2017

Apr 30 2017

Approximately thirty Mackay Road Runners competed in the very social “Nominate your Time” 5/10km event last Sunday which commenced 4pm from the Lagoons Botanic Gardens Playground.  Club Captain Jim Ford and Volunteer Co-ordinator, Paul Tilse were in charge of recording runners’ guesstimated times and collecting their timing devices.  Runners then had to run their event watch-free and cross the finish line in a time as close as possible to their nominated time.

In the 5km, winner, Bill Morgan’s time was perfectly outstanding as he ran his time to the exact second. His twenty-three minute fifty second time was amazingly spot on, however, this pacing business must be a family trait, as his son Will, collected second prize for being the next closest to his predicted time. Both runners were ecstatic with their ‘tick tock’ and ‘time-out’ prizes, with Will gladly taking responsibility of getting them home in one piece….yeah right!

In the 10km event, Scott McIntosh was exceptional with his timing as well, being only three seconds off his pre-nominated time, therefore taking home the fabulous ‘tick tock’ bickies award.  Second place was almost sealed by Anthony Blines with a ten second differential, however, the final runner, David Isbister, scored a nine second difference to his guess, snatching the ‘time-out’ prize almost literally out of Anthony’s hands.  Being the congenial, sharing and caring person he is, David was happy to share his prize with Anthony as they happily devoured the prize in a time much less than their 9/10 second race deficits….well done guys!

The fastest runners on the day belonged to Ashleigh Davies and Lindsey Wiggins in the 10km and Ashlee Scott and Will Morgan in the 5km with credible efforts also from Indiana Brough, Joshua Bornman, Maddie Price, Danielle Brough, Rawley Brough, Jamie Bornman, Ross Vickers, Judy Zahn, Rachel Silvestri, Vicki Vickers, Cilla Martland, Jan Smith, Jo Hughes, Kim Saron, Luke Schatkowski, Peter Wright, Matt Jurak, Leanne Connor, Simon Henderson, Karla Hook and Carmel Mahon.

Meanwhile, in overseas running news, The Stamford Financial Hamilton Island Hilly Marathon was run and won on the beautiful amended course at Dent Island. Hamilton Island’s Race Director and Events Co-ordinator, Steve Jackson, was once again sensational in organising (and reorganising) the total event with a bevy of wonderful volunteers……Congratulations, Steve, on a wonderful event, outstanding once again despite Cyclone Debbie’s spiteful efforts!  The winner of the Half Marathon was local Mackay runner, Carl Pinkstone, notching a sensational win in one hour thirty-two seconds over super credentialed runners, Townsville’s Sam Stedman (1:34:27) and Race Ambassador, Steve Moneghetti (1:35:41).  Carl’s awesome efforts were nothing short of spectacular as he blitzed the Dent Island course in sizzling fashion. Carl was one of many local runners who supported the 11th anniversary of this event, including Wayne McMurtrie (5th) and race sponsor, Martin Lambert (7th) in the Marathon.  There was a record number of Individuals and teams in the half marathon which included local fitness groups, Esafe Fitness, Triactiv8 and Step into Life. Mackay Road Runners half marathon individual runners, Greame Harris, Darren Binstead, Leon Ryan, Andrew Short, Andrew Wallace, Jose Short, Kristian Safe, Emily Wicks, Jo Skinner, Glenn Stephens, Janine Bella, June Bradley, Karen Low, Jenny Harmer, Di Clulee, Bernadine McKinnon and Ulrika Widdowson thoroughly enjoyed the Hamilton Island event and hospitality as did junior runners, Jackson Harris (3km) and Axel Safe (500 metres) and Charlee Binstead (500 metres).

The next Mackay Road Runners event will be held this Sunday from 39 Vassallo Drive, Glenella at 6am.  The 30km and 5km Club Championship event will be hosted by the Bishop Family with the usual treats on offer.  The Icey Cup Guys, Milly and Hughie, have stepped up once again, however, their stock will feature two flavours this year at fifty cents each.  The Bishops will also be supplying a BBQ breakfast, tea and coffee with donations to The Indigenous Literacy Foundation who are a national book industry charity, which aims to reduce the disadvantages experienced by children in remote Indigenous communities across Australia, by lifting literacy levels and instilling a lifelong love of reading.  Mackay Road Runners appreciate the Bishop’s awesome generosity therefore, please support their wonderful time and efforts in staging the event from their house as well as offering delicious treats for a worthy cause……thankyou Millie, Hughie, Julie and Brendan!

