2017

Oct 9 2017

The Mackay Road Runners 21km trail finally got off to a flying start despite being cancelled earlier in the year due to atrociously dangerous weather. The conditions started off with very hazy visibility covering the start line at 8am, however, the skies cleared to a perfectly sunny day by 9am. Runners had the pleasure of racing on the well cleared, dry trails of the Eungella National Park which were previously severely damaged but repaired to pristine condition by awesome Park Ranger Greg Lennox and his team of National Parks and Wildlife workers.

Mackay Road Runners President, Tim Magoffin sent over sixty local and intrastate competitors on their way, all jostling for position early as the trail narrowed significantly as they hit the undulating and meandering trails of the beautiful National Park rainforests. Julian Picot was victorious taking gold in a sensational time of one hour 35 minutes 30 second, three minutes clear of second placed talented Alan Rask, followed by fast finishing Paolo La Penna a further four minutes later. Big improver in the local running scene, Leon Ryan scored an impressive fourth place only four seconds later!

Julie Brunker was the first female in one hour 53 minutes 42 seconds, finishing twelfth overall with second placed female just seven seconds over the two hour mark. Local athlete, Megan Moa claimed the final podium place in two hours one minute and 53 seconds. Congratulations to all runners with a large contingent travelling from Rockhampton, Airlie Beach and Townsville.

Many thanks to Race Director, Matt Stevens who spent an enormous amount of time leading up to the event, during and after. Race organisers and runners were very grateful to many generous sponsors and volunteers who made the day possible. The Eungella Trail run will be an annual event on the Mackay Road Runners program due to the rising popularity of trail and off road running locally and interstate.

Mackay Road Runners Club are very excited to be staging its forty-first Presentation Night this Saturday from 6pm at the newly opened Breakwater Bar & Restaurant (old Yacht Club). The Club warmly invites all Members, their families and friends to join them in congratulating their peers on a great year of successful sportsmanship and running. The Club is looking forward to seeing as many members on the night to take home a series of coveted awards including the Handicap Champion, Male and Female Junior and Senior Club Champions as well as the usual very well received random prizes. There will be a lucky door prize from ESafe Fitness to the value of $168 which has been donated by road runners, Erin, Kristian, Axel and Miss D…..so, what are you waiting for, rsvp now for an enjoyable evening of congenial and supportive heckling!

Oct 1 2017

Last Sunday morning, on NRL Grand final day, Mackay Road Runners held its penultimate event on the formal 2017 program, which was the very social Jungle 5/10km run commencing from the Botanic Gardens Playground carpark, Lagoon Street. Approximately thirty runners enjoyed the 6.30am foggy start  in very humid conditions for a tropical,  scenic loop meandering through the Botanic Gardens and Soundshell precincts.

Ashlee Scott was dominant once again, crossing the finish line first overall in the 5km leaving the quality field in her wake.  Junior runner, Hayden Connor was in fine form despite the early morning start and then off to work after the race.  An excellent run by veteran, Bill Morgan, who has been gradually improving throughout the season, surged towards his undoubted potential in the later stages of the year.  A large contingent of runners from The Little Sprouts Chiropractic Group had a great day out with their families, tackling the social 5km in a very relaxed style, although that was not the case for Dr Anthony, who bolted the 5km in spectacular fashion to cross the finish line marginally behind the leaders.  Excellent performances also came from Jose Short, Bernadine McKinnon, Vicki Vickers, Carolyn Steginga, Carmel Mahon, Simon Henderson, Ross Connor, Craig McGahey, Jo Skinner and Leanne Connor.

The final run on the Mackay Road Runners calendar will be the much awaited Eungella 21k Trail Run which was cancelled earlier this year due to unrelenting inclement weather conditions, which forced it’s cancellation due to the unsafe condition of the National Park. Many thanks to the patience, hard work and resilience of the Eungella National Park’s, Greg Lennox and his Team for their efforts and advices at that time.  Runners are now very excited to finally be able to enjoy the trail run in one of the most beautiful, pristine and iconic locations regionally and internationally.  Racing is set to commence 8am sharp from the Eungella Chalet, with all runners and volunteers registered and checked in at least 15 minutes prior to the gun.  Race Director, Matt Stevens and his committee, welcome all runners and their families to enjoy the hospitality of the Eungella Chalet, whether staying in their accommodation or sampling their awesome cafe and bar menus.  Many thanks to all concerned in staging the sensational event which will have Presentations and random draw prizes post-race for competitors and volunteers in the Eungella Chalet outside dining area.

