2018

Mackay Road Runners, Mackay Cycling and Mackay Triathlon Clubs hosted the M-Test Mackay and Torque Tyres and Trailer Parts Eungella King of the Mountain last Sunday morning in perfect running and cycling conditions. The 8am start from the small rural township of Netherdale, 6.4km from the Eungella summit and finish line, was extremely cool as athletes, supporters and organisers gathered from 6am in readiness for the morning’s racing.

The Mackay Road Runners Signature Club Championship event had awesome prizes on offer from M-Test Mackay, Podiatry Mackay and the coveted Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy. Mackay Road Runners have been conducting the prestigious event for thirty-five years and in conjunction with the cycle race since 2014. The tenth anniversary Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy donated by Veronica Pettifer, supports the Junior 3.2km male and female running champions with a perpetual trophy and sports voucher for the deserved recipients. Approximately forty runners and sixty cyclists held one minute’s silence in respect of Laura Pettifer, who tragically passed away in December, 2018 whilst on a hilly cycling training session. The memory of Laura will continue with the support of her Mum, Veronica and the local triathlon and running communities who will never forget her endearing and generous persona.

Talented trail and mountain running champion, Carl Pinkstone was crowned King of the Mountain in a star studded field of talent including second placed, local, now international runner, Liam Mumford, third placed Julian Picot and Rod LeCoz (4th). Carl’s excellent time of thirty minutes 13 seconds was just over two minutes shy of the 1991 race record set by Eungella King of Mountain legend, thirteen time winner, Charlie Martel.

Queen of the Mountain, Alyce Garth was just two seconds off the 1991 female race record of 34 minutes 55 seconds. Alyce’s sensational race placed her fourth overall and three seconds in deficit from collecting the $500 race record cash prize. Alyce has been in top form this year, also taking out the recent BMA Mackay Marina 8km run in sizzling style. Ainslie Heinke (41:25), also clocked a spectacular time to score the silver medal ahead of third placed Kyle Harbour (42:40) and Alana Ford, fourth in 43 minutes and eight seconds.

There was sensational racing across the board but none more so than eight year old, Max Scotton who challenged himself by taking on the 6.4km senior race in lieu of the 3.2km junior distance. His fifty minutes twenty-four seconds placed him mid field and the winner of the Junior King of the Mountain. Max’s Dad, Daniel was ecstatic (miffed) to be left in his wake, just seeing the back of his son’s bright orange shirt fading into the distance. Max’s name will be recorded as this year’s Junior male King of the Mountain on the Laura Pettifer Inspirational Perpetual Trophy. He also won the Podiatry Mackay cash prize as well as the $100 sports voucher from Veronica Pettifer.

Excellent performances also came from seventy-two and seventy-four year old, Mackay Road Running stalwarts, David Isbister and Stuart Sprott. Unbeknown to these humble gentlemen, their younger peers are embarrassed that Stuart and David are pretty tough to beat, however, are respectfully in awe of their excellent running resumes. Veteran female runner and former ten time Queen of the Mountain champion, Judy Zahn, was also in scintillating form as the sixty-seven year old (sorry Jude!) smashed the course in her usual non-stop pace. Judy’s Eungella winning hiatus covered an unprecedented 20 year span from 1994 to 2013 with her best time being 38 minutes 17 seconds. Judy is a Life Member of the Mackay Road Runners and also an excellent inspiration to its members and the wider community. Visiting New Zealand runner, sixty-five year old Diane Oxley also had a standout run, easily taking in the cool and hilly conditions in her stride.

Judy, Diane, David and Stuart’s awesome running feats were well supported by fellow competitors, Leon Ryan, Mitchell Thompson, Scott McIntosh, Doug Bettington, Steve Oberg, Andrew Short, Jose Short, Alix Ryman, Luke Schatkowski, Bianca Black, Dannelle Thompson, Tim Dalton, Mark Takagaki, Peter Ford, Shane Barben, Janelle Tilse, Andrew Wotherspoon, Jim Ford, Karla Hook, Leanne Franklin and Arthur Dick.

Many thanks to the Eungella Community Development Committee who had sumptuous brekky options on offer for the athletes and their supporters. Ian, Maz, Joan and crew are an excellent support to the various sporting groups, now offering 24/7 showers/toilets in their beautifully renovated hall. A hearty thank you to race day sponsors and supporters, M-Test Mackay, Torque Tyre & Trailer Parts, Podiatry Mackay, Finch Hatton Police and the Tri, Cycle and Mackay Road Runners Clubs.