The BMA Mackay Marina Run in only one month away!!!!! With early nominations closing on 30th April, registrations are still open, however your race singlet/shirt size is now not guaranteed.  Go online now to secure your race spot as well as booking in for the Friday Night pre-race social event with Race Ambassadors,

Apr 23 2017

Approximately thirty runners braved the legendary annual Farmers 6km & 17km Long Gallop which was held last Sunday morning in the teaming, sporadic rain from the residence of Mackay Road Runners’ Life Member, Agnes Farmer.

Mackay Road Runners Club President, Tim Magoffin welcomed approximately forty runners and supporters as he described the very technical course which took runners from the North Mackay suburban streets through Slade Point and Andergrove, back to the start via the beautiful Gooseponds parklands.

In the 6km race, the fastest time went to speedy Ashlee Scott in twenty-three minutes fifty-three seconds, only minutes ahead of Shelley Binney (29:05) and Lauren Morgan (29:10). The 6km male section was taken out by talented junior runner, Benji Binney (23:58), Matthew Smith (27:09) and Anthony Blines (29:14).  The top ten handicapped placings as they crossed the line went to Matthew Smith, Anthony Blines, Benji Binney, Lauren Morgan, Bill Morgan, Ashlee Scott, Shelley Binney, Cilla Martland, Brendan Bishop and Sandra Henderson.

In the 17km race, runners had to face several challenges other than the heavy raindrops including undulations of Harbour and Slade Point Roads with a relatively flat middle section through Andergrove before the testing hills of Norris Road onto Malcomson Street and the Gooseponds to the finish line, where the handicapped winner was eventually Craig McGahey, over second placed Jo Skinner, with Matt Graves snatching the bronze medal from Alana Ford by a mere ten seconds. The fastest top ten 17km times were clocked by Mark McFadzen (1:13:51), Greg Neill (1:14:44), Craig McGahey (1:19:07), Mitchell Thompson (1:19:47); Alana Ford (1:21:08); Ricky Parker (1:21:09);  Leon Ryan (1:22:18); Michael Feenaghty (1:22:51); Matt Graves (1:23:14) and Ashley Davies (1:25:25). There were some excellent performances across the very strong field, including Andrew Short, Karla Hook, Vicki Vickers, James Wortley, Jo Skinner, June Bradley, Judy Zahn, Peter Wright, Robyn Madill, Emma Goodman-Jones, David Isbister, Brenda Windsor, Stuart Sprott and Luke Schatkowski.

Many thanks to Agnes and her neighbour, Denise’s hospitality so very early on Sunday morning as well as course setup/briefing, Andrew Short and Tim Magoffin, race day volunteers, Brendan Bishop, Lindsey Wiggins, Carmel Mahon, Sandra Henderson, Jose Short, Jared Spence and Ross Vickers.

Endurance running enthusiasts are now looking forward to this weekend’s Stamford Financial Hamilton Island Hilly Marathon which will be held on Sunday morning on an amended course on the spectacular Dent Island.  Get ready for a massive day of awesomely breathtaking vistas and testing undulations on the internationally renowned Dent Island Golf course. Check out the Hamilton Island accommodation specials on line for participants and their families!

In the meantime, locally, whilst the Hamilton/Dent Island event will be all done and dusted, Mackay Road Runners will hold a social 5km/10km Lagoons Scurry ‘nominate your time’ race this Sunday at 4pm at the playground end of the Lagoons Botanic Gardens (T-junction of Lagoon and Jackson Streets, West Mackay).

Also, DO NOT  forget to register online asap for the BMA Mackay Marina Run for your choice of events from 3km to 21.1km or volunteer your time to help out on race day…..all welcome!

Apr 16 2017

Zambreros in the Mackay City Centre were the awesome hosts of the Mackay Road Runners Zambreros Burrito Bolt held Easter Sunday at 4.30pm. Over forty runners and supporters converged on the popular restaurant to firstly, tackle their respective events, a very social 5km or 10km, then enjoy the post run hospitality and comradery offered by Proprietor Peter Quinn and his fabulous staff.  The weather conditions were perfect for a walk or run from Zambreros towards the Bluewater Trail and beyond depending on race options.  Mackay Road Runners Club Captain, Jim Ford thanked Peter and his wonderful staff for allowing the Club the privilege of holding the event and for the excellent refreshing free post run slushies…..very much appreciated!

Mackay Road Runners welcomed out of town athletes from Yeppoon (Terri Fallis) and Brisbane (Megan Ross) amongst the many locals competing in the social 5km & 10km events which took runners from Zambreros onto the beautiful Bluewater Trail to the Ron Camm Bridge where the 5km competitors turned for home and the Landsdowne Road/Botanic Gardens Roundabout turnaround for the 10km runners.  Talented runners, Wayne McMurtrie and Alana Ford were first male and female to cross the line in the 10km, with speedy youngsters, Benji Binney and Maddy Price first in the 5km.