Mackay Road Runners prestigious annual Awards evening will be held Saturday, 14th October from 6pm at the Breakwater Bar & Restaurant (old Yacht Club), Mackay Marina.  Members, their families and friends are most welcome to attend with junior presentations to be held at 6.30pm and the Senior Presentations from 7.30pm.  All attendees must RSVP to Heather Sprott or Erin Safe ASAP – $55 Members & $65 non-members, with juniors free unless they are staying on for dinner.  The evening promises to be a culmination of a wonderfully full year of exciting events, experiences and achievements…..celebrate in style whilst the comedic and congenial Master of Ceremonies, Club President, Tim Magoffin hosts the evening speeches and awards.  Club Patron, Col Meng with his lovely wife Rhonda, will be on hand to present trophies to the deserved recipients.  Photographer, Paul Tilse will be on hand, no doubt under major duress, to record the evening images for Members, as well as collating a slide show of the year that was.

Sep 24 2017

Mackay Road Runners final Club Championship race of the year was held last Sunday afternoon at 4pm from Queens Park in warm, but perfect running conditions. Approximately forty runners were vying for valuable open and age category Club Championship points towards the coveted end of year trophies to be presented at the annual Awards evening on 14th October.

Allan Rask was outstanding, snatching victory from previous winner, Shawn Claydon by a mere three seconds with Carl Pinkstone relegated to third two seconds later. The top three enjoyed shoulder to shoulder racing from the gun with anyone of three definitely gold medal contenders. Fourth placed, Jared Spence was the third placed club member and will therefore, take the final club championship point on offer. The female section was taken out convincingly by Ashlee Scott (11:08) followed by fast finishing Alana Ford (12:32), junior sensation, Maddy Price (13:19) and Carmel Mahon (13:25).

There were some exceptional performances on show including visiting junior runners from the Sunshine Coast, Toby & Cory VanDenBogert with their Uncle, Russell VanDenBosch, Stuart Sprott, Jenene McLellan, Jan Smith, Sandra Henderson, Chris Skinner, Ricky Parker, Simon Henderson, Bill Morgan, Alan Zamparutti, Lauren Morgan, Ross Connor, Judy Zahn, Jose Short, Andrew Short, Julie Whibley and Anthony Blines.

Many thanks to race day volunteers, Peter Wright, Lindsey Wiggins, Kim Saron, Paul Tilse, Andrew Short, Paul Arvidson, Martin Lambert, the Bishop Family, Tim Magoffin and Linda McFadzen. Many thanks also to the Mackay Road Runners Club who sponsored the random draws to twelve lucky recipients, not including Chris Skinner and Ricky Parker.

Local athletes had a myriad of events to choose from this weekend, including the Mackay Triathlon Festival and Run the Whitsunday Great Walk. With full results not available to the writer at time of printing, congratulations to all participants in both events, specifically Jo Skinner who scored gold in her age at the tough 28km Whitsunday run at beautiful Airlie Beach.

In other out of town news, Rachel Silvestri competed in the North Queensland Athletics Championships in Townsville last weekend, racing extremely well in the 800m and 1500m. The sixteen year old placed an exceptional third in the under 18 girls 1500 metres behind an Australian runner and a Cairns top class runner.

Club President, Tim Magoffin, announced the Presentation Night will be held 14th October at 6pm at the Breakwater Bar & Restaurant (old Yacht Club) – all juniors and seniors members, friends and families are most welcome to attend…$65 (non-members) and $55 (member) with the Junior Presentation to be held at the special time of 6.30pm at no cost unless they stay on for dinner. Invitations have been emailed, therefore please RSVP ASAP, however, if you have not received your flyer, please contact the Club.

This Sunday’s Club event, The Alarm Guys Jungle 5/10km run commences at 6.30am from the Botanic Gardens playground carpark, Lagoon Street. Please note the morning start time due to the NRL Grand Final in the afternoon…..go COWBOYS!

