The Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon Festival was held over the weekend with almost 500 runners pounding the footpaths and boardwalk around the foreshore.

The competitors came from all over Australia and further afield with entries from New Zealand, Scotland, and the USA.

The McDonald’s Magic Mile was the enticer on Saturday afternoon with Billy Grogan winning the men’s race and Claire Ashworth taking the cash in the women’s category.

The North Queensland Marathon Championship was the marquee event for the meet and was won by local Whitsunday Running Club member Viv Compton who broke her previous record in a time of 3:22:02.

The defending men’s champion, Justin Gibbs retained his title in a much-improved time of 2:47:40.

We had our first ever wheelchair entry this year with Chris ‘Wheelsie’ Keillor from Western Australia completing the course in a record time of 5:33:58 using a standard wheelchair.

The ‘boutique marathon’ attracted a larger field than last year and included some interesting personalities all running for various reasons.

The Tassal Group Half Marathon also saw the lady’s record broken by Canberra runner Claire Ashworth in 1:22:27.

The men’s winner was a surprise entry by Tom Ferrington from Scotland who finished just outside the record in 1:18:36.

The 2km boy’s section was won by Banjor Moser followed by Don Vinh Algie and Lucas Appleton.

The girl’s section winner was Willow Moser with Isabella Gomez second and Penelope Shields third.

The 1km girl’s category was won by Ella Maddock with runner up Alihra Karon and Aria Crawford. The boys were led home by Billy Appleton then James Gibbs and Oliver Bright.

The Event Manager, Tim McQuoid-Mason said that:

“The results achieved to today were very impressive as the south easter was howling through at about 25knotts and despite that there were two new records set by Liv Compton and Claire Ashworth.

It was great to see the community support with 40 marshals out on the course. Thank you to all the volunteers, runners, and the community for sharing the foreshore with us.”

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Whitsunday Running Club members in 10km

Mascot Race

Marathon runners

Justin Gibbs CSM

Tom Ferrington half winner from Scotland

Support gang

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The Coral Sea Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is only seven days away with a record field nominated and the event has been boosted by late news that former Netherlands superstar Lotte Wilms will be joining in the female professional field.

Wilms is now based in Sydney and is a multiple winner on the World triathlon circuit with her most recent victory in lronman Austria on June 20.

The Airlie Beach Triathlon will be her final warm-up event before heading off to the first staging of the Professional Triathletes Organisation Asian Open event in Singapore August 19 and 20.

Race director Michael Kimpton said the late entry of Wilms gives the 2023 Airlie Beach triathlon the€ strongest field in the event's history.

"But wait there’s more.... next weekend's event will also see our local star Daniel McDonnells debut as a Professional after just being granted his Professional licence by Triathlon Australia.

"As exciting as the men's and women's Pro fields with the spotlight on the first day of the festival being shone on the juniors as they race on Saturday in Under 8's, Under 10's and 11 years plus.

“It’s not too late to nominate so I encourage all juniors keen to try the sport of triathlon and jump on to our website and enrol.

"The club are humbled to be able to announce a new award, the Stirling Edwards-Bland Perpetual Junior Encouragement Award Trophy in memory of a local young athlete whose life was tragically cut short in a car accident last year.

Kimpton said events like the Coral Sea Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival do not happen without amazing support from sponsors and volunteers.

"They say it takes a village to raise a child and that is also true when staging such a huge weekend of triathlon racing.

"l want to extend our sincerest thanks to all sponsors tor their support and the club looks forward to continuing this partnership in the future and exploring now opportunities to collaborate and grow together.

"The club are still seeking volunteers so whether you are a seasoned volunteer or a newbie, your contribution will make a meaningful impact on our event and help create a memorable experience for all involved," Kimpton said.

"There are a variety of roles available, including registration, water safety positions, first aid tent, course marshalling, guidance marshals, water stations and transition area support.

"Volunteers are the backbone of any event, and it is a wonderful opportunity to connect with others and give back to our community.

"It is only with the support of our amazing volunteers that we can create an 6vent that showcases the very best of Airlie Beach.