Meanwhile, the rest of the field who performed extremely well included Derek & Sammy Woods, Craig McGahey, Jo Hughes, Julie Bishop, John Rodden, Jose Short, Robyn Madill, Andrew Short, Jenny Smith, Cilla Martland, Peter Wright, Ashley Davies, Martin Lambert, Mark McFadzen, Tim Caddy, Indiana Brough, Jamie Bornman, Leon Ryan, Karla Hook, Matthew Smith, Daniel Stampa, Carmel Mahon, Vicki Vickers, Adam Knesevic, Paul Tilse, Ross Vickers, Carolyn Steginga, Shelley Binney, Brenda Windsor, Simon Henderson, Sandra Henderson and Peter Ford.

Mackay Road Runners next weekly event will be this Sunday morning from 62 Evans Avenue, North Mackay starting 6.30am. Mackay Road Runners Life Member, Agnes Farmer is the delightful host of the long standing annual event, The Farmers Long Gallop, which includes a 5km and 17km run from her residence. Runners are reminded to arrive at least thirty minutes prior to race start with their numbers and timing chips attached.  Members are requested to check the race day volunteer list online mackayroadrunners.com.au to ensure the success of this and future weekly events…..many thanks to you! Runners and their supporters are very welcome to stay for the post run refreshments.

The BMA Mackay Marina Run is approximately six weeks away, check out mackaymarinarun.com for all the details regarding registration and the ‘not to be missed’ inaugural Friday evening event where running legends and BMA Mackay Marina Run Race Ambassadors, Steve Moneghetti and Benita Willis will be in attendance. The 2017 BMA Mackay Marina Run is expected to be one of the best in its ten year history…..do not miss being part of the region’s largest and most successful running festival!

The Stamford Financial Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon is ON!!!!!!!!!!!!  Hamilton Island Race Director, Steve Jackson and major sponsor, Stamford Financial’s Martin Lambert confirmed the Island and the run is open for business……go on line now to register and support one of the best organised and most enjoyable trail running events in the World.  Unfortunately, the usual course will be altered to accommodate the damages done by Cyclone Debbie, however, Steve has promised the same ‘wow’ factor will be on show as usual.  This is an event and location not to be missed, please support them.

Apr 9 2017

Last Sunday afternoon, the Mackay Road Runners Rural View 5/10km event was a very challenging affair with approximately fifty runners meandering through the undulating Rural View suburban streets towards the treacherous Lookout Loop.  The race start had all Members starting on their official handicap, therefore, with the staggered start, all runners had the opportunity to chase down runners as opposed to a scratch start where all runners start as one.

Handicap 10km winner, Jared Spence ran extremely well, covering the course in an exceptional time, as did Greame Harris, Shawn Claydon, Ricky Parker, Stephen Oberg, Derek Woods, Andrew Wallace, Russell Vandenbosch, Merv Shields, Stuart Sprott, Shane Barben, Mark Walz, Michael Feenaghty, Charlie Bone, Matthew Jurak, Josh Eisemann, Calvin Franklin, Matt Graves, Simon Henderson and Peter Ford. Speedy, Ashley Davies was the first female runner to cross the line based on her handicap start ahead of fast finishing Jo Hughes, Bernadine McKinnon, Alana Ford,  Sarah Jensen, Carmel Mahon, Karla Hook, Ulrika  Widdowson, Jan Smith, Vicki Vickers and Julie Whibley.

Junior runners in the 5km, Jamie Sanders, Joshua Bornman, Will Morgan, Matthew Smith, Benjamin Binney, Jamie Bornman, Lauren Morgan, Maddy Price, Hannah Morgan, Rachel Silvestri and Layla Sanders placed highly in a handicap start against their more experienced senior counterparts, Paul Tilse, Bill Morgan, Sandra Henderson, Leanne Connor, Ashlee Scott, Jenene McLellan, Peter Wright, Colin Hardy, Carolyn Steginga, Daniel Stampa, Cilla Martland and Emma Crozier.

Club President, Tim Magoffin and son Matthew, did a great job setting up the course as well as undertaking the timekeeping duties, whilst Anthony Blines and Scott McIntosh were the awesome volunteer race day course marshals, Simon and Sandra Henderson on Registrar duty and Bernadine McKinnon & Ulrika Widdowson on merchandising.