Sep 17 2017

The Mackay Road Runners annual Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy held last Sunday afternoon is one of the major highlights on the Club’s calendar. The 10km handicap start race winner takes home the magnificent and coveted framed Benita Willlis shirt, personally signed by the World Cross Country Champion, four time Olympian and local Mackay girl, Benita Willis. The Club, who are so appreciative Benita’s continual and constant support, are extremely proud of her achievements at home and abroad as well as her generosity and humility being the very respected role model that she is. Benita was in town briefly last Friday as the inaugural Race Ambassador of the 5/10km Cityrun at the Mackay Marina. Unfortunately, Benita had fly back to Brisbane to host another major event the very next morning and was unable to attend the presentation to this year’s deserved winner, Rebecca Woods.

Rebecca was very excited as she humbly accepted the major achievement presented by last year’s winner, speed sensation, Ashlee Scott. Rebecca admitted to some important nutritional habits as the key to her success and the fact it was a very flat race after last weekend’s very hilly course. Rebecca will formally receive the perpetual Trophy to keep for 12 months at the Club’s annual Presentation evening on 14th October, however, in the meantime, a visit to hardware will be in order to find a bolt to hang the enormously impressive Trophy. Second placed Sarah Jensen was rapt with her race snaring second place with Tim Caddy, third and more importantly ahead of her dad, Charlie Bone. Club President, Tim Magoffin was given strict instructions by Charlie to slightly distract Sarah so he could get the jump on her pace, however, Tim lost his focus and forgot!

Highest handicapped runner, Julian Picot had an exceptional race, sprinting from his handicapped start of twenty-nine minutes to clock the fastest time of the day. Julian ran extremely well to overtake several runners in a bid to score the prestigious Benita Willis 10km Trophy. Another highlight of the race was a sprint finish between Shawn Claydon and Ricky Parker, with Shawn the eventual winner by a nose. Ricky ”The Flash” Parker was totally spent after his sprint finale, however, knowing it would be dangerous, he couldn’t help himself! Once he recovered, the congenial Flash proceeded to organise several random draws donated by Ricky Parker Painting and Hogs Breath Cafe. The winners were extremely grateful for their prizes, including Tim Magoffin who was happy to thank The Flash in his own special way!

Winner of the 5km, Tahlia Campbell, was sensational in her event, bolting from her handicap start to cross the finish line first ahead of approximately forty runners. Tahlia’s awesome form was impeded by a cold as was second placed, Maddy Price, who was also not feeling on top of her game, however, the girls made sure they didn’t over do it….smart ……and tough girls in Mackay!

Congratulations to all the runners on their individual achievements, including Jose Short, Tim Magoffin, Leon Ryan, Charlie Martel, Carmel Mahon, Jarred Spence, Ashlee Scott, Greame Harris, Karla Hook, Simon Henderson, Cilla Martland, Sandra Henderson, Jan Smith, Colin Hardy, Stuart Sprott, Scott McIntosh, Leanne Franklin, Josh Bornman, Calvin Franklin, Nikki Giles, Ross Connor, Jo Skinner and Judy Zahn. Many thanks to race day volunteers, Andrew Short, Lindsey Wiggins and kids, Paul Tilse, Melissa Harris, Jess Harris, Ricky Parker, Tim Magoffin, Jose Short and Sandra Henderson. Best wishes to Brendan Bishop who is laid up in hospital at the moment, however, I’m sure Tim’s visit will spark him up, so long as he doesn’t mention running!

Superb news for one of the Mackay Road Runners Signature Events, the BMA Mackay Marina Run, which took out first prize in the Mackay Tourism Awards for the Event of the Year…..congratulations to the Leukaemia Foundation as well as Mackay Road Runners volunteers, community and corporate support for their contribution to the outstanding success of the event which will be in its tenth year in 2018. Race Director. Sandy Strong, his wife Chris and the Leukaemia Foundation’s (Mackay Branch) Chris & Barry Comben were present and very honoured to accept the award on behalf of the entire Community.

Mackay Road Runners are now looking forward to this Sunday’s Club Championship 3km event at 4pm from the Queens Park Rotunda via Goldsmith Street entrance. Runners will be vying for vital club championship points in the open and age categories towards end of year trophies. To be eligible to receive points, all runners must be Members and wear their race numbers and timing chips and be registered with the timekeepers at least ten minutes before gun time. This is extremely important for the efficient transition of collating results and handicap/club championship points. Mackay Road Runners Presentation night will be held Saturday 14th October – emailed flyers will be despatched soon.