In regional running news over the weekend, several Mackay Road Runners competed successfully at the Airlie Beach Running Festival, specifically Ricky Parker taking gold in the 5km. Mackay runners were also well represented by marathoners Mark McFadzen and Brenda Windsor, half marathoners, Lindsey Wiggins, Joe Grech, Martin Lambert, Janine Bella, Jo Skinner, Julie Whibley, Andy Steane and June Bradley and 10km competitors Peter Shuttlewood, Marie Muscat, Alex Anderson and Tim Caddy.

Junior running sensation, Rachel Silvestri performed extremely well at the Secondary School under 17 State Cross Country Championships scoring a silver medal for Queensland. Rachel was ecstatic with her result over the 4km testing cross country course at Maroochydore. Rachel will now compete in the relay event on Monday 23rd July, hopefully adding another medal to her haul. After her successful outing, Rachel will head to the National Titles in four weeks to be held in Queensland’s hilly region of Maleny. Congratulations to her and Mackay Road Running buddies, Layla Sanders, Simba Walz

Mackay Road Runners enjoyed a very social 5/8/10km run from the beautiful precincts of the Bluewater Quay last Sunday afternoon at 4pm. With the sun thankfully still shining, the cool conditions were perfect for running in Mackay’s unique winter wonderland. Over thirty runners had various options to choose from including a 10km run to the testing Mt Bassett where they could view sensational late afternoon vistas from the summit.

Excellent running came from several runners including Shane Barben, who was first in the 5km despite a nagging calf injury, Tim Caddy, who made a welcome return to the pavement after a series of testing ultra-marathon trail events and Ashlee Scott who also performed extremely well after a couple of injury setbacks. Peter Wright took a break from timekeeping duties to give his injury a work out by walking the 5km, as did Craig McGahey, who partnered Peter in the 5km event as part of his ongoing physio rehabilitation stint. Junior runners, Rachel Silvestri and Simba Walz were in awesome form leading their senior counterparts, Alana Ford, Mark Walz, Jo Hughes, Jo Skinner, Andrew Short, Colin Hardy, Darrin Pullen and Carolyn Steginga to the finish line. Ten kilometre runners, Jason McCord, Wayne McMurtrie, Peter Ford, Kylie Harbour, Mark Takagaki, Fernanda DeLima, Anna Walsh, David Isbister, Jo Ashford, Geoff Neale, Carol Brown and June Bradley had an excellent outing to successfully complete the Harbour Road/Mt Bassett run in excellent times. Many thanks to the Club’s awesome Andrew Short for his race day assistance – his usual weekly workload was severely reduced to the social concept.

Runners are now tapering in readiness for this weekend’s annual Mackay Road Runners Signature event, the tough historic Eungella King of the Mountain. The 6.4km senior race is sponsored by long-time supporters, Torque Tyre &Trailer Parts (Roy Rosier) and M-test’s Wendy & Merv Shields. Wendy & Merv Shields are Life Members of the Mackay Road Runners and have continued their generous support once again together with the renamed Torque Tyre & Trailer Parts (old Mackay Tyrepower in Shakespeare St). Roy, Wendy & Merv sponsor the combined perpetual cycle/run event trophy which has been a coveted trophy since 2004, although the running event has been a must do event for over thirty years on the Mackay Road Runners calendar.

The Junior King of the Mountain 3.2km Laura Pettifer Inspirational/Podiatry Mackay event has also been a staple event on the Mackay Road Runners Calendar as well. Even though the junior event has been staged for over thirty years, this year will be presentation of the 10th annual Laura Pettifer Inspirational perpetual award. Laura, who was an excellent athlete and former winner of the 2018 Senior Queen of the Mountain, was an inspirational person among her family, friends, sporting, work and social peers. Her tragic passing on a cycling training event December 2018 will never be forgotten. Many thanks to her Mum, Veronica for her support of the junior event which will continue Laura’s legacy into the future. Podiatry Mackay’s Donald Orr has been supporting the event for approximately twenty years as well as being an integral part of the Mackay Road Runners Club supporting this event in addition to another of the Club’s Signature events, the junior Magic Mile, which will be held 19th August, hosted in conjunction with the North Qld Bulk Ports.