Runners are now focussing on the annual social 5/10k Zambreros Burrito Bolt on Easter Sunday at 4.30pm from the Zambreros restaurant, cnr Gregory & Gordon Streets, Mackay City Centre. Runners and their supporters are most welcome to stay post-race for refreshments for purchase from the awesome licensed Zambreros restaurant.

In interstate news, Moranbah Runner, Gary Jenkinson raced the Canberra Marathon in very cool conditions. Gary’s time of 3hrs 47 minutes was not his personal best time, however, although disappointed, he has notched yet another marathon to his already loaded belt of Australian and international marathons. Local runners Martin Lambert, Jose & Andrew Short, June Bradley, Mark Takagaki and Karen Lowe travelled to Tasmanian for several days of scaling the many heights of a multitude of trails in the beautiful Apple Isle of mountainous Tasmania. The crew joined experienced World Mountain, trail and ultra running champion, Hanny Allston as well as Graham Hammond from Find your Feet running tours who led the locals on a very unique experience.

NOTE: The committee of the BMA Mackay Marina Run on 4th June advise early bird nominations have been extended, therefore, if you have not nominated in an event, jump on line NOW www.mackaymarinarun.com – don’t miss the opportunity to meet Race Ambassadors, Mackay Olympian, Benita Willis and Victorian Olympian Steve Moneghetti as well as challenge yourself in a multitude of event options, including 3km, 5km, 5km Corporate Challenge, 8km and 21.1km.  Funds raised via the 5km Corporate Challenge will all go to the Mackay Branch of the Leukaemia Foundation.

Apr 2 26 2017

Due to the unrelenting and dangerous effects of Tropical Cyclone Debbie, the Mackay Road Runners designated race, The Eungella Half Marathon Trail run had to be postponed to a date to be confirmed later in the year.  Race Director, Matt Stevens and his Team made the tough but only decision they could based on the safety of all participants and volunteers. Many thanks to all for their understanding and patience at this time, however, once a date has been confirmed all entrants will be informed, therefore, watch this space, Facebook and the Mackay Road Runners site for updates.

Due to the much improved monsoonal weather conditions, in lieu of the Eungella event, Club Captain, Jim Ford notified Members of a 5/10km social run from the Bluewater Quay at 5pm last Sunday.  Jim’s concept of involving everyone, fast or slow, was once again very impressive, where he organised teams with a balance of abilities. Teams were split with one half running East along the Sandfly Creek pathway and the other half heading over The Forgan Smith Bridge. Runners then met back at the start before crossing over to do their share in the other direction with the winner being the whole Team who arrived at the finish line first.

A talented team including Jenene McLellan, Russell VandenBosch, Jarred Spence, Jamie and Layla Sanders were first, clearly impressed with their coveted prizes from Jim’s secret stash of social event trophies.  The best looking team consisting of Carmel Mahon, Caroline Steginga, Brenda Windsor ad Sarah Jensen were also the fifth runners up, however, unfortunately there was no prizes other than their adulation of each other’s awesome supportive efforts…..congratulations Girls!

There was also some other outstanding efforts, including Josh Eisemann, Norm Dawes, Stephen Oberg, Martin Lambert, Andrew Wallace, Ashlee Scott, Simon Henderson, Charlie Bone, Lauren Morgan, Shawn Claydon, June Bradley, Mark Takagaki and Hannah Morgan…..with a notable mention to Anthony Blines for his sensational gigantic leap mid race…..very talented!

Runners are now looking forward to this Sunday’s challenging 5/10km Rural View Run commencing 4.30pm from McCready Street, opposite the Northern Beaches Bowls Club. Runners are requested to arrive at least half an hour before gun time and park on the Northern Beaches Bowls Club side so as not to crowd McCready Street residents’ access, with extra care taken crossing the very busy road to the start line. Runners are reminded to lace their timing chips on their shoes and wear their race number on the front of themselves.  Registration for the race is strictly cut off  at 10 minutes prior to racing so that a course briefing and any questions can be addressed.

Meanwhile, over the past week, ex Mackay junior runners, Jade Bidgood, Josiah McCarthy and Mitchell Kelly competed at the  2017 Australian Athletics Championships at Sydney Olympic Park with very successful personal results. In the under twenty 400 metres, Josiah clocked 51 minutes 80 seconds and finished 7th in his heat. Josiah finished sixth in the 800 metres heats (1:57:78), with Jade (1:57:18 – 6th) in his heat) and Mitchell Kelly (2:01:24 – 7th in his heat). Jade also ran the 1500 metres (4:05:38 – 6th in his heat). Mitch had to withdraw from the 5000 metres at the very last minute in the Call Room due to a chest infection he had been battling and therefore, did not get to compete in his pet event. Unfortunately, all boys missed the finals but recorded great times and were excellent representatives for their state.

