2018

The first Club Championship race on the 2018 Mackay Road Runners Calendar was a very successful event, with over eighty runners competing for open and age category club championship points. Club President, Tim Magoffin, welcomed many new and existing runners to the Club’s events which are always a friendly and enjoyable affair. He also impressed on all runners that they must arrive at least half an hour prior to racing so that race day volunteers including timekeepers and registrar can close off in readiness for the race to commence on the advertised time. It is also crucial for volunteers to be considered at all times…they are an integral part of the club and also like to prepare for their event. Members must always wear their timing chip and race numbers so that they are readily identified for efficient collation of results as well as health and safety requirements. It is of utmost importance that runners listen carefully to the pre-race briefing which includes relevant club information, course briefing and safety advices.

Talented Julian Picot ran a sensational race in the testing conditions which included high humidity and threatening rain prior and throughout the 5km race. Julian’s time of 16 minutes 36 seconds was a solid win over fast finishing Carl Pinkstone and very talented junior runner, Will Morgan. Will missed his goal time of under eighteen minutes by three seconds, however, his exceptional form so early in the season promises improvement with each run ie he’ll be breaking the eighteen minute barrier in no time.

In the female category, junior Rachel Silvestri also ran a great race, taking maximum club championship points by sprinting to the finish line in nineteen minutes fourteen seconds with a bevy of top class runners, including Irish compatriot, Shane Ward. Year twelve student Rachel is set for a big year which includes her final academic studies and her many athletic interests. Second placed, Ashlee Scott (20:40) also continued her fine form, easily completing the 5km event ahead of tenacious sprint queen, Alana Ford.

With over eighty runners in the quality field, there were so many outstanding performances including but not limited to Ryan Palazzi, Lindsey Wiggins, Mark McFadzen, Tim Caddy, Simba Walz, Jarrod Spence, Greame Harris, Scott McIntosh, Matt Graves, Wayne McMurtrie, Ainslie Heinke, Carolyn Steginga, Carmel Mahon, June Bradley, Jose Short, Brittany Suratman, Kylie Harbour, Jo Ashford, Karlee Hayden, Tammy Wanstall, Jo Skinner, Mark Pashalis, Judy Zahn, Jenny Smith, Bernadine McKinnon, Brenda Windsor, David Isbister, Cilla Martland, Tim Magoffin, Mark Takagaki, Andrew Short, and Stuart Sprott.

Results for the Queens Park 5Club Championship will available on the website once processed and confirmed mackayroadrunners.com.au

Congratulations and thank you to all the volunteers and runners who attended the BMA Mackay Marina Run 5km Twilight Run Launch last Friday evening in the City Centre. With over five hundred runners, the Leukaemia Foundation estimates raising over $4,000 for their very worthy charity…..thank you to the ever supportive local community. Nominations are now open to register for the 10th anniversary of the iconic event on 3rd June – mackaymarinarun.com

Meanwhile, this Sunday’s Mackay Road Runners handicap start 5km & 8km event commences at 5pm from the Ocean International park precincts, beach end of Bridge Road….all welcome !

In perfect running conditions, over sixty runners enjoyed the Mackay Road Runners Mt Bassett 5km & 11km events last Sunday afternoon from East Point Road at the far end of the New Mulherin Park, Mackay Harbour. Club President, Tim Magoffin, welcomed new and returning runners for the annual Mt Bassett event, which includes one ascent of Mt Bassett in the 5km and two for the 11km competitors. The fresh, breezy conditions were a welcome change, however, the humidity was still evident as runners noticeably warmed up quickly as their efforts increased throughout the testing course towards the finish line.

In the five kilometre event, junior runners, Rachel Silvestri, Will Morgan, Tahlia Campbell and Layla Sanders performed exceptionally well. Senior runners also revelling in the challenging event included Ashlee Scott, Mark Walz, Mark Pashalis, Ross Connor, Paul Arvidson, Cilla Martland, Arthur Dick, Leanne Connor, Sandra Henderson, Shane Coppin and Dannelle Thompson.