The Eungella King of the Mountain event commences 8am this Sunday, 22nd July from Netherdale which is at the base of Eungella, 6.4km from the Eungella township. Runners and cyclists can nominate on the day by 7.45am with each competitor seeking out their own club to pay their registration fee and sign on. As this is a point to point event, competitors and their supporters will need to arrive at least one hour prior to the start to organise transport to the finish line or back to the start as the road will be closed by the Finch Hatton Police for an hour duration of the event. The Eungella Community Development Committee has generously allowed us the use of their sensational hall’s covered open area for the joint cyclist/run post event presentation with yummy breakfasts for purchase from the Committee’s volunteers. Please bring cash as per menu and race flyer already distributed by the run, cycle and triathlon clubs. The Committee’s hall now has toilet/showers facilities available for a $2 gold coin donation, BYO towels, etc…. Please note this facility is now open 24/7 for those wanting to clean themselves up whilst in the area, cycling, running, camping, etc… Thank you to the Eungella Community Development Committee who are always generous in their support.

Mackay Road Runners hosted the very testing Robbo’s 61 Steps 5km & 10km from the Gordon White Library carpark precincts last Sunday afternoon at 4pm in sunny, but cool and breezy conditions. Approximately fifty runners enjoyed perfect running conditions as they traversed the undulating course which took in the Mt Pleasant suburban streets including Charles Hodge and Annie Wood Avenues before tackling the treacherous Pollock and High Streets. The two loop course successfully ensured 10km runners would not get lost if they got the first 5km right. Many thanks to timekeepers, Lindsey Wiggins, Craig McGahey, Peter Wright and Tim Caddy who did an awesome job starting runners on their individual handicap start times, culminating in a steady flow of runners crossing the finish line in consistent regulation.

In a welcome return to local racing after a short stint in Canada, Julian Picot finished a classy second place marginally behind a fast finishing Leon Ryan. Leon has been having a great year, substantially improving with every outing on the pavement. Leon’s first place was a sensational finish ahead of Julian with Liam Mumford settling for third place, mere seconds in deficit. First 10km female on handicap was a very focused and determined Kylie Harbour, who ran a spectacular race to take female honours ahead of Anna Walsh and Danielle Thompson. Congratulations to Bill and Will Morgan who stepped up to the longer distance, easily excelling in their debut 10km.

Darrin Pullen clocked an impressive time in the 5km as well as taking out the event from his handicap start ahead of a very fast finishing Rachel Silvestri and Andrew Short. Layla Sanders had an awesome race as well, relegated to fourth by Andrew just before the finish line. Additional competitors across both events who performed extremely well included Jose Short, Lauren Dunne, Alan Zamparutti, Stephen Oberg, Anthony Blines, Mark Walz, Ross Connor, Simon Henderson, Karla Hook, Teegan Philpott, Carol Brown, Stuart Sprott, Jan Smith, Leanne Connor, Sandra Henderson, Arthur Dick, David Isbister, Mitchell Thompson, Jo Skinner, Mark Takagaki, Peter Ellison, June Bradley, Bernadine McKinnon, Judy Zahn, Shane Barben, Fernanda DeLima and Wayne McMurtrie. Congratulations to Brenda Windsor who backed up with an easy 5km after her awesome efforts in the Bravehearts seven marathons in seven days in seven states.

Mackay Road Runners are now focusing on this weekend’s social 5km & 10km event commencing 4pm from the Bluewater Quay at the junction of Brisbane and River Streets. The social run will be a gentle outing in the lead up to one the Club’s annual Signature events, the M-Test/Torque Tyres and Trailer Parts Eungella King of the Mountain on Sunday 22nd July.

Mackay Road Runners hosted a very social 5km & 10km run from the Bluewater Quay at 4pm whilst a bevy of talented local runners hit the famous Gold Coast glitter strip for the annual Gold Coast  Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km and 5km.  President, Tim Magoffin was on hand to give his usual course briefing from the awesome City Centre banks of the Pioneer River.

Alan Zamparutti and Jose Short were the 10km champions of the day, scoring gold in the longer event, with a multitude of 5km competitors performing extremely well.

Meanwhile, many novice and experienced local Marathon and Half Marathon runners were successful in attaining their goals at the Gold Coast on the same morning.   Despite being the middle of winter, humid conditions met debut marathoners, Karlee Hayden (4hrs 12mins), Joe Grech (3hrs 36min) , Charlie Bone (5hrs 36min), Sarah Jensen (4hrs 50min) and Scott McIntosh (4hrs 09 min) however,  they were ecstatic with the longest running event of their lives to date.  Congratulations to Lindsey Wiggins (3hrs 17min), Victoria Beck (2hrs 52min) and ex Mackay runner, Brad Allen (3hrs 29min) who notched more successful marathon events to their belts. Half marathon runners, David Perkins, Jenny Harmer, Carmel Grech, Chris Evangelou and Benita Willis were also stand out Mackay runners in one of the must do events on the Queensland running calendar.