Mar 26 2017

The looming Cyclone Debbie did not deter approximately fifty runners from competing in last Sunday’s second Mackay Road Runners Club Championship event, which included hilly undulations around the coastal suburbs of Slade Point and Lamberts Beach, with a small portion of Andergrove in the middle.

Outstanding local runner, Ashlee Scott blitzed the entire field in her first 16km race to place outright first last Sunday morning from Magoffin’s Slade Point residence.  Ashlee has been in superb form, looking sensational from the gun to the finish line, breaking the tape in an awesome time ahead of speedy male competitors, Mark McFadzen, Daren Galea and Greg O’Neill. Carmel Mahon took silver ahead of fast finishing Jose’ Short to round out the final Senior Open club championship points placings. Rachel Silvestri and Jamie Sanders proved themselves, once again to be classy finishers, both claiming gold in the male and female Junior 5km Club Championship ahead of Will Morgan, Lauren Morgan and Hannah Morgan. Bill Morgan set a great pace, leaving the only Morgan left, Diane, happy to be cheerleader for her family.

There were many excellent performances from new runners, including Brendan Keates and Jonathon Jenner, as well as more experienced runners, Judy Zahn, Leon Ryan, Martin Lambert, Emma Goodman-Jones, Pamela Houston, Jo Hughes, Julie Bishop, Tim Caddy, Darren Binstead, Stephen Oberg, June Bradley, Simon Henderson, Greame Harris, Leanne Connor, Sandra Henderson, June Bradley, Karlee Hayden pushing the running pram with one year old Zane, Charlie Bone, Michael Feenaghty, Robyn Madill, Jo Skinner, Andrew Short, Jarred Spence, Ryan Palazzi, Sarah Jensen, Craig McGahey, Melissa Harris, Vicki Vickers, Shane Barben, Karen Lowe, Kristian Safe, Anna Howell, Stuart Sprott, Ross Connor, Bernadine McKinnon, Merv Shields and Brenda Windsor.

Many thanks to race day set up crew, timekeepers, water stop, etc including Russell VandenBosch, Brendan Bishop, Tim Magoffin, Andrew Short, Suzie Silvestri, Rachel Silvestri, Linda McFadzen and awesome Leukaemia Foundation representatives, Barry & Christine Comben who flipped his unique annual Bacon & Egg Magoffins to perfection on the barbie.  Many thanks to Tim and his family for the use of his awesome pool area and BBQ for which a donation to the Leukaemia Foundation was the only request.

This Sunday’s annual Eungella Half Marathon Trail Run will definitely be a muddy, leachy affair, therefore, all runners are warned to prepare as best they can.  There will also be the usual coveted award for ‘The Most Muddy’ on offer and as the winner over the past two years, Glenn Baker has left town, the competition will be wide open to whomever can arrive at the finish line the filthiest, which should be an easy achievement this year, therefore, a tough decision for the judges.  Presentations will be held post-race in the dining area at the Eungella Chalet, therefore runners and their supporters can purchase refreshments from the bar area. Please note that nominations for the event have closed, therefore, to ease congestion for the volunteers, runners are urged to please arrive at least half an hour before the 8am start as there will be approximately ninety runners collecting their race bag/numbers.  Racing will commence 8am sharp… race numbers are to be secured to the front of yourself (not at the back) so that it is very clear for the timekeepers and ease of results preparation.  Many thanks to race Director, Matt Stevens and his awesome team of volunteers and sponsors…. please thank them, as this is a huge race with many difficult logistics to organise.

Mar 19 2017

The Mackay Road Runners 5/13km Kmart Loop attracted nearly sixty runners, gathering at the Gordon White Library Carpark last Sunday at 5pm in threateningly stormy conditions.  President Tim Magoffin briefed the eager runners on the very technical Mt Pleasant course which included many twists and turns, including the testing ascent of High Street and treacherous descent of Pollock Street.

In the 5km event, seventeen year old Jamie Sanders was exceptional taking gold ahead of talented sprint Queens Ashlee Scott and Rachel Silvestri, followed by outstanding youngster, Will Morgan.  Lauren Morgan, Ryan Barben, Hannah Morgan, Hayden Connor and Leon Barben also performed well in the steamy conditions.