The 11km event took runners from a handicap start onto Harbour Road after the first Mt Bassett climb, towards the Big Banana turnaround via the new partially renovated Vines Creek Bridge and walkway. Harbour Road proved to be undeniably tough as the seemingly flat section included several slight undulations to contend with. Runners were within a kilometre of the finish line, when the second and last Mt Bassett ascent split the field as fatigue set in. Excellent performances came from the boys, Carl Pinkstone, Jared Spence, Andy List, George Hannaford, Scott McIntosh, Greame Harris, Mitchell Thompson, Sandy Strong, Martin Lambert, Shane Barben, Darrin Pullen, Steve Oberg, Ross Vickers, Peter Ellison, Peter Shuttlewood, Geoff Neale, Tim Magoffin, Stuart Sprott, Charlie Bone, Simon Henderson, Gaven Porter, Daniel Stampa and Mark Takagaki. The female field also stamped their authority with Kylie Harbour, Jose Short, Carmel Mahon, Karla Hook, Erin Safe, Jan Smith, Anna Berrigan, Lauren Berts, Teresa Hackney, Vicki Vickers, Molly Loosmore, Jo Skinner, Tegan Philpott, Jenny Smith, Stacey Tresise, Jenny Harmer, Di Clulee, Brenda Windsor and June Bradley clocking very respectable times.

Runners are now looking forward to a multitude of running choices this weekend with Mackay Road Runners hosting the Kia Motors North Queensland Games 5km & 10km at 7am Sunday from the Botanic Gardens Amphi-Theatre and the Stamford Financial Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon, Marathon, Half Marathon Team event and kids races. The options are an awesome reflection on the spectacular running locations available which has increased the popularity of the sport within the locality of our great region. Many thanks to the organisers of both events, as a lot of work goes into staging these events.

Runners are encouraged to also nominate asap for the largest running festival in regional Queensland, the BMA Mackay Marina Run, to be held on Sunday, 3rd June from the beautiful Mackay Marina precincts. Distance options include the Half Marathon, 8km, 5km, 5km corporate challenge and the junior 3km. Go online today and support the event as an individual, team or volunteer in a spectacular event that supports the local branch of the Mackay Leukaemia Foundation, who is the major beneficiary.

Many thanks to Mt Bassett race day volunteers, Tim Magoffin, Andrew Short, Jo Skinner, Lindsey Wiggins, Peter Wright and Paul Tilse.

Mackay Road Runners annual Farmers Long Gallop 5km & 17km was as usual, held at the residence of Life Member Agnes Farmer. Agnes’s husband, Fred, who has since passed, continues the Long Gallop tradition from the early days when Fred raced the longer distances in spectacular form. The race is always held at this time of year, where the conditions start off a little cool but then warm up in the latter stages of both 5km and 17km races. The 6.30am start is perfect although still a little early for non-runner Agnes! Many thanks to Agnes for hosting the event once again and for supplying yummy post-race brekky…so much appreciated!

The handicap start 5km & 17km races had runners on lower handicaps starting earlier than their faster paced peers. This style of race ensures an early lead for runners who would not normally be in front if it was a scratch start and also allows the faster runners ample time to warm up before their start time, thereby offering an excellent opportunity to chase down the frontrunners.

Handicapped back markers, Carl Pinkstone, Paolo LaPenna, Scott McIntosh Craig McGahey, Jose Short, Carmel Mahon, Alana Knesevic, Ainslie Heinke and Kylie Harbour pitted themselves against each other in a bid to get to the finish line in their personal best times. Alana and Peter Ford were very supportive siblings……until the finish line…..where Peter got a rush of blood and surged marginally ahead of newly wed Alana to sneak home first. Alana and Peter are NOT competitive! Dad, Jim, fortunately, was very sensible and happy to complete the 17km at his own well-paced time…well done Jim!

The 5km race saw the return of junior running sensations, Tahlia Campbell and Will Mogan, who blitzed the field based on their individual handicapped starts. Congratulations to all 5km runners, including Ashlee Scott who made a welcome return to running after a serious ankle injury. Excellent performances came from Leanne Connor, Jo Hughes, Cilla Martland, Tam Wanstall, Ross Connor, Bill Morgan, Jenny Harmer, Carolyn Steginga, Andrew Short, Mark Pashalis, Marie Muscat and Arthur Dick.

Seventeen kilometre runners had a tough outing as the course included many serious undulations including the final stages of the race where the legs did NOT need the extra challenges of Norris Road and Malcomson Street. The humidity was extremely high, therefore runners were thankful for the awesome water aid station volunteers and Mackay Marina Run Race Directors, Sandy Strong and Tim Magoffin….where would we be without them! It was great to hear the runners voicing their gratitude to Tim & Sandy as they did not race so they could aid runners. Tim also put on his President hat as he got to the start much earlier for the race day setup, pre-race briefing and course description which everybody carefully listened….right?