"If anyone is interested in joining our team volunteers, I encourage you to contact our dedicated volunteer coordinator Val Kimpton, on 0438 717 819.

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Netherlands superstar Lotte Wilms will be joining in the female professional field. Photo credit: Triathlon Today

A spotlight on the first day of the festival will be shone on the juniors as they race. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Sea Eagles hosted AFLQ Pride Round at home Saturday with some fantastic clashes against North Mackay Saints in the changing wet and windy conditions.

Sea Eagles Senior Men took on ladder leaders North Mackay Saints for a tough on field battle in trying conditions.

Both teams adapted quickly in a fast-moving game that saw Sea Eagles take command when they had the wind advantage.

Saints made a hearty come back in the last quarter coming within five points of the Sea Eagles however a late goal from Leigh Sartori capped off some good work from the midfield to hold the Saints at bay 56 – 45 until the final siren.

Sea Eagles Senior Women were pumped to take on top of the ladder Saints in Pride Round looking the part with colourful guernseys supplied by the Club to symbolise inclusion for all in the great sport of AFL.

Sea Eagles pushed the Saints all day however were outgunned 7 – 57.

Game of the day went to Sea Eagles Under 17s taking on Saints in a much-anticipated top of the table clash.

After being narrowly beaten in their last encounter Sea Eagles were keen to put in a good performance in a hot start.

It proved an even contest with the lead changing hands multiple times.

The closing stages of the final quarter saw Sea Eagles display tremendous heart to repel the North Mackay attacks until the final siren rang out with Sea Eagles victorious by the narrowest of margins 53 – 52 and retaining the top spot.

Sea Eagles Under 14s took on a strong North Mackay Saints in what was always going to be a tough battle losing out 3 – 63.

In the return of Under 12s the young Sea Eagles displayed a commanding performance to post a convincing win 59 – 4.

In the second term Sea Eagles turned it on and took a commanding lead into the second half to finish strong.

This Saturday 22nd July sees all five Whitsunday Sea Eagles teams celebrate Sponsor and Volunteer Appreciation Day at home with Juniors from 9:15am, 1:50pm Senior Women, 3:20pm Senior Men.

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Sea Eagles.

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Senior Men - Billy Galpin Best on Ground for the day

U17 - Jacob Dewis under pressure from the Saints

Senior Women Pride Round guernseys. Photo Credit: Cody Fowler

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Already the days are getting longer with more daylight and although our little club did incur some intermittent issues with our cover and slight precipitation, it sure did not lose the quality of great bowling that was produced by our members and visitors this week.

Starting on Tuesday afternoon where our own Pam Collins team up with our visitor from Tweed Heads bowling club Robin Fuller to beat Els Van Soest and Brian Fuller as well as a star-studded field to be convincing winners of the day.

Wednesday afternoon Jackpot bowls well organised by Rick Galea and the very talented Merve Stewart saw 27 bowlers vying for the top prize.

The jackpot didn't go off and is building nicely.

The prestigious Health Hub award went to Sharon Callaghan to go with Robin Fuller's win on Tuesday and we thank their continued sponsorship of our little club.

Saturday morning saw Round 3 of Scroungers with first round winners John Askew, Rick Galea, Tony Whitehorn and the lovely Di Jackson playoff with the final between Rick Galea and Tony Whitehorn with Tony being crowned the winner whilst Russell Jackson had to survive a playoff with Steve Heddles to win the B division title.

Saturday afternoon and all-day Sunday saw the B Grade Pairs being played with some exhilarating performances all round, however our Chairman Ash Warland form over the weekend with great support with Ray Edwards saw them comfortably win the title with fantastic nail-biting performances.

Sunday afternoon social bowls saw 24 bowlers including Louise Woiwod, Tamara Bourke, and Luke Mensa whom have finished their lessons and ready for their first games and although a brilliant performance by Carol Crosbie with Mark Mawson and Robin Fuller the winners of the day the dice decided that it would be once again Tony Whitehorn with the vastly improved David Meiklejohn with club legend Jill Spencer taking home the money whilst the delightfully cheeky Dawn Dowell won the coveted Health Hub Award.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.