In the 13km race, Carl Pinkstone ran extremely well to lead the field ahead of Shawn Claydon, Mitchell Thompson, Jared Spence, Craig McGahey, Scott McIntosh, Alan Zamparutti, Andrew Short, Michael Feenaghty, Anthony Blines, Simon Henderson, Tim Caddy, Charlie Bone, Paul Arvidson and Ross Vickers. Craig and Tim have been in top form of late with both recording personal best times at the recent 5km Club Championship. Alana Ford was in sprint mode from the gun, taking out the 13km female event ahead of talented rivals, Ashley Davies, Carmel Mahon, Jose Short, Karla Hook, Judy Zahn, Sarah Jensen and Jo Skinner.

Many thanks once again to our valued weekly and race day volunteers for their awesome efforts:- Tim Magoffin, Andrew Short, Cilla Martland, Stephen Oberg, Daniel Stampa and Paul Tilse…..they deserve our wholehearted appreciation so that members can do what we all love…..please say thank you often!

Runners are now looking forward to the second Club Championship event on the 2017 program, the 5km Junior and 16km Senior Slade Point Pub to Pub commencing 6am this Sunday from 367 Slade Point Road. The widely anticipated Blue Ribbon Event will have its usual delicious Bacon and Egg Magoffins on offer as well as a post-race dip in the pool for a gold coin donation towards the Mackay Branch of the Leukaemia Foundation. Runners are requested to arrive at least thirty minutes prior to the scratch start with registration closing ten minutes before gun time for a strict 6am start.  Many thanks to the Magoffins for hosting the event as they are in the middle of moving house, so it would be appreciated if the usual major consideration is given to Tim, Sandra, kiddies and Dougie for allowing us the use of their residence at this very busy time.

Runners are advised nominations for the Eungella Trail Run Half Marathon event on 2nd April are closing soon, therefore with no registrations taken on the day, runners are advised to go online ASAP to register. The event commences 8am from the beautiful precincts of the Eungella Chalet with presentations and refreshments for purchase pre/post-race in their dining area.  Many thanks to Sponsors, Race Director, Matt Stevens and his awesome team for organising the unique event.

Mar 12 2017

Mackay Road Runners Ocean International Canter 5/8km was held in warm, breezy conditions from the parklands precincts at the beach end of Bridge Road.  Approximately sixty runners enjoyed the first handicapped start race of the year, which was held  at 5pm last Sunday from the Far Beach Esplanade to the Town Beach Sandfly Creek pathway via the East Mackay residential streets and return.  President, Tim Magoffin explained the course and new computerised timing system before sending all runners off on their individual handicap start times. In a perfect World, the handicap start is a great way for runners of all abilities to have the opportunity to run at the front of the pack or chase down the rest of the field in a bid to all cross the finish line at the same time, however, this is rarely the case, depending on how individual athletes are performing on that particular day.  The handicap system is also a great way for runners to improve their times by trying to keep ahead of the faster runners for as long as they can and vice versa, the faster runners have the opportunity to chase down the field instead of usually being ahead of them.  Runners’ handicaps will be adjusted throughout the year to allow for more even racing as runners consistently show improvement or drop off their pace.

New junior runner to the Club, Benjamin Binney was impressive in his first 5km handicap race, breaking the tape first ahead of a quality field of more experienced junior and senior runners. Benji is a quality athlete in various other sports including representative soccer where fast running is also crucial skill. He was in great company with other talented male juniors, including Will Morgan, Matthew Smith, Finn Zamparutti, Leo Walz, Hayden Connor, Simba Walz and Leon Barben.  Female juniors were also sensational with another new runner, Maddie Price slicing through the field in great style ahead of Rachel Silvestri and Lauren Morgan based on handicap start.

As with the 5km handicap start, Tim Magoffin and Matthew Magoffin were in awesome control of the new timing system, announcing the 8km runners to the start line to commence their race based on their handicap times.  With many new runners in the field, Handicapper, Shawn Claydon will be adjusting the handicaps as the season progresses, however today’s winner over the 8km was Matt Graves marginally ahead of Jared Spence and big improver, junior runner, Ryan Barben. Male competitors who performed extremely well in the warm conditions were Martin Lambert, Alan Zamparutti, Charlie Bone, Mark Walz, Russell VandenBosch, Scott McIntosh, Simon Henderson, Andrew Wallace, John Rodden, Norm Dawes, Shane Barben, Stephen Oberg, Rosss Vickers, Andrew Short, Leon Ryan, David Isbister and Stuart Sprott. The first female based on handicap was talented Ashley Davies followed by Alana Ford and Sarah Jensen who were ahead of a bevy of talented runners including Shelley Binney, Jose Short, June Bradley, Carmel Mahon, Karla Hook, Ashlee Scott, Vicki Vickers, Pamela Houston, Bernadine McKinnon, Jan Smith and Brenda Windsor.

The final formal results including actual race times, handicap times and placings will be on the website as soon as final processing of the results can be completed.