Thanks also goes to the course setup guy, the magical Andrew Short….WHO does put out the road signs, waterstop gear, etc….. and then collects them afterwards……hmmmm? Andrew must have been a great Santa, Easter Bunny and Tooth Fairy in his day….he’s amazing, does it quietly and without fuss. Runners who may not have met Andrew need to show their appreciation to him and club volunteers who do so much work behind the scenes to get the weekly runs happening. Thankfully the 6.30am race wasn’t any earlier, otherwise Andrew, Tim and Sandy would be out and about loitering at 2am! In addition to the above accolades, there were some excellent performances in the 17km including but not limited to Steve Oberg, Alan Zamparutti, Craig McGahey, Jo Skinner, Jan Smith, Stuart Sprott, Carol Brown, Brenda Windsor, Peter Ellison, Leanne Drury, Christine Smith, Jenny Smith, Di Clulee, David Isbister.

Registrar, Paul Tilse and timekeeper, Lindsey Wiggins also do ALOT of work behind the scenes getting race numbers, handicaps and results issued as quickly as they can. Should there be delays in results on the website, a problem may have occurred with the laptop and the time-consuming role of collating results ie late arrivals, individuals starting on incorrect handicap, no timing chips, etc…therefore please be patient and offer your assistance on race day as this will definitely help smooth the path for all officials. Congratulations Lindsey on a great 17km race yourself after getting everybody else underway. We must remember our volunteers ARE runners too.

Thank you to Jose Short and Jo Skinner for setting up the Club merchandise where runners can view and purchase a multitude of Mackay Road Runners items if they choose.

This Sunday’s Mackay Road Runners event commences 4.30pm from the New Mulherin Park end of the Mackay Harbour (East Point Rd). Members, please note this will be a handicap start 5km and 11km race, therefore, all race numbers and timing chips must be worn.

Mackay Road Runners Race Director, Martin Lambert was ecstatic with the attendance at the Cape Hillsborough 10km Hurt Locker social run last Sunday, where over forty runners enjoyed the varying terrains of the Cape Hillsborough Beach and National Park hills and trails.

Approximately 40 runners tackled the very challenging hills, sand and rainforest, starting with the trail at the north end of the beach before proceeding along the beach to Wedge island (as the tide was out) onto the steep climb up to Turtle Lookout and then back to the car park area. A brave few then took on the usual Mackay Road Runners Club Championship course via the 4WD track and the scenic rainforest loop.

Martin’s course description was perfectly in sync with the excellent environmentally conscious marking by Martin, Leon Ryan and Wayne McMurtrie. The organisers including race sweeper, Wayne McMurtrie were rapt with the attendance as well as the fact participants were acutely aware of their surroundings and fellow competitors thus ensuring no one got lost. This made for excellent comradery and a popular new addition to the Mackay Road Runners formal calendar. The run was initially introduced in the Summer off season series by Club Captain, Jim Ford, however with the increasing interest in trail running and the smiley satisfaction on the runners’ faces, this event will surely be a staple event of the Club’s regular formal program.

Many thanks to the local Queensland Parks & Wildlife team for their excellent work in maintaining the trails in such pristine condition which is very difficult in the current climate. Many thanks also to Mackay Road Runners Members who participated and took special care whilst utilising the beautiful facilities….we are very fortunate to have such an awesome landscape to enjoy.

The local and wider community are invited to participate in the North Queensland Games 5km & 10km run on Sunday 6th May hosted by the Mackay Road Runners Club, commencing from the Meadowlands Amphi-Theatre, Botanic Gardens, West Mackay. All those wishing to enter need to register on line by the 26th April at www.nqsports.com.au

Runners also have the option of participating as an individual or in a team at the 13th annual Stamford Financial Hamilton Island Hilly Marathon/Half Marathon and kids races on the same day. This event is becoming one of Australia’s most iconic must do road/trail/hill running events in the most sensational location in the World…..register now!

Once the NQ Games and Stamford Hamilton Island Hilly Marathon events are run and won, time to gear up for the BMA Mackay Marina run which will follow four weeks later on the Sunday, 3rd June. Check out mackaymarinarun for race options. The BMA Mackay Marina Run is flat and fast and celebrating its 10th Birthday….register now and support your local branch of the Leukaemia Foundation!

Approximately fifty Mackay Road Runners enjoyed the challenging Rural View 5 & 10km event commencing from McCready Street at 4.30pm last Sunday. The very blustery conditions and threatening rain handed out mixed conditions from humidity to late afternoon coolness and very brief light sprinkling rain. Club President, Tim Magoffin described the 5km undulating and meandering course which included a scenic circular loop of the magnificent heights of Rural View Drive, with ten kilometre competitors enjoying a repeat loop to complete their event. The handicap start events prove to be very popular with Club Members, where runners start their race based on their handicap time thus leaving the top back markers chasing down the rest of the field. The handicapper has a tough job allocating official handicaps to individuals, however, this is based on each runner’s individual recent past performances which is adjusted and updated on a regular basis.