Sep 10 2017

Mackay Road Runners and race day sponsor, TriActiv8 generously joined forces to host the annual Bonson’s Scrub Road 6km & 12km hilly run which included the very challenging ascents and descents of The Leap’s Ian Reddacliffe Drive. In the absence of Club President, Tim Magoffin, who apparently thought his footy team would win at that time, Paul Tilse was the substitute Race Director, announcing the course description and latest notices.  Paul thanked race sponsor, TriActiv8’s Nikki Giles who was in Mooloolaba competing in the Sunshine Coast’s famous half-ironman event. Nikki had a great race finishing in 5 hours 17 minutes 45 seconds ahead of a sensational effort by her daughter, Rylea Giles (6:45:33)….congratulations girls!

Paul also announced that four time Olympian, Mackay girl, Benita Willis will be in Mackay this Friday as the guest Race Ambassador for the inaugural Cityrun being held Friday, 15th September at the Mackay Marina. Mackay Road Runners will also be hosting the Annual Benita Willis Handicap 10km Trophy where the winner is the first handicapped runner, male or female, to cross the line in the 10km event from a handicap start at the Bluewater Lagoon Trail.  The winner scores themselves the enormous prestigious perpetual Trophy of an awesome Benita Willis framed and signed shirt. The 2016 winner, Ashlee Scott, will be on hand to congratulate the 2017 winner, which, if she continues her stunning form, could be herself!!!

Meanwhile, the TriActiv8 Bonson’s Scrub Road 6km & 12km event was a great success with the winner of the TriActive8 prize of a Garmin watch,  the very ecstatic Scott McIntosh. Scott ran the best improved time from the previous year out of the thirty plus participants across the 6km and 12km events. Jo Skinner was the runner up, scoring herself a well-deserved block of Freddo chocolate, which she may or may not share with Craig, Chris or Tam. There were many other fine performances amongst the quality field including a tight tussle between  Carl Pinkstone and Julian Picot with Carl being the eventual winner followed by Julian and Shawn Claydon.  Jared Spence enjoyed the challenging course as did Russell VandenBosch, Tim Caddy, Leon Ryan, Andrew Wallace, Ricky Parker, Stuart Sprott, Shane Barben, Alan Zamparutti, Mark Walz and Andrew Short. Relative new runner to the Club, Rebecca Woods easily scaled the undulations of Ian Reddacliffe Drive together with Ashley Davies, Carolyn Steginga, Judy Zahn, Carmel Mahon, Karla Hook, Jo Skinner, Anna Walsh, Ulrika Widdowson and Sarah Jensen.

Junior 6km runners also had a testing time, even though they had just the one lap to complete. Rachel Silvestri, who loved the tough outing, was joined by Layla Sanders and Maddy Price who easily accounted for the course which was practically in her own back yard.  Junior runner and big improver, Simba Walz had a sensational run in the 6km racing well against fellow talented junior runner, Jamie Sanders.

Many thanks to race day volunteers who, if not for them, the event would not have been a success – Race Sponsor TriActiv8 (Nikki Giles), Paul Tilse, Andrew Short, Lindsey Wiggins, Greg O’Neill, Ange Furdek, Jacqui Paterson,  Simon Henderson and Sandra Henderson.

Congratulations to Matt Stevens and Pieter VanVuren who sensationally competed in the Surf Coast Ultra Marathon events over the weekend ie the 50km and 100km respectively.  Pieter astonishingly ran a very impressive 15 hours 40 minutes to cross the 100km finish line with hundreds of teams and individual competitors.  Matt also had an incredible run  in the 50km ‘short’ race smashing the course in 7 hours 8 minutes.  The tough course was held in the State of Victoria’s Surf Coast Shire – Surf Coast is the start of the Great Ocean Road, including the main towns of Torquay, Lorne, Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, Winchelsea and the world-famous Bells Beach. Matt and Pieter enjoyed stunning beaches, rich coastal scenery, impressive waterfalls and the natural beauty of amazing trails…..what a mighty effort by the locals….well done!