A hearty congratulations also goes to Brenda Windsor who completed the challenging Bravehearts 777 charity event where she completed seven marathons in seven days in seven states, with the finale being the Gold Coast Marathon.  Brenda, who is an amazing person and runner, set and achieved many goals in the lead up to completing the 777 event. Her enormous commitment, character, focus and discipline to get to the finish line of such an arduous and challenging task showcases what a great role model she is to her peers and the community at large.

This Sunday’s handicap start Mackay Road Runners’ Club event, Robbo’s 61 Steps 5km & 10km commences 4pm from the Gordon White Library carpark. Runners are requested to arrive by 3.50pm at the latest for a 4pm sharp start. Please give consideration to race day volunteers by adhering to all notices, wearing your individual timing chip and member race number.

Mackay Road Runners held its annual ‘The Grove’ 10km Handicap Trophy for the twenty-fifth consecutive year from the awesome precincts of The Grove Tavern, Andergrove Road last Sunday Afternoon in perfect running conditions.  The historic trophy is won by the first male or female runner who crosses the 10km line based on their handicap start.  Seventy-two year old talented Mackay Road Running stalwart, David Isbister was the deserved recipient, taking out the 2018 crown for the second time in the history of the event.  David’s last victory was an amazing fourteen years ago and now reigns as the only runner to have ever won the trophy for the second time.  Previous Trophy winners, Paul Tilse (1996), Shane Barben (2011) and Peter Wright (2015) were among approximately forty runners who were on hand to congratulate David at the post run presentation at The Grove lounge. Many thanks to The Grove Proprietor, Brad Hoffman for his support and very generous sponsorship as well as his friendly staff for hosting the special event.

Both five and ten kilometre participants were sent on their way from 4pm based on their individual club handicap by timekeepers, Craig McGahey, Peter Wright, Lindsey Wiggins and Tim Magoffin. Many thanks to these volunteers who take care of race day registration, timing and collation of results for the weekly events for all club members.  Merchandiser, Jo Skinner, Race Day setup, Andrew Short, and Registrar, Paul Tilse are also to be congratulated on their weekly race day efforts which also includes a tremendous amount of behind the scenes work to ensure a smooth event.

The Grove five kilometre runners enjoyed a spectacular outing with Darrin Pullen taking gold on handicap ahead of Carolyn Steginga, Janelle Tilse, Rachel Silvestri, Lindsey Wiggins, June Bradley, Andrew Short, Tam Wanstall, Ross Connor, Jo Hughes, Colin Hardy, Leanne Connor, Hayden Connor, Arthur Dick and Sandra Henderson.

Ten kilometre runners who were quick to follow in the speedy steps of winner,  David, included Jo Ashgrove, Danielle Thompson, Charlie Bone, Sarah Jensen,  Andy List, Ainslie Heinke, Mark Takagaki, Scott McIntosh, Jo Skinner, Kylie Harbour, Judy Zahn, Matt Graves, Carol Brown, Stuart Sprott, Anna Walsh, Steve Oberg, Mitchell Thompson, Mark McFadzen, Jose Short, Karla Hook, Geoff Neale, Shane Barben and Jan Smith.

This weekend’s Gold Coast Marathon event is a huge goal event for many local runners including first time marathoners, Charlie Bone, Sarah Jensen and Scott McIntosh. In other marathon news, local running grandmother, Mackay Road Runners, Brenda Windsor will have completed her first marathon on 25th June in Perth as part of the Bravehearts Charity ‘seven marathons in seven days in seven states’….results not to hand at time of printing. Best wishes and congratulations to all runners on their amazing efforts.

Local racing this Sunday at 4pm will consist of a very social 5/10km from the Bluewater Quay in the City Centre. All Members and non-members very welcome!

Over fifty Mackay Road Runners enjoyed perfect running conditions for the running of the annual Forsyth Accounting Junior five kilometre and Open ten kilometre Club Championship races from the beautiful Queens Park precincts. Long term sponsor, Forsyth Accounting has been a generous and integral part of the event for several years, with Senior Partner, David Forsyth also taking part in the 5km event. David was a Member of the Club for several years and still competes in local racing when the opportunity arises. Forsyths Partner, Shawn Claydon has previously been a multiple winner of this event, but was unable to participate this year. Forsyth’s staff were also keen to attend, but the more important social occasion of the Pioneer Valley Show just topped priority this year, although we understand this will be noted at their next performance reviews!