Ten kilometre winner based on handicap, Shane Barben had a sensational race, starting out strongly to finish easily ahead of his talented peers including second placed Erin Safe and Rodney Yates. The fastest 10km time went to one of this year’s standout runners, Julian Picot closely followed by Carl Pinkstone. Carl had an outstanding 10km race after an awesome first place the same morning in one of North Queensland’s Outer Limits Adventure Fitness Trail running series events. The 21km “Elliott’s Revenge” in the Bowling Green Bay National Park, which is shadowed by Mount Elliott, has a great variety of trails, a challenging hill and some fast single trails following Alligator Creek. Carl’s time of one hour forty-two minutes was two minutes clear of second in a field of ninety competitors including local trail runner, Tim Caddy who faced a few unexpected challenges throughout the race……well done Carl & Tim!

Meanwhile locally, the Rural View 10km female contingent raced extremely well, with a very close finish between Jose short and Julian Picot based on their handicap starts. Jose sprinted the final straight to edge out Julian, both clocking impressive times in the longer event. Carmel Mahon, Carolyn Steginga, Karla Hook, Jo Skinner, Stacey Tresise, Simon Henderson, Carol Brown, Judy Zahn and Sarah Jensen also placed well for the girls as did Martin Lambert, Alan Zamparutti, Sandy Strong, Mark McFadzen, Tim Magoffin, Paola LaPenna, Ryan Palazzi, Jason McCord, Wayne McMurtrie, Anthony Blines, Kristian Safe, Mark Takagaki, Brenda Windsor, Julie Whibley, Stuart Sprott and Charlie Bone for the boys. Thirteen year old Benji Binney was impressive in the 10km event, easily sprinting the two loop course to place highly among his older and more experienced competitors.

Five kilometre runners recorded great times despite the very hilly terrain and tough swirling breezes and headwinds. Rachel Silvestri once again posted an exceptional race as she easily took in the rolling countryside in her usual fast focused pace. Home on University break, Lauren Morgan made short work of her 5km race, proving she still has plenty of speed and stamina to burn. Simba Walz’s set another sensational 5km time, showing improvement with every outing this year so far. Bill Morgan has also been in outstanding form this year as is Mark Pashalis, Daniel Stampa, Marie Muscat, Colin Hardy, Cilla Martland, Jo Ashgrove, Tam Wanstall, Paula Easton, Lauren Berts, Arthur Dick, Paul Tilse, Andrew Short, Jenny Smith and Mark Walz.

Many thanks to race day volunteers including Glynis Forse, Peter Wright, Daniel Stampa, Lindsey Wiggins, Andrew Short, Paul Tilse, Suzie Silvestri and Tim Magoffin.

This Sunday’s social event will be a challenging 10km trail and sand run commencing at Cape Hillsborough Parklands/BBQ/camping area precincts at 4.30pm. All members and non-members most welcome to attend.

Runners are also reminded to visit the North Queensland Games website to register for our local 5km or 10km event on Sunday morning 6th May at the Botanic Gardens Meadowlands Amphi-Theatre – visit https://www.nqsports.com.au/2018-mackay-city-auto-group-nq-games/ to register in your event or for more information on North Queensland Games activities ie Opening Ceremony, event times and locations, etc…

The running of the 10th annual BMA Mackay Marina Run will be held on Sunday 3rd June – visit mackaymarinarun to register today for 3km (age restrictions), 5km Corporate Team, 5km, 8km and 21.1km.

Approximately fifty Mackay Road Runners were very fortunate when the sky cleared just in time for the annual Easter Sunday Zambrero Burrito 5 & 10km Bolt social events. After a bout of consistent rain all day and more chocolate than they cared to admit, runners were very excited to tackle the flat fast course, despite the post rain humidity. Club President, Tim Magoffin briefed the runners on the out and back course, reminding them of their own responsibility with road safety as they tracked their way towards the Bluewater Trail.

Zambrero’s Manager, Peter Quinn, was once again an excellent host and supporter of the Mackay Road Runners annual Burrito Bolt, where his very congenial staff were great in attending to the Mackay Road Runners barrage as well as their regular clientele. Zambrero’s awesome food and beverage menu, which was hard to resist, was enjoyed by the runners and their families which in turn supports Zambrero’s ethical trading cause in beating the huge World hunger issue.