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Ray Edwards with Ash Warland the B Grade Pairs Champions

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Competition Games:

Singles: Steve Roome defeated Ian Best.

Triples: Lee Welsted, Jeoff Tierney, and Steve Roome defeated Jill Brabon, Tiarna Rogers, and Daryl Tuttle.

Wednesday Social:

Bill, Mark, and Gavin defeated Eddy, Les, and Brian.

MaryEllen, Jenny, and Ron defeated Linda, Paula, and Francis.

Mary, and Chris defeated Anna, and Mick.

Barry, Gary, and Jane defeated Marilyn, Wassa, and Barry.

Ron, Allen, and Peter defeated Lynda, Steve, and Daryl.

Sunday Social:

Winners: Stephen Gregson, Brett Lampard, and Barry Jackson.

Contributed with thanks to Joan Edwards.

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Stephen Gregson, Brett Lampard, and Barry Jackson

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Quality Games Of Bowls Played

On Wednesday we had nine players enjoying a windy afternoon of social bowls.  

Alen Sanderson, Carol Smith, and Bob Ross defeated Lee King, Arthur Griffith, and Heather Brown 20 – 14.

Philip Brown, Barry Zillmann, and Nev Smith defeated John Anderson, Barry Zillmann, and Sandy Daffara 29 - 12.

Sunday afternoon we had visitors from Womboyne join us for a game of bowls.  

Lee King, John Anderson, and Heather Brown defeated Alen Sanderson, John Anderson, and Graham Christian 19 – 15.

Arthur Griffith and Bob Ross defeated Julie Christian and Sandy Daffara 19 - 12.

Sunday morning the Final of the Club Championship Pairs was played.  

What a cliff-hanger of a game this was.  

Every shot was played with purpose and commitment, gaining shots, and covering possible conversions of the head.  

Isaac Elliott and Andrew Bell coming out as the winners on this occasion 23 - 21 against last year's "B" Pairs winners Gavin Noonan and Brett Saroglia.  

Isaac and Andrew will represent Proserpine at the Champion of Champions to be played at Marian Bowls Club on August 5 and 6.

All the best of bowls for the team of Michael Kinnear, Luchie Gardel, Grahame Kinnear, and Barry Saroglia who will be competing in the Champion of Champion 4s at Mackay Club this coming weekend.

Contributed with thanks to Heather Brown.

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Brett Saroglia, Gavin Noonan, Andrew Bell, and Isaac Elliott this year's finalists in the Club Championship 4s

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Winners for Monday Triples were K Daniels, M Drummond, and A Rolfe who defeated M Hyde, R Hyde, and N Dawson.

Runners Up for the afternoon were K Wallace, P Donohue, and S Snow who defeated Sugar, K Whitton, and G Colquhoun.

On Tuesday we had a full green for our Patroness Merle Elphinstone’s afternoon.

What a great afternoon of bowls.

Winners with the closest winning score were Marie Nesbit, Irene Laird, Jo Paynter, and Ron S who won on a countback of ends against Dianne Hallas, Pauline, Isobel Wheeler, and V Palmor.

Club Competition results: Men’s pairs M Drummond, and A Rolfe defeated Lloyd Wilson, and Steve Roome.

Ladies Crooked Kitty results Linda Scells defeated Teresa Willshire, Penny Warren defeated Bron Tolcher and Ladies Triples result Denise Wallace, Linda Scells, and Penny warren defeated R Stitt, T Willshire, and L Danvers.

We welcomed 25 barefoot bowls on Friday night all enjoying having a go at our great sport.

Winners for the night were Lori Lawrence and Teresa who defeated Kerrie Reagan and Robbie.

With another full green on Sunday winners for the afternoon were Ann K.

June Walsh, Penny Warren, and Norm Dawson who defeated Pam Breakwell Anne F, Linda Scells, and Michael Loughhead.

Next Saturday afternoon we are playing our annual challenge match between Wangaratta and the All States. This should be a great afternoon of bowls and fun.