Local runner and United States athletics and academic scholarship student, Liam Mumford easily breezed over the ten kilometre course, taking the win from a high quality field. Carl Pinkstone claimed second and maximum Club Championship points ahead of fast finishing Leon Ryan and Andy List. Several male runners followed in quick succession before the first female, Ainslie Heinke scored gold in a sensational time ahead of Kylie Harbour and Jose Short. The cool but humid conditions guaranteed excellent times as was seen across the 5km and 10km races. Awesome performances also came from non-competitive father and daughter duo, Charlie Bone and Sarah Jensen who are in their final preparations for their first Marathon at the Gold Coast in two weeks.

First female in the 5km, Ashlee Scott made a welcome return to running after a serious injury, clocking a sizzling time despite the lack of training. Her second overall placing was excellent just behind the first elite male runner. Ross Connor continued his fine form, placing second for the boys ahead of a multitude of inform runners including Bill Morgan, Teegan Philpott, Lauren Betts, Andrew Short, Glynis Forse, Jo Hughes, Colin Hardy, Kim Saron, Leanne Connor and Sandra Henderson.

Best wishes to veteran Mackay Road Runners marathon runner, Koumala’s Brenda Windsor who will be commencing seven marathons in seven days in seven states on 24th June in a bid to raise funds and awareness of the Bravehearts Foundation. Brenda has been avidly raising funds and training for the big event which she confirms as the biggest challenge of her running career. Brenda’s first marathon will start in Perth, where she will join thirteen other runners who will be putting their bodies on the line for charity. In additional to the bounty of successful and talented local running talent, BMA Mackay Marina Run Race Director, Sandy Strong, scored a sensational win in his age category and fifth overall in the Mission Beach Half Marathon over the weekend.

Local racing continues this weekend at The Grove with the Mackay Road Runners coveted 10km Handicap Trophy on offer to the first male or female runner who crosses the finish line first based on their handicap start. Last year’s winner, junior running talent, Hunter McGovern will pass the baton on to the 2018 winner this Sunday afternoon at the post-race celebrations and presentation in The Grove lounge/dining area. Members are once again reminded to wear their timing chips and race numbers which will assist in efficient and speedy results collation and distribution. Runners are also reminded that registration for racing will close ten minutes prior to gun time. Those who have ordered club polos and singlets are requested to make payment by this Sunday directly to Jo Skinner so that she can now place an order.

Many thanks once again to race day sponsor, Forsyth Accounting, who donated cash prizes to ten lucky random draw recipients. The writer was ecstatic to be a lucky winner and extremely excited to take money off David and Shawn! A huge thankyou to race day volunteers, Craig McGahey, Peter Wright, Tim Caddy, Lindsey Wiggins, Jo Skinner, Jo Hughes, Andrew Short and Tim Magoffin…..their assistance as always is much appreciated and highly regarded…..THANK YOU!

Approximately forty runners enjoyed the Meng’s Cross Country Rowallan Park Trail Run in beautiful cool and sunny conditions. The technical race had runners encounter lots of twists and turns but all beautifully marked by Mackay Mountain Bike Club’s Graham Robinson. Many thanks to Graham for ensuring an enjoyable event which included meandering rocky, grassy and hilly variations to keep runners focused throughout the entire event. Mackay Road Runners would like to thank The Scout Association and The Mountain Bike Club for their assistance and use of their excellent facilities, awesome vistas and generous support.

Mackay Road Runners Club President, Tim Magoffin thanked Members, their family and friends for supporting the previous weekend’s most successful BMA Mackay Marina. Run. The tenth anniversary event was an unheralded success, with over three thousand three hundred runners across all events, including two thousand in the O’Hara Super Air Mart/Daikin 5km Corporate Challenge. The event was a winner for the local and wider Community and individuals, with a significant amount of funds raised towards the Event’s Charity, The Leukaemia Foundation. In addition to the valuable volunteers, the Event’s Sponsors were integral with their ongoing commitment to what is the largest regional running festival in Queensland.

Meanwhile back to local racing, Carl Pinkstone and Julian Picot were joint leaders throughout the 6.9km Rowallan Park trail run, with Carl claiming victory in the final loop. Carl was totally warmed up before the race, running from his South Mackay home to the start line. Off road bunyip enthusiast, Leon also warmed up with a gentle run from his Glenella home to the Rowallan Park, sprinted the course, then easily charged on home for breakfast. Andrew Short, Derek Woods, Mark McFadzen, Steve Oberg, Greame Harris, Peter Ellison, Matt Graves, Scott McIntosh, Mitchell Thompson, Peter Shuttlewood, David Isbister, Jamie Sanders and Craig Pinkstone also revelled in the perfect running conditions.