Mackay Road Runners welcomed many new and returning runners as well as this year’s Relay for Life Ambassador, Mark Rainsford. Mark, who was previously involved with the Club through his children, has strongly fought through his cancer and subsequent treatments to bravely tackle the 5km event where he successfully conquered the awesome Bluewater Trail course.

Great to see the return of Russell VanDenBosch and Marie Musat, who performed extremely well in addition to regular runners including, Kim Saron, Jenene McLellan, Danelle Thompson, Jo Hughes, Carmel Mahon, Carolyn Steginga, Glynis Forse, Jo Ashford, Matt Graves, Mitchell Thompson, Jo Skinner, Tam Wanstall, Arthur Dick, Martin Lambert, Shane Barben, Derek Woods, Tim Magoffin, Cilla Martland, Jenny Smith, Stephen Oberg, Anthony Blines and Teresa Hackney.

This Sunday’s 5/10km Rural View handicap start event commences McCready Street at 4.30pm sharp, therefore, all members must have their timing chip laced onto their shoe as well as their member number pinned to the front of their shirt. Runners are requested to park across the road at the Shopping Centre near the Northern Beaches Bowls Club so that local traffic can exit their properties without delay or angst. Elasticised waist straps used to display member numbers must be facing the front as they cross the line which ensures numbers are filmed for secondary supporting evidence alongside the electronic timing system. The timekeepers have a tough job ensuring results are recorded and collated online viewing, however, problems do occur, therefore, all runners must comply as instructed. All casual day runners are most welcome to run for $10 (seniors) or $5 (juniors), although those intending to join can do so for a minimal annual fee of $57 (seniors) or $24 (juniors 12yrs – 18yrs). Members are entitled to regular Club updates, handicap and club championship points and trophy eligibility at the annual Presentation Night in October. Runners are also reminded that race day registration will close ten minutes prior to gun time which allows our valuable volunteers some time to warm up for their own race.
The local and wider community are reminded that the 10th Anniversary BMA Mackay Marina Run registrations have been open since the 1st March, therefore, to secure your shirt/singlet size, don’t miss out, go online now www.mackaymarinarun.com

Mackay Road Runners annual Tim’s Pub to Pub Slade Point 5 & 16km Club Championship race was held in very damp, slippery conditions from the residence of generous hosts’ Sandra & Tim. The 6am race started with a course briefing by the Club President, Tim Magoffin just before the sun rose amid the cloudy ocean backdrop. Sprinkling rain had a welcome cooling effect for approximately sixty runners as they contested the Junior 5km and the Senior 16km Club Championship race where valuable open and age category club championship and handicap points were on offer.

Will Morgan had an outstanding race, conquering the course in a very respectable time ahead of second male and Dad, Bill Morgan (Hope the East Bunny still comes to Will). First female, Rachel Silvestri was once again outstanding, easily sprinting the 5km course ahead of Layla Sanders, who had a great run, finding superb form early in the season. An excellent effort by Tim Magoffin who impressively multi tasked ie running and carrying a road sign (who said males can’t do two things at once!) And then, put on his other hat to assist the Bacon & Egg Magoffin cooking team, Sandra Comben and Chris & Barry Comben….thankyou – just awesome! Ross Connor, Mark Pashalis, Peter Ellison, Jenny Harmer, Jo Ashford, Rod Yates, Leanne Connor, Paul Tilse, Cilla Martland and Arthur Dick also shared solid performances throughout the tough 5km course, which included one ascent of Lamberts Beach Lookout as well as many undulations towards the Seabreeze Tavern and return.

The sixteen kilometre runners also faced several challenges, including the never ending Slade Point Road containing steep cambered edges and the jungle like atmosphere of the wetlands trail parallel to Keeley’s Road. The turnaround point on Andergrove Road, opposite The Grove Tavern brought up the first six kilometres, with runners then doubling back past the start to then do the final 4 km. The back end of the race proved to be part of the toughest with the more serious undulations of Ocean Avenue and Gannet Street towards the fartherest point at Seabreeze Tavern, leaving only 2km for the final return trip back to the start line. Timekeeper, Peter Wright was a welcome sight at the finish line as he impressively handled the registration and recording of all runners as they sped through the finishing shute.

