runners Junior and Senior Club Championship as well as being an integral, unique and historical run which has been part of the community for over thirty years.  Junior runners will start their event half way up the Mountain with the first male and female taking home the coveted Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy as well as cash prizes from Podiatry Mackay.  The passing of multi-talented athlete, Laura Pettifer in 2008 whilst on a cycling training session was devastating to the local community as well as interstate and abroad among her family, friends and colleagues. Laura was the 2008 Queen of the Mountain and her legacy continues with the donation of sports vouchers and a perpetual trophy for junior runners from her mother, Veronica.  Many thanks to all of our awesome long standing sponsors and supporters, Finch Hatton Police, MTest, Mackay Tyrepower, Eungella Chalet (Tess & Tony), Podiatry Mackay, Veronica Pettifer and Maz Wright (local produce). All competitors are advised to be registered by 7.45am at the latest at your individual tables at Netherdale ie Mackay Cycling Club, Mackay Triathlon Club and Mackay Road Runners Club. As this is a point to point one way race and the road will be closed for one hour, supporters and competitors need to ensure their vehicles are at the top before road closure by the Police. To stay in the beautiful Eungella region, please make a weekend of it and book accommodation via one of our proud supporters, The Eungella Chalet ph 4958 4509 or info@eungellachalet.com.au. All runners and cyclists are very welcome to participate, no need to be a member of our Clubs – $10 seniors & $5 juniors.

Jul 9 2017

Approximately fifty runners enjoyed very “un-July-like” warm and humid conditions for the running of the Mackay Road Runners annual Robbo’s 61 Steps commencing at 4pm last Sunday from the Gordon White Library carpark. The testing course took runners on a 5km undulating course through the treacherous ascents and descents of the leafy Mt Pleasant suburb, including High and Pollock Streets, Charles Hodge and Annie Wood Avenues, Norris Road and Bona Vista and James Croker Drives. The 5km loop course as described by Race Director and Club President, Tim Magoffin, meant bad/good news for the 10km runners, as they were sent again for a repeat outing of the tough loop for a second look at the City’s awesome vistas.

Junior runner, Hunter McGovern, easily cruised over the 10km hilly challenge, continuing his excellent form this year and more recently, the Mackay Road Runners 10km Handicap Trophy win at The Grove a couple of weeks ago. Backmarker, Carl Pinkstone also performed exceptionally well, chasing down his peers from the handicap start, clocking the fastest 10km time. It was great so see the return of PRC runners Sandy Strong and Andy List, however, whilst running buddy, Tim Magoffin took a running break,  Martin Lambert was on hand to challenge Sandy and Andy.  Lindsey Wiggins, Leon Ryan, Michael Feenaghty, Scott McIntosh, Mitchell Thompson, Alan Zamparutti, Ross Vickers, Peter Wright, David Isbister and Charlie Bone also set a cracking pace in the 10km race.

Ashleigh Davies set a high standard in the 10km from her handicap start, maintaining her scorching pace to the finish line, as did, Jose Short, Karla Hook, Carmel Mahon, Judy Zahn, Carolyn Steginga, Sarah Jensen, Vicki Vickers, Jan Smith and Brenda Windsor.

Five kilometre competitors, Josh Bornman and Russell VandenBosch sprinted from their handicap gun start, setting a speedy pace toward their rivals who started on their earlier handicap times, including Shane Barben, Simba Walz, Finn Zamparutti, Colin Hardy, Simon Henderson and Mark Walz.  Female junior runners, Tahlia Campbell and Jamie Bornman ran exceptionally well finishing ahead of experienced runners Kim Saron, Sandra Henderson, Julie Whibley and Leanne Franklin.

Many thanks to race day volunteers, Tim Magoffin, Andrew Short, Jo Hughes, Ricky Parker, Stuart Sprott and Lindsey Wiggins.  Mackay Road Runners are now looking forward to next Sunday’s 5km & 9km social run commencing 4pm from Magpies Sporting Complex.  This will be a low key tapering prequel to the following week’s prestigious MTest/Mackay Tyrepower Eungella Open King of the Mountain and the Podiatry Mackay/Laura Pettifer Inspirational Junior Eungella King of the Mountain.  Mackay Road Runners/Mackay Triathlon/Mackay Cycling Clubs wish to thank all the event’s awesome Sponsors for the 6.4km senior/3.2km junior foot race and a 6.4km cycling King/Queen (senior/junior) race from Netherdale at 8am on Sunday 23rd July.  Mackay Road Runners also wish to advise that should the 6.4km foot race records, male and/or female be broken, one of Mackay Road Runners Members has personally sponsored a $500 çash prize.  The current foot race records, set in 1991 by Legendary local Charlie Martel (27 min 51 sec) and Townsville’s Alison Wilson (34:55) have been a tough task ever since that time.