Jose Short thoroughly enjoyed being in nature after a late night of school work by tangenting off to see more of the unmarked course before crossing the finish line. Excellent running also came from Ainslie Heinke, Karla Hook, Jo Skinner, Lauren Dunne, Kylie Harbour, Jo Ashgrove and Carol Brown. Junior runner, Layla Sanders had an exceptional race over the two loop 4.9km course ahead of her more fancied rivals.

Runners are now looking forward to this weekend’s Forsyth Accounting 5km Junior and 10km Senior Club Championship race from Queens Park. Members are expected to wear their race numbers and timing chips and be registered with the timekeepers 10/15 minutes prior to race gun time at 4pm. Casual runners are always invited to run with the club for a small day fee of $10. Runners are then invited to stay post-race for cash random draw prizes courtesy of long time generous supporter, Forsyth Accounting.

Many thanks to race day volunteers, Julie Whibley, Jo Skinner, Craig McGahey, Tim Caddy, Peter Wright, Andrew Short, Tim Magoffin, Arthur Dick and Graham Robinson.

Mackay Road Runners Club held their North Harbour Loop 5km & 11km run commencing from The Cathy Freeman Oval, Slade Point. Perfect running conditions were on offer albeit for the strong South Easterly winds and humidity which caused havoc with runners as they tracked south towards Pacific Esplanade, Lamberts Beach and beyond to the Harbour Beach North Wall. With approximately forty runners in the starters hands for a handicap start from 4pm Sunday afternoon, timekeepers, Peter Wright and Tim Magoffin did an excellent job getting competitors underway based on their individual handicap times.

Mackay Road Runners welcomed the return of elite athlete, Liam Mumford, who is home on holiday break from his USA University until August to compete in several Mackay Road Runners signature events including the BMA Mackay Marina Half Marathon and the Eungella King of the Mountain. Liam has been performing extremely well in the States, recently collecting a gold medal in the Virginia Half Marathon in one hour 19 minutes in minus one temperatures. Liam will be seeking a top three placing in the BMA Mackay Marina Run and is hoping for very cool conditions. Temperatures for this weekend’s Marina Run have been forecasted for single figures, however, our coolest winter is not likely to mirror his current training conditions.

Life Member and record holder of the Mackay Road Runners’ Eungella King of the Mountain and Magic Mile, Charlie Martel was on hand to collect his Member/race # 2 which is a coveted number in long standing member circles. Member numbers 1 # 2 were held by original Mackay Road Runners Members, Ian Phillips and Trevor Baldock respectively, who were integral in starting the Mackay Road Runners Club forty-two years ago. Ian, who still resides in Mackay has not run for several years and Trevor, who lives interstate, have always paid their Membership to the Club to retain their original race/club numbers however, this year have generously allowed their numbers to be reissued to the next two numbered Members. Life Member, Merv Shields is now the current stakeholder of the very special #1. Fred Farmer, who has passed away, retains #3 as a special gesture by the club. Life Member, Wendy Shields now moves to #4, Jan Smith #5, Life Member Paul Tilse #6, Life Member Janelle Tilse #7, Life Member Judy Zahn #8, Life Member Shawn Claydon #9 and BMA Mackay Marina Run’s Sandy Strong rounds out the top 10.

Congratulations to two Mackay Road Runners, Carl Pinkstone (Mackay) and Gary Jenkinson (Moranbah) who successfully competed in the Adelaide Marathon this weekend. Carl’s excellent time of 2 hrs 57 minutes was outstanding as was Gary’s three hours 40 minutes. Carl & Gary claimed the conditions were a little cooler than Mackay & Moranbah, however, totally enjoyed the race course and atmosphere. Carl claimed a spectacular 17th overall and claiming 2nd in his 25-29 yrs age category. Gary finished 64th overall, and sensationally moved from 5th in his age category to take gold in the 60-64 years in the 42.2km event…..well done Gary and Carl, congratulations!

Meanwhile locally, The North Harbour Beach Loop was run and won in a blustery sunny Sunday afternoon. Leo Walz ran exceptionally well to take out the 5km on handicap with excellent performances also from Andrew Short, Mark Walz, Glynis Forse, Simba Walz, Arthur Dick, Paula Easton, Jenene McLellan, Cilla Martland and Ross Connor.