Sixteen kilometre winner Julian Picot was once again outstanding in his performance over the challenging course, with training buddy, Carl Pinkstone, closing in fast in the final straight. Leon Ryan had an outstanding race, powering over the hills to take third ahead of Hunter McGovern and Mark McFadzen. First female Jose Short scorched over the 16km course, claiming gold ahead of Carmel Mahon, Teresa Hackney with Shelley Binney and Ainslie Heinke just outside the podium places. Excellent efforts by new runners over this distance included Carolyn Steginga, Anna Berrigan, Lauren Berts, Kylie Harbour and Layla McGrory. Charlie Bone, who was very grateful for the advice and assistance of Carmel Mahon’s 20 seconds running/20 second walking, was ecstatic in conquering the challenging event. The support of Carmel is mirrored as typical of Mackay Road Runners support of each other, thank you Carmel and congratulations Charlie!

Other outstanding performances also came from former winner of the event, Judy Zahn, George Hannaford, Kristian Safe, Gavan Porter, Erin Safe, Emma Goodman-Jones, Tim Caddy, Luke Schatkowski, Lindsey Wiggins, Alan Zamparutti, Stuart Sprott, Karla Hook, June Bradley, Peter Ford, Lauren Dunne and Emily Wicks.

Many thanks to all the runners who donated funds towards the Leukaemia Foundation for the awesome Bacon & Egg Magoffin brekky, ‘with food items generously supplied by Sandra & Tim and cooked by Barry and Chris Comben. All funds greatly appreciated by the Leukaemia Foundation who are the major beneficiaries of the BMA Mackay Marina Run held annually on the first weekend in June. The Leukaemia Foundation and The Mackay Road Runners’ volunteers jointly host the BMA Mackay Marina Run ably assisted by an incredible committee of volunteers.

This weekend’s 5/10km social run commences Easter Sunday at 4.30pm from the Zambrero’s Restaurant, corner Gregory and Gordon Streets, City Centre. Many thanks to Host, Peter Quinn, his family and staff for their generous hospitality. All members and non members are welcome to enjoy a casual 5km or 10km run with like minded individuals….bring Mum, Dad and kids for support…..all invited.

Runners are also reminded that the North Queensland Games will be held in Mackay on the first weekend in May this year, with the Mackay Road Runners hosting a 5/10km run from the Botanic Gardens Amphitheatre, Alexandra Street…..registrations are now open, so go on line today!

Mackay Road Runners held its annual 5km & 13km Kmart Loop from the Gordon White Library precincts from 5pm in still very warm and humid conditions. Over sixty runners took on the challenging races which included several Mt Pleasant undulations throughout both courses. President, Tim Magoffin welcomed the keen athletes before describing the technical course which included the long undulating Malcomson Street stretch towards the Gooseponds and return for the 5km and a City loop for the 13k’ers, including the very testing High Street in the later stages.

Will Morgan was sensational in his 5km event, streeting the field in a superb time of eighteen minutes 52 seconds ahead of first female, classy, Rachel Silvestri (21:02). These times were particularly impressive due to the toughness of the course and heading directly into the glaring sun in the back half of the race. Second female, Ainslie Heinke (22:42) and third overall had a top class 5km race followed by talented veteran runners, Bill Morgan (23:30) and Ross Connor (23:41). Carolyn Steginga (24:15) easily cruised over the Malcomson Street hill ahead of fast finishing Mark Pashalis, Andrew Short, Bernadine McKinnon and Jenny Smith in the top ten. Tam Wanstall veered slightly off course to enjoy both sides of Malcomson Street whilst Cilla Martland, Sandy Marchetti, Paul Tilse, Leanne Connor, Jess Harris, Arthur Dick and Paula Easton were closing in fast for the final placings.

In the 13km event, Carl Pinkstone and Julian Picot ran shoulder to shoulder throughout the entire course, with less than one second separating them as Carl crossed the finish line marginally ahead of Julian. Carl and Julian clocked 51:49 ahead of Champion triathlete, Ryan Palazzi, Wayne McMurtrie, Andy List, George Hannaford, Craig McGahey and Leon Ryan. First female and ninth overall, Alana Ford was in great form breaking the hour by two seconds, followed by Ricky Parker, Scott McIntosh, Stephen Oberg and Jared Spence. Second female, Carmel Mahon surged well on the hills crossing the finish line one second ahead of Matt Graves with third female, Jose Short a further two minutes in deficit. Comeback kid, Peter Ford (1:05:58) was well pleased with his race, clocking exactly six minutes behind his sister, Alana, followed by Greame Harris, Lindsey Wiggins, Teresa Hackney and Tim Caddy. Martin Lambert performed exceptionally well after his recent marathon cycling event around the Apple Isle, stopping the clock in one hour eight minutes, forty-one seconds ahead of Judy Zahn, Kylie Harbour, Anthony Blines and Lauren Dunne. Husband and wife team, Ross and Vicky Vickers had a spectacular uphill sprint finish with Ross being the eventual victor, which he will no doubt be regretting throughout the week! Birthday boy, Simon Henderson, had a great day out for an old boy (hee hee) crossing the line behind talented peers, Alan Zamparutti, Jo Skinner and Julie Whibley. Tim Magoffin’s return to form was impressive as he placed well with other runners, Peter Ellison, Sarah Jensen, Shane Barben, Layla McGrory, Stuart Sprott, Carol Brown, Charlie Bone and Jan Smith.