Sep 2 2017

Mackay Road Runners together with the awesome Park Run Team joined forces to stage their annual social Pre Father’s Day Fun Run 5km & 10km. Park Run Co-ordinator/Race Director, Christine Davies was sensational in organising the event with a multitude of Mackay Road Runners volunteers to assist the very successful event which had nearly one hundred and forty runners, walkers, prams, babies, kiddies and doggies.

Mackay Road Runners Club President Tim Magoffin assisted Christine in the course briefing and any Mackay Road Runners news updates.  The Club also donated Club logo coffee mugs and Mackay Marina Run running singlets in appreciation of the Park Run organisers and participants.  The Park Run organisers and volunteers are crucial to the successful running of the weekly Saturday 7am 5km events from the Botanic Gardens playground, Lagoon Street, with many volunteers registering more volunteer caps than running ones due to the logistics of staging the event.  Christine announced one of the Mackay Road Runners, Judy Zahn, as the Volunteer of the Month, which was very deserved due to her major assistance to the Park Run concept. The Park Run organisers appreciate all their volunteers, however, more assistance is required so that the Volunteers themselves can do a run/walk…..don’t forget to put your name down to help out, it’s amazingly rewarding!

Meanwhile, Mackay Road Runners to do well at The Park Run were first across the line in the 5km, Benji Binney followed by speedy Shawn Claydon who continued on to do another lap to make up 10km for the morning. Ashlee Scott, who loves her regular Park Runs and is a devoted Mackay Road Runner, blitzed the course in her usual sizzling style to be the first female in the 5km. The course photographer had a great morning (even though it was a bit early and cold at the start!) snapping the competitors happily running along, doing star jumps, coaxing their doggies and children to make it to the end, with most then enjoying a relaxing breakfast at the Lagoons Cafe.  It was awesome to see so many supportive volunteers and runners enjoying a great morning out in beautifully perfect weather conditions with so many like-minded individuals. The writer also includes those who were not actually in the Park Run, who were pounding the pavement doing their own thing, in their own time and with their own friends.  One older Gentleman who regularly takes his thirteen year old dog for a walk through the Botanic Gardens trails, then puts him in the pram when his (the dog) arthritis starts playing up, was particularly inspiring.

Other runners to do well were Jared Spence, Jo Skinner, Daren Galea, Karlee Hayden, Scott Todd, Monica Green, Kendall Holmes, Rachel Burling, Carla Smith, Craig McGahey, Carolyn Steginga, Sandy Marchetti, Jo Hughes, Andrew Short, Mitchell Thompson, Matt Graves, Scott McIntosh, Tim Magoffin, Rose Nielsen, Chris Skinner, Natasha Steenkamp, Sean Kelly, Judy Keogh, Sherrie Savage, Charlie Bone, Sarah Jensen, Tam Wanstall, Jose Short, Shelley Binney, Bernadine McKinnon and June Bradley.

This Sunday’s Mackay Road Runners event commences 4pm from Bonson’s Scrub Road, The Leap, with carpooling very desirably requested at 3:30pm at Coningsby State School, Bruce Highway (near the servo) due to the limited space at the start line.  The course will take runners on an undulating and very challenging course from Bonson’s Road onto Ian Reddacliffe Drive and return (6km) with a repeat loop for the 12km course…bonus spectacular vistas from the pinnacle at no extra cost.  Runners are expected to be signed in with the registrar and timekeeper ten minutes before gun time so that volunteers can warm up for their own race and Race Director can present course description and any updates.  The timekeeper advises Members it is crucial to wear their timing chips and race numbers to secure their times via the electronic timing system. All non-members are most welcome to participate in any of the Club’s events for a small cost, although no formal time will be recorded on the Club results… however, non-members are warmly invited to join so that they can

Aug 27 2017

Mackay Road Runners annual Shields Stampede 5km & 12km is always a well attended and much anticipated event on the Road Runners Calendar. Hosts and Life Members, Merv & Wendy Shields are always so gracious and generous as they open up their home for runners to enjoy a great run and post run refreshments, especially Wendy’s yummy choc/marshmallow biscuits. Alan Zamparutti and Carmel Mahon were among several very satisfied taste testers on this occasion giving the bickies ten out of ten as they fought for the last one!