In the eleven kilometre race, runners endured the tough headwind along Pacific Esplanade as well as the sandy foreshore section from Lamberts Beach Tavern to the Harbour’s North Wall. Charlie Martel performed well to place first on handicap in his return run with the Club followed by a bevy of excellent runners including Andy List, Liam Mumford, Matt Graves, Mitchell Thompson, Leon Ryan, Danelle Thompson, Mark Takagaki, Karla Hook, Jan Smith, Jose Short, Simon Henderson, Allan Zamparutti, Stuart Sprott, Greame Harris, Tim Caddy, David Isbister, Martin Lambert, Erin Safe, Ainslie Heinke, Kylie Harbour, Darrin Pullen, and Jo Ashford.

Runners are now tapering for this weekend’s BMA Mackay Marina Run. Runners are requested to nominate in their chosen event online by Friday 1st June – mackaymarinarun.com Late nominations will be taken at the race bag collection at the Mackay Marina on Saturday 2nd June from 12pm to 5pm (please bring cash). Singlet/t-shirts are not guaranteed to be available and no nominations will be taken on race day. Volunteers for the event have given a massive amount of time throughout the year to ensure the success of the event with funds being raised for The Leukaemia Foundation….please thank them – be generous and kind to all runners, supporters and volunteers.

Over forty Mackay Road Runners welcomed the early morning chill factor as they braced themselves for the 6.30am start of the much anticipated annual Pre-Mother’s Day 5km & 12km last Saturday morning. The cool, breezy conditions were a little testing in the early stages, however, runners appreciated the perfect running conditions as the race progressed.

Club President, Tim Magoffin welcomed runners to celebrate the most important day of the year, Mother’s Day, with a handicap start 5km and 12km run from the Casu Jacks Cafe, Mackay Marina. Casu Jacks’ Hostess, Pauline welcomed supporters to partake in a scrumptious brekky whilst waiting for their family and friends to finish their event. Runners then took advantage of the tasty menu to rehydrate and refuel just in time for the sensational Mother’s Day random draw prizes donated by Mackay Road Runners.

Marathon running Grandmother, Brenda Windsor announced winners of her Bravehearts 777 fundraising raffle with prizes going to six very lucky recipients. Brenda will be running seven marathons (42.2km) in seven days in seven states at the end of June to raise funds for a BRAVEHEARTS. (BRAVEHEARTS is Australia’s leading child protection organisation dedicated to holistically preventing child sexual assault.)

Meanwhile, runners were in the starter’s hands, Lindsey Wiggins and Paul Tilse, as they announced race start times based on their individual handicaps. Brianna Mouat had an excellent race, claiming victory in the 5km handicap event ahead of a very fast finishing Andrew Short and Mark Pashalis. Junior runner, Rachel Silvestri claimed fourth and second best time of the day over fastest 5km runner, Jared Spence. Ross Connor crossed the line under a minute later with Carolyn Steginga and Wayne McMurtrie less than twenty seconds in deficit. Layla Sanders claimed second junior female with open runners, Cilla Martland, Leanne Connor, Arthur Dick and Sandra Henderson rounding out the talented field.

Shane Barben’s 2018 season has opened with a huge bang, scoring amazing placings in the handicap races thus far. The 12km Pre-Mothers’ Day race was no exception as he took gold and the wrath of the handicapper’s pencil once again. Teresa Hackney is also in sensational form, claiming second on handicap ahead of talented veteran, Stuart Sprott. Ainslie Heinke continued her consistent form, breaking the tape in the third followed closely by Sarah Jensen, Mark Takagaki, Simon Henderson, Jade Hammer, Jo Skinner and Craig McGahey, who rounded out the top ten handicap places. Tim Magoffin showed an excellent return to form, just pipped at the post by McGahey, with Erin Safe, Kylie Harbour, Vicki Vickers, Alan Zamparutti, Kristian Safe,Judy Zahn, June Bradley, Lindsey Wiggins and Scott McIntosh all clocking handicap finishing times on seventy-five minutes. Ross Vickers had a mixed day out, with a race beating from his wife, Vicki, however, came out a winner, after scoring a random draw prize in the post-race celebrations. Excellent running also came from Karla Hook, Geoff Neale, Carol Brown, Carmel Mahon, Sandy Strong and Jan Smith.