Many thanks to race day volunteers including Tim Magoffin, Andrew Short, Judy Zahn, Paul Tilse, Peter Wright and Lindsey Wiggins. Members are also reminded to wear timing chips and race numbers to every race so that the timekeepers can easily register runners and accurately record finish times. Social runs are not timed, however, it would benefit members to wear their numbers and timing chips to every event to ensure good habits. All runners are also to be very aware of their own hydration requirements whilst training and racing with the current ongoing humidity still a major risk.

This Sunday’s Club 5km & 16km Pub to Pub Club Championship event commences 6am from the Magoffin residence, 16 Slade Point Road, Slade Point. Please note the course will still be the same as in previous years, however, the start has moved to just around the corner onto the Esplanade. Our generous hosts, the Magoffins will have the usual post-race brekky, where their famous sumptuous bacon and egg Magoffins will be available for a gold coin donation to the Leukaemia Foundation. This is the second Club Championship race on the 2018 program with vital handicap, open and age category points on offer.

Approximately eighty runners enjoyed the annual Mackay Road Runners Ocean International 5km & 8km Canter which was held in warm, humid conditions from the Quota Park precincts at 5.30pm. Runners revelled in the welcome cooling sea breezes as they forged their way along the east coast of Australia from Far Beach to Town beach and return. Club President, Tim Magoffin gave an informative course briefing as well as an update on recent and upcoming news within the Club.

Volunteer Timekeepers, Lindsey Wiggins and Tim Caddy together with race caller Tim Magoffin were awesome in efficiently setting runners underway based on their handicap. Runners find the Club’s handicap starts a great concept differing from scratch start races. There is a lot of work allocating members’ handicaps, clocking and processing finish times, many thanks to them for their excellent work. Once runners have registered in with the Timekeepers prior to the race, runners must then be very aware of their own individual handicap start time so that they can commence on their allocated handicap start. Thanks to Tim Magoffin for assisting runners by calling them to the start line, however, runners must also take on the responsibility of knowing their own handicap start time. Members are also reminded to always wear their timing chip and race number and be locked in with the timekeeper at least fifteen minutes prior to race start.

Highest handicap marker, Julian Picot had a great race, sprinting the entire course in his usual fashion, catching and passing approximately fifty runners to get to the finish line marginally behind a fast finishing Greame Harris. Meanwhile, the 8km Handicap winner was Erin Safe, who easily cruised over the flat course, with Shane Barben, Teresa Hackney, Stacey Tresise, Peter Ford, Joanne Ashford, Karlee Hayden, James Wortley, Glynis Forse and Ainslie Heinke following in quick succession. Kristian Safe had the company of his two children in the running pram, whilst running the entire 8km course and still finished in a very respectable time. New runners to the Club, Lauren Berts, Anna Berrigan, Lauren Dunne, Kylie Harbour, Brittany Suratman and Belinda Van Lint performed extremely well, competing to a very high standard with their more experienced peers ie Jose Short, Vicky Vickers, Carmel Mahon, Karla Hook, Jan Smith, Judy Zahn, Ashlee Scott, Carolyn Steginga, Brenda Windsor and Julie Whibley. Their male counterparts also had a great outing in the testing conditions including Leon Ryan, Luke Schatkowski, Carl Pinkstone, Scott McIntosh, Daniel Stampa, Jared Spence, Josh Eisemann, Peter Ellison, Anthony Blines, Charlie Bone, Simon Henderson, Darrin Pullen, Steve Oberg, Stuart Sprott and Tim Magoffin.

Junior runners, Rachel Silvestri, Layla Sanders, Will Morgan, Simba Walz, Leo Walz and Jess Harris were sensational in their 5km event conquering the winding pathways in their usual speedy pace. Shane Coppin claimed victory in the 5km based on his handicap start/finish, followed by Mark Pashalis, Mark Walz, Di Clulee, Jenny Smith, Simba Walz, Andrew Short, Bill Morgan, Jo Hughes and Will Morgan who rounded out the top ten handicap finishers. Excellent improvement performances came from Tam Wanstall, Arthur Dick, Paula Easton, Leanne Connor, Paul Tilse, Sandra Henderson, Ross Connor, Bernadine McKinnon, Jenny Harmer and Cilla Martland.