We do enjoy the company of our visitors from the other states during the winter.

Contribute with thanks to Penny Warren.

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Winners Patroness Day:  Ron Symmons, Jo Paynter, Patroness Merle Elphinstone, Marie Nesbitt, and Irene Laird

Winners Sunday: Ann K, June Walsh, Norm Dawson, Penny Warren and President Mark Drummond.

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Wednesday’s competition was a single stableford event sponsored by Bowen Golf Club.  

Ladies’ winner on a countback was Julie Martin 39pts, runner up Anne Mason 39pts.

Mens winner Perry Davis 40pts, runner up Ron Edkins 39pts.

Saturday's competition was the Mens and Ladies 27-hole foursomes’ event kindly sponsored by Haymans Electrical.  

Mens Gross winners Jeremy Chrzanowski and Daniel Windridge, runners up Adam McGrath and Paul Martin.  

Ladies Gross winners Claire and Meg Garrod, runners up Grace and Rhiannon Nott.  

Allan Cooper won the car wash and Joy Hose and Robyn Slade both had OBPs.

COMING UP

This weekend's competition is a single stableford event sponsored by Rekenen Accountants.  

Joker is worth $3800.  

Contributed with thanks to Grace Nott.

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Mens Foursomes Gross winners and Runners up

Foursomes Nett winners and runners-up

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Laurie Dakin scored a very nice 37 pts to win the Club Tuesday Competition ahead of Paul Gray and Rehab Hull on 34 pts. Leanne Alexander won the NTP.

Beryl Nosworthy and Ann Gardel won the annual Tina Badenhorst Day with 56 points, ahead of Rehab Hull and Jacqui Wall on 55 pts, and Marlene Gray and Trish McNeill in 3rd place.

Thursday Stableford Division 1 saw Brent Franke post the winning score of 37, followed by Alen Roberts and Rob Ross on 35 pts.

Adam Tester’s wardrobe continues to grow winning Division 2 with 36 pts.

On a countback from Peter Fox, and John Wallace in 3rd place on 34 pts.

NTP winners: Jacob Nightingale, Brad Fleet x 2, and Warren Deighton.

David Lloyd was the winner of the Met 9 hole run on Friday with 19 pts, from Chris Pirlo and Andrew Albergo on 18 pts.

Andrew Albergo won the NTP.

Luke Paroz shot an easy 64 off the stick to win the MBW Stableford A Grade on 43 pts.

Chris Brett in 2nd place on 39 on a countback from Lew Tuck.

B Grade was won by Chris Pham on 39 and in 2nd place Ken Lovett on 35 pts and Warren Deighton on 34 pts.

NTP winners: Mick Kavanagh, Jack Paroz, Michael Cragg and Larry Muller.

The Ladies competition was won by Rehab Hull on 34 pts, followed by Helen Deighton and Tina Badenhorst.

NTP winners: Trish McNeill and Marlene Gray.

New member Josh Tripcony had a scorching 68 nett to win the Sunday Stableford, ahead of Clay Coles on 70 nett and Don Cameron on 71nett.

Anna Winterbourn won the ladies on 70 nett, Pam Casey won 2nd place on 74 nett and Karen Rix 3rd place.

NTP winners: Jacqui Wall, Mata Browne, Martins Kornis, and Geoff Harrison.

Contribute with thanks to Proserpine Golf Pro Shop

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Our weekly 9-hole stableford comp saw Justyn Durbin in first place with 25 pts, second place with 21pts was Perri Simpson and third on 20 pts Scott Hayes-Williams.

Fridays 9-hole stableford saw Marc Belke on first place with 23 c/b, second place with 23 pts was Scott Hayes-Williams and third place Cy Taylor with 22 pts.

Great job Gentlemen.

Sundays 18-hole stableford was a terrific day for Tyson Flavel, not only taking first place with 40 pts he also scored a hole in one on the 8th hole.

Terrific job Tyson.

Second place saw David Wallace with 36 c/b and third place with 36 pts was Josh Quin.