Many thanks once again to race day volunteers, Andrew Short, Tim Magoffin, Lindsey Wiggins, Jo Skinner, and Paul Tilse. Great work by Lindsey to have results updated on the Club website so quickly, much appreciated!

Mackay Road Runners continued further celebrations in the afternoon when one of their Life Members, Shawn Claydon’s family hosted his 50th Birthday Party. Shawn’s running achievements were a major highlight of the event, with many of his running buddies in attendance, including fellow Mackay Road Runners Life Members, Charlie Martel, Judy Zahn, Paul and Janelle Tilse. Many thanks to Shawn’s sister, Sharon and his lovely family and friends for a beautiful afternoon.

Most, but not all runners, are now looking forward to the next Club Championship race, the Alarm Guys Junior 5km and Senior 30km to be held our generous hosts Brendan, Julie, Millie and Hughie Bishop’s, 39 Vassallo Drive, Glenella residence. The race commences 6am, the runners are required to be ready to race by the 5:50am briefing with their race chips and numbers attached to themselves and registered in with the timekeeper. Runners are also requested to bring some extra coin for post-race treats donations.

All the best to ultra-marathon runner, Tim Caddy, who will be competing in the North Face 100km this weekend in the NSW Blue Mountains.

Mackay Road Runners had a very successful Mackay City Motors Auto Group North Queensland Games outing with many of its members taking home well-earned gold, silver and bronze bling. The Club hosted a 5km & 10km event from the spectacular surroundings of the Botanic Gardens Amphi-theatre precinct. The one loop five km course and two loop 10km course showcased the serene atmosphere of the Garden together with a boost of awesome tunes to uplift runners and supporters from Mackay’s most famous DJ, the delightful Jungle Jim. With a bevy of sporting options on offer at the North Qld Games, Race Directors, Paul Tilse, Shawn Claydon, Ashlee Scott and Arthur Dick were very impressed with the attendance and even more so with the assistance of their many volunteers, which was well appreciated by local and interstate runners.

Approximately fifty runners burst out of the gates to initially tackle an uphill section towards the Amphi-theatre carpark before being directed by race marshal #1, Arthur Dick to head right onto Horse & Jockey Road towards the entrance of the Botanic Gardens. Race Marshall #2, Tam Wanstall, also happily directed athletes continue on the meandering track south towards the City Gates turnaround where race marshals, Judy Zahn, Stuart Sprott, Leanne Connor, Dale McIntosh and James McIntosh kindly supported runners in their bid to conquer their respective events. Runners also enjoyed the Botanic Gardens waterways road crossing signalling the final two hundred metres to the finish line, where they were met with a finish ticket by road running stalwart, Mark Pashalis.

The five kilometre overall winner, Will Morgan had an outstanding run, clocking seventeen minutes 39 seconds in the humid, but perfect running conditions. First female, Rachel Silvestri (19:23) ran brilliantly to place third overall and first in her age category. Townsville competitors Julia Anderson (40:10) and Ian Anderson (39:40) put on an awesome display of North Queensland running, each taking gold in the male and female 10km event. Competitors were delighted with their individual performances, including Lydia Dodds, Ashlee Scott, Jenny Smith, Sandra Henderson, Priscilla Martland, Tomas Heikkinen,Mark Rainsford, Ross Connor, Bill Morgan, Andrew Short, Mark Walz, Simba Walz, Sharyn-Maree Bunt, Fernanda DeLima, Kylie Harbour, Belinda Van Lint, Jo Ashford, Jeanette Elms, Carmel Mahon, Jade Hammer, Jason McCord, Joe Grech, Stephen Oberg, Mark Takagaki and Simon Henderson.

Local running legend and Mackay Road Runners Life Member, Shawn Claydon with Mackay Regional Council and NQ Games Chair, Kev Casey were on hand to congratulate runners on their achievements with gold, silver and bronze medals in all age categories. Thank you to Shawn and Kev for organising medals which added to the congenial awards presentations. Kev has been extremely busy over the last twelve months and especially in the final weeks, heading the NQ Games organising committee. As joint Medal Presenter, Shawn, whose outstanding running, personal achievements and dedication to the Club as Treasurer and Life Member, made for a very special treat for the organisers and runners alike.

Mackay Road Runners Club President, Tim Magoffin, congratulated Paul Tilse and his awesome team on staging a superb event which was well supported by the local running fraternity and its generous Club volunteers.

Meanwhile in out of town and overseas racing, many locals attended the very popular Stamford Financial Hamilton Island Hilly Marathon, Half Marathon, Half Marathon Teams event and junior races….results not to hand at time of printing.