Congratulations to local runner, Victoria Beck who scored an amazing second placed female (1st in her age category) in the New South Wales Blue Mountains Six Foot Track 45km race (Katoomba to Jenolan Caves). Victoria was spectacular in the very tough and challenging event, finishing only minutes behind the first placed female and 33rd overall out of 882 runners.

Mackay Road Runners Publicity Officer, Janelle Tilse will be involved as a runner in next week’s Queens Baton Relay on Tuesday 20th March, where she will be running her relay section on Malcomson Street, North Mackay at 3pm. Many thanks to Skye Rettke for nominating Janelle…..she is so looking forward to the unique occasion.

This Sunday’s Mackay Road Runners K-Mart Loop 5km & 13km event commences 5pm from the Gordon White Library carpark. This race will be a scratch start, however, runners still need to adhere to the registration check in times and regular rules around arrival times, etc.
Many thanks to race day volunteers, Andrew Short, Tim Magoffin, Lindsey Wiggins, Tim Caddy and Paul Tilse….great job, week in week out!

Meanwhile, the Martel Marina Sprint 5 & 10km event named after one of the Mackay Road Runners Club’s legendary runners and Life Member, Charlie Martel, was an enjoyable social run where runners could choose an option to suit their current ability and fitness level. Many thanks to Andrew Short, Peter Wright and Paul Tilse for assisting in setting up and race day voluntary duties that is so much an integral part of the Mackay Road Runners weekly events…..so much appreciated!

Julian Picot easily completed the 10km event after notching up another easy 20km training run on the same morning. Julian lead a quality field of runners including Carl Pinkstone, George Hannaford, Hunter McGovern, Ashlee Scott, Ricky Parker, Kylie Harbour, Tim Caddy, Simba Walz, Scott McIntosh and Calvin Franklin. Despite rain free conditions throughout the event, the Breakwater course held several slippery and technical areas where runners had to be mindful of many obstacles whilst the Breakwater wall is being repaired. Runners were very aware of this and held excellent regard for their fellow runners and general public users in the same vicinity.

Congratulations to new runners of all abilities being involved and enjoying their fitness activities with like-minded individuals whilst pursuing their own goals. Excellent performances came from Veteran talents Stuart Sprott, Ricky Parker, Judy Zahn, Cilla Martland, Jan Smith and Carol Brown as well as their younger competitors, Mark Pashalis, Alan Zamparutti, Mark Walz, Karla Hook, Carmel Mahon, Carolyn Steginga, Craig McGahey, Jo Skinner, Jo Ashgrove, Sarah Jensen, Charlie Bone, Peter Ellison, Peter Ford, Jose Short, Ross Connor, Andrew Short, Shane Barben, Simon Henderson, Belinda Van Lint and Ainslie Heinke.

Runners are now looking forward to this weekend’s social 5km BMA Mackay Marina Twilight 5km run/walk as well as the first Club Championship race of the year, the annual iconic Queens Park 5km. Runners who wish to be included in handicap and club championship points need to register online to become a Member on or before the 28th February. Members will then be issued with their own individual timing chip and race number which must be worn at every handicap points/scratch start/club championship race to register your time with the timekeepers. Runners must also register on race day at least fifteen minutes before race start with the Registrar and the timekeeper. All volunteers need to pack up ten minutes prior to the race so that they can also participate in the event…consideration of this must be adhered to all times. Runners and volunteers are welcome to stay after the 5km Club Championship race for lucky random draw prizes donated by the Mackay Road Runners Club.

Members are also reminded that the Club holds monthly committee meetings to which all are warmly invited. They are held on the second Monday of each month at 5.30pm at the Techserve office in Tennyson Street, Mackay. All comments are duly noted and up for consideration by the meeting. The Club welcomes input for discussion and will be passed by obligatory majority of votes. Please contact the Committee if you would like to pass on comments if unable to attend. The Club also welcomes two new Secretaries, Julian Picot and Ashlee Scott to assist in the vital running of the Club….thank you to Julian and Ashlee as well as the 2018 incoming Committee of Tim Magoffin, Shawn Claydon, Paul Tilse, Andrew Short, Jose Short and Janelle Tilse. Thank you also for the return of regular volunteers who are but not limited to Tim Caddy, Lindsey Wiggins, Brendan Bishop, Judy Zahn, Peter Wright, Sandra Henderson, Jim Ford, Alana Ford and Derek Woods. All current and any new volunteers gratefully accepted.