This Sunday 23rd July will be our 4 ball better ball club championships tee off at 10am, to book in please call 07 49461190.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Green Golf Course.

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After a couple of weeks of very light breeze, it was nice to see a 15 knot south-easterly wind blowing across Pioneer Bay for the start of last week’s Whitsunday Sailing Club twilight race.  

These events, every Wednesday afternoon, attract up to 120 locals and visitors to have a go at sailing in an organised yacht race.

In the first start, a mistake by Treasure VIII (Rob Davis) saw them returning to restart, giving the Doyle Sails sponsored best start prize to Wide Load (Shannan Hart).  

At the first rounding mark, QMS Ponyo (John Galloway) held a slender lead over Reignition (Charles Wallis), with Smooth Criminal (Leo Rodriguez) and Bobby’s Girl (Mark Beale) hot on their tale.

On the second lap, it all went wrong for Smooth Criminal, as they dropped to the back of the lead group, allowing QMS Ponyo an easy race to the finish.

Bobby’s Girl came home second, 30 seconds ahead of Reignition.  

On corrected time, QMS Ponyo took the honours over Wide Load and Reignition.

In the second start, Masquerade (Tom Vujasinovic) caught the competition napping, and led the fleet into the start.  

As usual, this did not last long as Matchless (Terry Stevens) soon took the lead, stretching out to over 4 minutes on Domino (Paul Dynes), with Shiraz (John Cable) a further 20 seconds back.  

While Masquerade kept the rest honest, Manteca (Frank Tennyson) sailed a great race to be right in the mix.  

Corrected time results, after handicaps were applied, saw Lama (Louie Tuck) take the win over Manteca and Masquerade.

In the third start, G’nome (Terry Archer) took the starting honours over Ullman Sails (Paul Mitchell), but that was the only time as Ullman Sails powered away to a convincing win both on the water and on corrected time.

Races continue every Wednesday from 4:30pm, with limited crewing positions available. Those wishing to participate as crew need to be at the club by 2:30 pm (limited spots available).

Contributed with thanks to Ross Chisholm.

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The weekend started on the Friday night with our Divisional Men coming away with two losses despite strong performances.

The div2 men put up a respectable fight but as has happened for most of the season, goals were elusive, and the good periods of possession went unrewarded.

The div2 men went down 4-0.

The div1 men started strong against the second placed Wanderers side, going into the half 1-1. Unfortunately, a goal to the Wanderers in the first minutes of the second half deflated the home side and compounding errors in the second half saw the div men walk away with a 6-1 loss.

Saturday started off with Under 13 div 1 putting on an impressive display against a determined Dolphins outfit.

Leading 2 nil at the break, the second half proved a lot more productive for the home side playing impressive football to add another 5 goals – a great 7-0 win for a side constantly improving.

U13 Premier had a harder slog against a well organised Dolphins side.

The second half was very even and added no score – a 3-0 loss but a great effort by the side.

U15 Div1 played Magpies with both sides putting up a hard fight.

Goals by Freddie Hazleton and Cohen Springbett put the home side up 2-0 at half time.

The U15 Prem side also secured a strong win against Dolphins which secures them a place in the finals. The 3-2 win was impressive against the team placed second in the comp.

The Premier Women also played out a competitive 1-1 draw against top placed Lions. Despite maintaining possession for much of the game, the ladies found themselves 1-0 down early in the first half when a deflection gifted Lions a goal against the run of play.

There were many strong performances, however special mention must be made to goal keeper Chloe who made outstanding saves in crucial moments and Violet who shut down countless Lions attacks and created many opportunities through her midfield runs.

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Whitsunday United taking on big competition across the region. Photo supplied

State of Origin series-winning captain Daly Cherry-Evans is the toast of Queensland after his inspirational deeds for the Maroons this season in the representative arena.

Like a good wine, the Mackay native and St Patrick’s College graduate gets better with age and has struck a purple patch of form in 2023 since returning from the United Kingdom with Australia’s all conquering World Cup-winning rugby league squad.