Mackay Road Runners were fortunate to have on hand seven out of eight of their Life Members at the event, Merv & Wendy Shields, Agnes Farmer, Paul & Janelle Tilse, Judy Zahn and Charlie Martel. Shawn Claydon was absent due to his participation in the Bridge to Brisbane 10km run over the same weekend. Shawn clocked a very impressive time of forty-five minutes 47 seconds to place fourth in his age category and well inside the top one hundred out of thousands of other runners.

Meanwhile, locally the Shields Stampede was a great success for approximately fifty runners tackling the testing 5km and 12km courses which included several serious hilly sections toward the back end of the 12km run. The 5km runners were spared the streets of Norris Rd, James Croker Drive and Annie Wood Avenue, however, they did encounter one testing hill (twice) at the junction of Norris and Beaconsfield Roads so they did not feel left out.

Benji Binney scorched over the 5km course in scintillating form to take out the event ahead of first female, Ashlee Scott (19:10) and Simba Walz (2nd male). Benji backed up extremely well after the Capricornia State Secondary School athletic championships the previous weekend in Emerald where he scored gold in the 1500 and 800 metres and a fourth placing in the 400 metres. His results easily qualify him for the State Titles in Brisbane in October. Tahlia Campbell, who claimed second female in the Shields 5km, also scored herself a berth at the State Titles with success in her pet events, the 1500 and 800 metres. In addition to the talented pair, Rachel Silvestri, won all her events in the Emerald competition, scoring selection in a multitude of events, as did Hayden Connor, Jamie Sanders and Layla Sanders. Unfortunately several runners who were selected to compete were unable to attend included but not limited to were Jamie Bornman, Paige Stolberg, Lauren Morgan, Will Morgan and Simba Walz.

The Shields Stampede scratch start 12km event was smashed by Carl Pinkstone who blitzed the course ahead of next best males, Tim Caddy, Anthony Blines, Iggy Janse Van Rensburg, Alan Zamparutti, David Isbister and Stuart Sprott. First female, Carmel Mahon, ran well to place ahead of a very fast finishing Alana Ford, Ashley Davies, Karla Hook, Judy Zahn, Jose Short, Carolyn Steginga, Vicki Vickers, June Bradley, Robyn Richards, Jo Hughes and Sarah Jensen. Congratulations to all runners across both events including Russell VanDenBosch, Colin Hardy, Cilla Martland, Jenene McLellan, Mark Walz, Ross Connor and Shane Barben. Bernadine McKinnon clocked a very well-paced thirty minutes on her return 5km run, despite missing the finishing shute. Charlie Martel has pretty well renounced his title after heading home with about ten runners left at the venue….Wendy Shields was definitely last to leave, however, not sure if that counts if she lives there!

Congratulations to Craig McGahey and Jo Skinner on the success of their first marathon (42.2km) at the Sunshine Coast the previous weekend, both clocking 3 hours 58 minutes in their first event attempt at this iconic distance. Both runners enjoyed the course and event and have recovered extremely well. Congratulations to the Cystic Fibrosis Run organisers for a fantastic event, where approximately six hundred runners/walkers competed in the 5km run and 5km doggie walk at Canelands Park. Well done to the many Mackay Road Runners who competed, then backed up for their Club event in the afternoon.

Great work y by our own race day volunteers Mark & Linda McFadzen, Jo Skinner, Lindsey Wiggins, Tim Magoffin, Andrew Short and Jose Short for their assistance as well as awesome hosts, Wendy & Merv Shields…..thank you!!!!!

This weekend’s run, as quoted by the Club President, Tim Magoffin, is the marquis ‘best day of the year’ event!!! The Mackay Road Runners pre Father’s Day Park Run 5km & 10km. The usual Park Run 5km run will be hosted by the Mackay Road Runners in affiliation with the usual awesome Park Run Volunteers and Mackay Road Runners volunteers, commencing at 7am from the Botanic Gardens Lagoon Street playground.