Jul 2 2017

The Mackay Road Runners had a strong contingent of local runners attending the Gold Coast Running Festival last weekend, with many first timers attempting their goal event which included the Marathon (42.2km), Half Marathon, 10km and 5km.  Victoria Beck was sensational, clocking 2 hrs 42 min in the Marathon, 4th in her age and 9th female out of thousands of runners at the iconic event. Jose Short and Bernadine McKinnon completed their first marathon, recording very respectable and of course, personal bests times.  Whilst the Gold Coasters were celebrating their morning achievements, Mackay Road Runners Club held a social 5km & 10km event from the Mt Pleasant Tavern carpark precincts at 4pm.

Club President, Tim Magoffin welcomed approximately forty runners to the event to participate in the 5km or 10km event before briefing them on the course description, which took runners from the undulating Mt Pleasant suburb towards the City Centre for the 5km runners and beyond towards The Fish Markets for the 10km. Several runners competed very well, extending themselves into unknown territory including Carolyn Steginga, who completed her first 10km.  Carolyn was very excited to reach the milestone distance, despite her pre run jitters.  Junior runner, Jamie Sanders ran a well-paced 10km to cross the line first ahead of local running champion, Shawn Claydon. Jamie and Shawn were shoulder to shoulder with approximately five hundred metres to go, when Jamie surged forward to take the overall lead.  Ashleigh Davies easily cruised the 10km field as did Alana Ford, Carmel Mahon, Chris Skinner, David Isbister, Peter Wright, Peter Ford, Ricky Parker, Josh Bornman, Simon Henderson, Judy Zahn, Vicki Vickers, Andy List, Julie Whibley and Jo Skinner. Rachel Silvestri maintained her winning ways, easily skimming over the 5km course ahead of Layla Sanders, Maddy Price, Jamie Bornman and Colin Hardy. Many thanks to race day set up volunteers, Andrew Short, Sandra Henderson and Tim Magoffin.

This Sunday’s Robbo’s 61 Steps 5/10km event commences from the Gordon White Library carpark, Mt Pleasant.  Runners are required to be signed on with the Registrar and Timekeepers by 3:50pm sharp with racing to commence at the gun time of 4pm.  Runners must also have their individual computerised timing chips fastened securely to their shoes and their race number plate on the front of themselves.  Casual day runners are welcome to attend, however an official race time will not be formally recorded.  Members results are usually uploaded to the mackayroadrunners.com.au website within 24 hours, however, if not, please be patient as there may be processing issues.

Jun 18 2017

Mackay Road Runners Club President, Tim Magoffin, welcomed over fifty runners to the annual Forsyth’s Accountants 5km Junior and 10km Senior Club Championship races. Among the competitors were race sponsors, David, Bernie and Cameron Forsyth and their gun runner employee Shawn Claydon, who placed 2nd in the 10km open male section. That’s not saying that Cameron, David and Bernie aren’t gun runners, however, I do believe there were a few cramps after the race but one of them.

Forsyth’s Accountants are to be congratulated for being an integral part of the Mackay Road Runners Club as a race sponsor for over ten years. David and Bernie Forsyth have also been involved personally with the club for approximately thirty years with them both earning themselves many trophies for their running achievements.  They have also been a vital part of the Club’s committee, assisting in many volunteer roles throughout that time.

Home on holidays from USA, University student and athletic scholarship recipient Liam Mumford, took gold in the 10km event over past champion, Shawn Claydon. Third placed junior, Hunter McGovern chose the longer distance, running exceptionally well among his older and more experienced rivals including fourth placed Mark McFadzen, who earned the final open club championship points.

Ashlee Scott maintained her winning ways to clinch first in the female 10km and fourth overall ahead of second placed Ashleigh Davies, with Carmel Mahon collecting the final podium placing.

Exceptional junior runner, Will Morgan took maximum junior club championship points in the 5km over older junior rival, Josh Bornman followed by first female Rachel Silvestri.  Rachel has been in stunning form, once again breaking the tape first for the girls ahead of Lauren Morgan, Tahlia Campbell and Maddy Price.

There were some excellent performances from juniors and seniors alike, including over seventies competitors, Stuart Sprott and David Isbister. Indiana Brough, Jamie Bornman, Alan Zamparutti, Leon Ryan, Ulrika Widdowson, Jo Hughes, Greame Harris, Scott McIntosh, Cilla Martland, Jan Smith, Jose Short, Simon Henderson, Chris Skinner, Nikki Giles, Michael Feenaghty, Bill Morgan and Lee Taylor ran well to place highly in their events and age categories.

Many Thanks once again to awesome sponsors,  Forsyth’s Accountants and race day volunteers Tim Magoffin, Andrew Short, Lindsey Wiggins, Jose Short, Sandra Henderson, Ange Furdek, and Bernadine McKinnon.

Congratulations to the many local runners who raced the Whitehaven Beach Half Marathon, 10km and 5km, which is a must do on every runners’ calendar. Hamilton Island’s Steve Jackson is the awesome Race Director of this event and as usual organised a very successful outing where runners and supporters thoroughly enjoyed his and his staff’s hospitality in the unique surroundings of the iconic destination.

