2017

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.

May 14 2017

Despite the cool, windy and rainy conditions last Saturday morning, Mackay Road Runners, had an outstanding turnout of over forty runners at the annual Casu Jacks Pre Mother’s Day 5/12km run from Casu Jacks Cafe, Mackay Marina.  As runners made their way towards Harbour Road, one ascent of Mt Bassett, of course, was included in both events, much to the delight of all runners…..not!   Casu Jacks hosts, Pauline and Gary were very much appreciated by the runners and supporters for their awesome post-race breakfasts available for purchase, as well as the Mother’s Day themed random draw prizes donated by Mackay Road Runners Club. The handicap start 5km and 12km races commenced from 6.30am in the pouring rain, which then made way for cold breezes in the mid to later stages of the races. The adverse conditions eased as the final runner crossed the line, leaving runners to relax with a hot breakfast/coffee, etc….. for the post run prize giving.

Excellent running saw Jo Skinner win the 5km handicap event followed closely by Hannah Morgan and Craig McGahey. New Club runner this year, Bill Morgan, once again, stepped up, cruising to the finish line in the 5km, one full minute ahead of school buddy from the seventies, Paul Tilse. Bill’s son, Will scorched over the course closing in fast to cross the line six seconds behind Paul.  Matthew Jurak and Hayden Connor followed in quick succession, with second female on handicap, Ashlee Scott, only two seconds behind Hayden. Veteran runner, Cilla Martland was next followed by talented junior, Jamie Sanders, Leanne Connor, Layla Sanders, Ricky Parker and Sandra Henderson. Ricky would most likely have finished higher in the field, however, as he asked “where’s the 5km turnaround”…..at 8km, he did a wee bit more than 5km!

The 12km event saw young, Finn Zamparutti, stoked to break the tape first on handicap ahead of a very fast finishing Brendan Ridgley and Stuart Sprott and even more excited to be ahead of 4th placed Alan Zamparutti.  Fastest female in the 12km, Alana Ford, was next and also the first female to finish on handicap, followed by Jo Hughes, Lindsey Wiggins, Karla Hook, June Bradley and Scott McIntosh rounding out the top ten. Excellent performances were also on show by Martin Lambert, Andrew Short, Simon Henderson, Luke Schatkowski, Jan Smith, Judy Zahn, Vicki Vickers and Karen Low.

Many thanks once again to the race set up gang of Andrew Short and Tim Magoffin, both sensational once again, organising the course markers in the pouring rain. Soaking wet, Andrew,  then fronting up to race the 12km event, with Tim putting on his Race Director hat to advise runners of the course description, upcoming events and latest Mackay Road Runners news. Timekeepers, Millie Bishop, Brendan Bishop and Ashley Davies were super-efficient as usual, basing themselves in a tent, safe from the weather elements to record all Members’ times for Brendan to collate and upload later in the day. Thank you…… the runners are so appreciative for their assistance week in, week out!

This Sunday’s run is another super testing event from the Mackay Harbour New Mulherin Park (southern end), with distances of 5km & 11km and racing to commence 4pm sharp! Runners are reminded once again to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to racing so they can check in with the Registrar as registration will close strictly 10 minutes before the gun.  With the new computerised chip timing system, the laptop must be closed off at that time, so that the handicapper/timekeepers can set up for the start and Race Director to advise race briefing.  All runners must adhere to the Race Director’s instructions for their own safety as well as the Club’s liability guidelines.

The BMA Mackay Marina Run is less than three weeks away!  Go online NOW to register for your event as well as the Friday evening meet and greet with Race Ambassadors, Olympians, Benita Willis and Steve Moneghetti at the Ibis Motel, Mackay Airport.  The committee are very excited with the progress of the event, so don’t be disappointed, nominate now, don’t miss out on the largest regional running festival as co-ordinated by the Mackay Road Runners and the local branch of the Leukaemia Foundation.

May 7 2017

The  Alarm Guys were the awesome hosts of the annual Mackay Road Runners 5km & 30km Club Championship race last Sunday morning.  The 6am start’s cool conditions were perfect for running, as the sun rose and hid behind the clouds for most of the event. Over forty runners tested themselves with outstanding results across two events via the undulating course which took runners from the Bishop’s residence in Vassallo Dr towards the beautiful country suburbs of Rural View, Farleigh, Habana and return.

Jamie Sanders had a great race, taking gold in the 5km, mere seconds ahead of Carl Pinkstone and Matt Graves. Good friends, Simba Walz and Finn Zamparutti were fourth and fifth consecutively, finishing less than once second between them. Peter Wright and Simon Henderson ran well to sneak under twenty-five minutes followed closely by Mark Walz (25:37) and Alan Zamparutti (25:40).  In the female 5km event, Ashlee Scott continued her winning ways with a sensational 18 minutes 59 seconds, one of only three to clock under nineteen minutes. Rachel Silvestri was once again impressive, crossing the line a minute later, racing well in the lead up to local secondary school cross country representation the next day. Jo Skinner scored the final podium position ahead of Jose Short, Ulrika Widdowson, Cilla Martland and Leanne Connor.

After the 5km run, Ulrika and Jose then charged out to assist 30km runners, with Ulrika cycling the course and Jose assisting Jo Hughes at several water aid stops. Many thanks to them as well as Stuart Sprott, Linda McFadzen, Ross Vickers, Ange Furdek and June Bradley. A special thank you to Andrew Short and Tim Magoffin who were up very early attending to the course set up, with Andrew then totalled warmed up to sprint the 30km run.

In the 30km event, Mark McFadzen took out maximum open and age category Club Championship points, beating a quality field to cross the line in 2 hours 15 minutes and 44 seconds ahead of Greg O’Neill (2:20:20), Darren Binstead (2:28:19) and Jared Spence (2:28:20). Leon Ryan was impressive finishing just under 2 hours 30 minutes, with Tim Caddy and Wayne McMurtrie just seconds over the 150 minute mark. Carmel Mahon (2:31:50) was also outstanding, declaring her intentions early, setting the pace and retaining her lead, taking gold ahead of Ashley Davies (2:47:01) and training buddy, Karla Hook (2:52:38). Returning to form, Vicki Vickers (2:58:40) was fourth followed by talented veteran, Judy Zahn (3:02:34), Linda Wetherall (3:04:57) and Anna Walsh (3:12:40). Sarah Jensen’s recent training kept her in good stead for her first 30km run, smashing the course, marginally ahead of Chris Webb, Bec Baird and Janine Bella. Ultra-marathon runner, Brianna Mouat was next, just minutes ahead of sensational over sixties runner, Carol Brown. A worthy mention should go to seventy-one year old David Isbister, who clocked an impressive 3 hours 31 minutes!

Young entrepreneurs of the The Icy Cup Guys, Millie and Hughie Bishop were excellent hosts and generous fundraising representatives with their assistants, Brendan and Julie Bishop, donating funds from the sale of their famous Icy Cups, tea/coffee and BBQ to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, who are a national book industry charity, which aims to reduce the disadvantage experienced by children in remote Indigenous communities across Australia, by lifting literacy levels and instilling a lifelong love of reading….well done guys….many thanks for getting up early and allowing runners to take over your house, garage and pool!

Mackay Road Runners remind runners this weekend’s run is on SATURDAY morning – The 5/12km Casu Jacks pre Mothers’ Day run commencing 6.30am from Casu Jacks Cafe, Mackay Marina.  Runners and supporters are welcome to stay post run for brekky and random draw prizes……all welcome, especially if you haven’t bought your ‘special’ present for Sunday’s most special day of the year!