Aug 20 2017

Mackay Road Runners held one of its Signature and Club Championship events, the prestigious annual Magic Mile, from the beautiful precincts of the Mackay Marina.  Race Hosts, North Queensland Bulk Ports, were sponsors for the senior 1.6km event, also ensuring the Breakwater was closed for the setup and duration of the race which was a point to point course on the Breakwater. Podiatry Mackay’s Donald Orr, who is a major long term supporter of the Club’s junior events, was once again, the awesome sponsor for the under 13 & 18 junior races.  Donald was on hand to present the junior race prizes to the boys and girls together with, North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) General Manager Trade & Operations, Brendan Webb & Regional Stakeholder Ingagement Advisor, Emilie Pershouse who presented the senior winners’ prizes.  Mackay Road Runners 1992 race recordholder of four minutes 22 seconds, legendary local runner, Charlie Martel was a special guest at the iconic race presentation.  Charlie, who has just moved back to Mackay from several years hiatus in Brisbane, was not well enough to run today, however he and his children Miles and Kayde, were avid supporters of the runners.  Charlie retained his excellent form by being second last to leave the event, usually remembered as being last.  Charlie was keen to pass the baton to Ashlee Scott, however she was way too quick for him!

The Senior NQBP Mackay Road Runners Magic Mile was won by Julian Picot in a sensational time of four minutes 47 seconds ahead of fast finishing Daren Galea (5:15) with Ben Saxon only five seconds in deficit to claim the final podium placing.  Previous Magic Mile winner, Shawn Claydon settled on a fourth placing, seven seconds ahead of Mark McFadzen with first female Ashlee Scott a further three seconds back.  Ashlee’s exceptional form scored her victory for the girls in five minutes forty seconds even, one minute ahead of big improver, Carolyn Steginga (6:44) and Emma Goodman-Jones (6:48).  Other previous Magic Mile champions, Carmel Mahon was relegated to fourth by only one second with Judy Zahn fifth (7:04).  Outstanding performances were on show across all athletes in the extremely testing conditions which were very breezy to say the least – those included Scott McIntosh, Carl Pinkstone, Matt Graves, Tim Caddy, Anthony Blines, Mitchell Thompson, Andrew Wallace, Greame Harris,  Rowan Barratt,  Ross Vickers, Michael Barratt, Jose Short, David Isbister,  Alan Zamparutti, Stuart Sprott, Jenene McLennan and Dannelle Thompson. The coveted Magic Mile 1.5kg Milo prize was awarded to Cilla Martland for her excellent performance in the trying conditions…..home for a warm drink with marshmallows…YES!

The Podiatry Mackay Junior Magic Mile winners were ecstatic with their efforts and their prizes as presented by sponsor, Donald Orr. The under thirteen winner, Will Morgan was in sizzling form taking gold in the sixteen hundred metre race in five minutes 39 seconds. His performance should be a great confidence booster as he heads into competition this week in Emerald for the Secondary School Capricornia athletics trials.  Josh Bornman (5:31) held off Simba Walz (5:46) and Finn Zamparutti (5:57) to take maximum club championship points in the under 18 male section, whilst, Josh’s sister, Jamie equalled his placing, taking first ahead of Lauren Morgan. Under thirteen girls went to a talented trio consisting of Paige Stolberg, who was first out of the under 13 and under 18 girls and fifth overall junior, followed by sibling, Lara Stolberg and Jess Harris.

Many thanks once again to the race sponsors, NQBP and Podiatry Mackay, Mackay Road Runners race day volunteers, Tim Magoffin, Andrew Short, Brendan Bishop, Sandra Henderson, Jose Short and Mark Walz who were all integral in the success of the event.

Best wishes to the Club’s Junior runners travelling to Emerald this week for the Capricornia Secondary School Athletics Titles. Rachel Silvestri will be one of the talented crew competing after a very successful silver medal win as part of the Queensland Team at the National Cross Country Titles in Tasmania last week.

This Sunday’s Mackay Road Runners 5/12km event commences 4pm at Merv & Wendy’s residence at 21 Karl Langer Crescent, North Mackay.  The Club’s Life Members are very loyal and long standing Members and Sponsors of the Club, with both being awarded Life Membership several years ago. Merv & Wendy have hosted the annual race from their home for many years and is a much anticipated event, not necessarily for the running but for the post race refreshments that everyone is welcome to partake in.  All runners need to be registered by 3:50pm at the latest with timing chips and race bibs attached so that the computerised timing system can be readied for handicap start racing commencement at 4pm sharp.

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.