May 28 2017

The much anticipated annual BMA Mackay Marina Run in support of the Mackay Branch of the Leukaemia Foundation is only a few days away, with thousands of runners already nominated in events from three kilometres to 21.1km.  Race Ambassadors, Steve Moneghetti and Mackay’s home grown running legend, Benita Willis will be mingling with runners and supporters from Friday’s evening’s ‘meet and greet’ at the Ibis Motel, through to Saturday afternoon’s race bag collection and of course, race day!

However, to secure your place at the Friday night event and race registration, go online now, as online race registrations close Friday afternoon. Those who wish to still nominate to run will have to present themselves at the Marina Restaurants carpark precincts  from 12pm to 5pm. Please note to bring cash as EFTPOS facilities will not be available and your race shirt size is not guaranteed.  There will be no late nominations accepted or race bag collection on race day due to race day logistics.  Check out relevant and very important information www.mackaymarinarun.com   including course maps, parking, start times, presentations, etc.

Mackay Road Runners would like to extend their warmest wishes to Sandy, Allyce and Brenton Marchetti, June Hackett, Janelle & Paul Tilse and family, Jo & David Hughes and extended family and friends for the tragic loss of their beloved husband, father, brother, brother-in-law and uncle, who passed away whilst attempting to summit Mt Everest last week.  Among his many attributes, Frank was an excellent runner and the BMA Mackay Marina Half Marathon was one of his favourite local events.  Frank’s unique attempt at securing the lead for as long as possible to the first roundabout in the Half Marathon has been legendary throughout the Event’s history, however, to the many of us who know and love him, his personal goal in achieving this, as well as running his quickest ever first kilometre was a goal he set himself every year. Many a southern running star has  been stunned by this “unknown’s” lightning bolt start and short-lived lead.  It goes without saying his awesome personality will be sadly missed in so many sectors of the local community, as well as interstate, nationally and internationally. His involvement in so many areas allowed him to express his challenges and goals like no other……bye Frank……love you lots!

May 21 2017

Mackay Road Runners held its annual Mt Bassett 5km & 11km in very warm conditions at a 4pm handicap start from the beautiful precincts of New Mulherin Park, East Point Road.  Over fifty runners including many new athletes competed across the two events, with the course meandering from the southern end of East Point Road onto Harbour Road, including ascents of the very testing Mt Bassett.  Club President, Tim Magoffin and Asset Manager, Andrew Short, Registrar, Sandra Henderson, Timekeepers Lindsey and Matilda Wiggins and Arbrey Graves were the awesome race day volunteers which included setup/pack up, timekeeping and race nominations…….they are among many valuable Members assisting the club’s race day activities and ongoing success.

The handicap start race saw junior runner Jamie Sanders well back in the 11km field as the last starter due to his awesome running ability.  Jamie ran with exceptional maturity to chase down senior top class runners, Shawn Claydon and Ryan Palazzi who both bolted from the starter’s gun a few minutes ahead of him.  Shawn had the fastest time ahead of Jamie by only two minutes, however the handicap winner on the day went to new runner, Chris Skinner. Second place was new Mum for the sixth time, Kathleen Munn, having had her last baby only ten months ago……amazingly gifted athlete! Third on handicap, Finn Zamparutti, ran extremely well ahead of fast finishers, Jo Skinner, Jared Spence, Craig McGahey, Emma Goodman-Jones, Matt Graves, Greame Harris and Stuart Sprott. Michael Feenaghty finished just outside the top ten by three seconds, followed by Alan Zamparutti ten seconds later. Big improver, Sarah Jensen, currently in superb form, was next to finish twoseconds later, with Charlie Bone, one second later. Congratulations to Carmel Mahon on being the fastest female, placing 16th across the finish line based on her handicap start.

In the 5km handicap start, impressive Rachel Silvestri recorded the fastest time overall, however, Simba Walz crossed the line first on handicap and the fastest male time. Paige Stolberg easily cruised over the course, claiming second place on handicap ahead of her older rival and biggest supporter, Edan Stolberg. Layla Sanders, Lauren Morgan and Mark Walz crossed the line next in quick succession with Rachel in seventh handicap place. Carolyn Steginga’s eighth place was less than one minute ahead of Paul Tilse, Kim Saron, Emma Carlos, Colin Hardy, Leanne Connor, Jenene McLellan, Russell VandenBosch, Hayden Connor and Sandra Henderson.

This Sunday’s 5km & 11km North Wall Harbour beach run commences 4pm from Cathy Freeman Oval, Slade Point.  All Members are to arrive at least thirty minutes prior to gun time with their timing chip and race numbers securely attached.  Non-members are most welcome to run however, their time will not be recorded on the formal results….please register to become a Member for minimal cost to be eligible for Member benefits, including formal results, emailed updates, newsletters, trophies,etc….

The BMA Mackay Marina run is less than two weeks away……do NOT miss out, register online now in your choice of events, as well as a unique Friday evening with race Ambassadors, Benita Willis and Steve Moneghetti!  If you don’t run and want to be involved…..contact the Mackay Road Runners Club …….all assistance is much appreciated.