Many thanks as usual to the awesome race day team of volunteers including race setup/pack up, handicapper, timekeeping, registrars, etc….. Runners are reminded to still wear their race # bibs on the front of their shirts and most importantly wear their timing chip laced to their shoe so that timing can be accurately recorded as they cross the finishing mat.

This Sunday’s Kmart Loop scratch start 5km & 13km will commence from the Gordon White Library carpark with race day registration strictly cut off 10 minutes prior to the 5pm gun time. Members are requested to check the Club Calendar on the website to see if/when they are rostered on as the Volunteer List has now been updated and also emailed to Members. The Club appreciates and thanks you for your assistance.

Mar 5 2017

Approximately seventy runners braved the very warm, humid and breezeless conditions for the first Club Championship race on the Mackay Road Runners Program.  The 5km senior and junior Club Championship event commenced at 5pm from the Queens Park Rotunda, Goldsmith Street, with the course taking in the Town Beach Esplanade and East Mackay residential precincts, including Hoey and Dalrymple Streets before linking up briefly with The Esplanade into East Gordon Street for the final 1.5km stretch back into the Queens Park start/finish line.

Many talented junior and senior runners ran extremely well in the oppressively stifling afternoon heat, with Julian Picot taking gold and maximum Open Club Championship points ahead of first Junior and second overall, Jamie Sanders.  Shane Ward snatched third place from previous 5km Club Championship winner, Shawn Claydon, however Shawn still collects third place in the open senior Club Championship category. Other male competitors to dominate were Ryan Palazzi, Carl Pinkstone, Daren Galea, Hayden Connor, Lindsey Wiggins, Tim Caddy, Scott McIntosh, Mark McFadzen, Stephen Oberg, Greame Harris, Anthony Blines, Andrew Short and Ross Vickers.

The female section was tightly contested affair, with in form Ashlee Scott taking the win ahead of exciting junior talent, Rachel Silvestri and the unassuming quiet achiever, Ashley Davies (3rd).  Rachel took maximum Junior Club Championship points allowing fourth placed, Alana Ford to collect the final points available in the Open Senior Club Championship category.  Awesome running by the girls, including Layla Sanders, Caroline Steginga, Jose Short, Robyn Madill, Emma Goodman-Jones, Carmel Mahon, Karla Hook, Jo Hughes, Jo Skinner, Jan Smith, Sarah Jensen, Kim Saron and Cilla Martland.

A big welcome to all the new runners including Mitchell Thompson’s 27 weeks pregnant wife, who easily completed the 5km in a great time. All runners need to be congratulated on their performances in the testing conditions, however, they were well rewarded post-race with the chance to randomly win one of twelve $25 Amart Sports Vouchers.  Members, their family and friends are reminded to visit Amart Sports and nominate Mackay Road Runners as their preferred Kickstart Club so we can accrue points which in return rewards us with an instore credit.  The Club utilises the credit to purchase vouchers for random draw prizes at various races throughout the year, thus giving back to the Club’s Members/volunteers.

Many thanks to the Club’s awesome race day volunteers – Timekeepers: Tim Magoffin, Ange Furdek and Julie Whibley; Registrars: Karen Low, Sandra Henderson; Merchandising: Bernadine McKinnon, Jose Short and Jess Harris; race setup/pack up: Andrew Short and Tim Magoffin; Results co-ordinator: Brendan Bishop and Handicapper, Shawn Claydon.

Congratulations to the BMA Mackay Marina Run’s very successful 5km Twilight Launch run last Friday night which raised $3,200 for The Leukaemia Foundation.  Thank you to all who attended and volunteered in any way…..this is a great fundraising start towards the region’s most popular and inclusive running festival which will be held on 4th June from the beautiful Mackay Marina precincts. The volunteer organising committee and sponsors are working extremely hard to promote the Event so The Leukaemia Foundation can attain much needed funds for their worthy cause.  The Mackay Branch of The Leukaemia Foundation and The Mackay Road Runners Club are the driving forces behind the Event, supported by many valuable major and minor sponsors with its ultimate focus being fundraising as well as improving health and fitness and enjoyment of the beautiful Mackay area and surrounding region.

This Sunday’s Mackay Road Runner’s 5km/8km weekly event commences 5pm from Quota Park at the Beach end of Bridge Road, East Mackay near The Ocean International Hotel.  Please note to register online as a member ASAP so that you can have your own numbered/personalised computerised timing chip formally recording your race time.  Please ensure that you arrive at least thirty minutes prior to race start, wear your race number on the FRONT of your shirt and check in with the Timekeepers.  Runners are urgently reminded to hydrate very well before and after any training or racing event, especially in the current weather conditions.

Feb 27 2017

Approximately eighty runners and their families supported the much anticipated annual 5km & 10km Tilse Toddle event from the West Mackay residential suburb last Sunday afternoon.  Conditions were extremely humid despite the slight breezes which were only fully appreciated upon the setting of the sun and completion of their run. The scratch start handicap 5km & 10km races commenced at 5pm in very warm conditions, however, runners were rewarded with post-race treats from Ange Furdek, Leanne Connor, Jo Hughes and hosts Paul & Janelle Tilse to alleviate some of the pain and suffering from their tremendous efforts.

Club President, Tim Magoffin welcomed all new and existing runners before giving the course description and outlining the new chip timing system currently being implemented and overseen by Brendan Bishop.  Many thanks to Brendan and his excellent team of timekeepers/registrar, Sandra Henderson, Jo Hughes, Leanne Connor, Ross Connor and Hayden Connor for their valuable assistance in having all runners checked in and recorded.  All runners need to register online asap to be a Member to be issued with a timing chip, which they keep for the year, however, should they forget or lose their chip, they will need to purchase a replacement or not have their race noted in the official results.  The preparation and cost of running the new timing system is significant and will greatly benefit the Members, many thanks to Brendan’s awesome efforts in organising the funding to support this valuable asset…..so much appreciated.

Julian Picot and Ashlee Scott continued their excellent winning form to record gold medal placings in the 10km two loop race with Jamie Sanders and Rachel Silvestri taking out the top placings in the 5km race, and Carl Pinkstone, Ashley Davies, Maddy Price and Josh Bornman collecting the minor silverware in the 10km and 5km respectively. There were some outstanding performances from new runners, Diego Saglia, Luke Schatkowski and Emma Carlos as well as junior runners, Finn Zamparutti, Leo Walz, Simba Walz, Layla Sanders, Leon Barben and Ryan Barben. Many experienced senior runners displayed their sensational talents including Russell VanDenBosch, Greame Harris, Alan Zamparutti, Martin Lambert, Tim Magoffin, Stephen Oberg, Shane Barben, Peter Wright, Jose Short, Ange Furdek,  Judy Zahn, Merv Shields, Ricky Parker, Tim Caddy, Julie Bishop, Sandra Henderson Jan Smith, Erin Safe, Daniel Stampa, Caroline Steginga and Mark Walz.  Exceptional running by two of the Club’s most awesome and inspirational runners, seventy-three year old Stuart Sprott and seventy-one year old David Isbister…..there is ALOT to be admired, respected and learnt from this pair!  A welcome return and congratulations to Josh Eisemann, who has actually done back to back consecutive weekly 5km’s, also doubling up as a much needed boost and entertainment value for congenial rival Paul Tilse.

This Friday evening commencing at 6pm at a cost of $10, the BMA Mackay Marina Run in association with the Mackay Road Runners and the Mackay Branch of the Leukaemia Foundation will conduct its second annual Twilight Launch 5km run from the City Centre City Cinema carpark precincts. All funds will go directly to the Leukaemia Foundation, who are the major beneficiary of the BMA Mackay Marina Run’s fundraising efforts.  Come one, come all to walk/run the 5km in a bid to start your training regime, if you haven’t already, to support the Leukaemia Foundation and one of the Mackay Road Runners’ Signature events, the BMA Mackay Marina run event on 4th June.

This Sunday’s 5km run will be the first of the Club Championship races, commencing at 5pm from the Queen’s Park Rotunda, Goldsmith Street.  All runners must register to be a Member online by 28th February to be eligible for valuable open and age category Club Championship points.

With the formal running season now underway, Members are also requested to contact Volunteer Co-ordinator, Paul Tilse to note the date they can assist at one/more of our weekly events.  Many of our Committee Volunteers already have a heavy weekly Club workload with race setup/pack up, course marking, registrar, timekeeping, publicity obligations, etc….therefore, being able to volunteer at a race at least once throughout the year would be much appreciated.  If we do not get the required number of volunteers, Paul will assume it is ok to randomly draw Members’ names out of a hat/shoe to attach to a random race. Therefore, please note your name on a race that will suit you prior to this otherwise if your name is noted down on a race you cannot attend, you will need to organise a replacement. Paul will email a list to the relevant volunteers when the list is finalised so they are aware of their timeslot.  Please note Paul will NOT be including committee members/current volunteers on the volunteer list, as they are already contributing way beyond expectations…once again, thank you so much to everyone, your efforts are amazing….they are mostly unseen so that the weekly events run as smoothly as they do!