Now a new wave of local Mackay juniors are ready to stamp their mark in the Under 19 Origin interstate and Secondary Schools challenge fixtures.

Promising Mackay Cutters utility back Kai Simon was named 19th man for the Queensland Under 19s squad that locked horns with NSW this week at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium.

In the early game, talented Cutters five eighth Emily Bella lined up for the Maroons Under 19s team against the Blues along with rising Mackay and North Queensland Cowboys centre Libby Surha and 17-year-old middle forward Lily Peacock.

Simon and Bella are products of the famous St Patrick’s College rugby league nursery as are boom Maroons’ Emerging Origin trio Jaxon Purdue, Xavier Kerrisk and Paityne Johns who experienced mixed fortunes at last week’s Australian Secondary Schools Under 18 National Championships in Brisbane.

The crafty Johns played second fiddle to Australian Schoolgirls hooker Nadia Windleborn in the Queensland side that finished runners up to NSW Combined High Schools in the Girls Championship final.

An outstanding number nine with skill and vision, Paityne produced strong performances when used as an interchange player by the Maroons who lost their only match in the trophy decider.

She starred for her junior club Magpies and the Cutters’ Under 19s before joining the Mackay BMD Premiership squad as a development player during the 2023 finals series.

Her immediate goal is to secure an NRLW contract with the North Queensland Cowboys.

Purdue and Kerrisk are the hottest two prospects in the Cutter’s ranks and will spearhead St Patrick’s bid for the Aaron Payne Cup schoolboys championship.

Both are contracted to the Cowboys and were key members of the Queensland Schoolboys team that won the Under 18 Pool A second v Pool B second final at the Australian Secondary Schools National Boys Championships.

Kerrisk, one of the best young hookers to burst on the Queensland scene, managed to play a mere 20 minutes in a 30-6 opening round loss to NSW Combined Catholic Colleges before being heavily concussed and ruled out of the Carnival.

Purdue turned in skilful performances at five eighth and scored two tries in a 26-6 victory over Combined Affiliated States to earn the Player of the Match award.

He followed it up with a strong showing in the Maroons’ emphatic 46-4 triumph over ACT.

By Chris Karas

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St Patrick’s College rugby league stars Xavier Kerrisk, Paityne Johns and Jaxon Purdue represented Queensland at the Australian Secondary Schools Under 18 National Championships in Brisbane. Photos supplied

Queensland Secondary Schools five eighth Jaxon Purdue receives his Player of the Match award from Melbourne Storm official Tim Glasby

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The highly anticipated King and Queen of the Mountain event took place last weekend, putting the endurance and strength of both runners and cyclists to the ultimate test as they tackled the steep inclines of the Eungella Range. With gradients reaching approximately 12 per cent, the challenge proved to be gruelling for all participants.

The Eungella National Park, standing at an impressive 732 meters above sea level (2400 ft), provided a formidable backdrop for the combined running and cycling event. While the event itself has been running for several years, the running race has a longstanding history of approximately thirty years. Among the legendary runners, current male record holder Charlie Martel has reigned supreme, having won the race an astonishing 13 times. His record-setting time of 27 minutes and 51 seconds, established in 1991, remains unbroken and further solidifies his legendary status. Although unable to attend this year's event, Charlie continues to reside in the Mackay area.

In the Open 6.4km foot race, the male winner and reigning champion was Cristian Smith, successfully defending his title for another year. Jason Bourke finished in second place, trailing by less than a minute, followed closely by rising junior talents Luke Leven and Oliver Rule. Among the females, Alana Knesevic claimed the crown, finishing an impressive 8th overall. Jose Short, Carolyn Mapes, and Mel Esau also showcased their remarkable abilities. In the junior 3.2km category, Abi Sweeney secured the gold for the girls, with Lily Leven following closely behind. Toby Rule added another title to his extensive resume in the boys' division. Podiatry Mackay generously provided cash prizes for the junior winners, while Rebel vouchers, donated by Veronica Pettifer in memory of her daughter Laura, sponsored the event for the 16th consecutive year.

In the cycling segment of the event, visiting rider Tyler Tomkinson from the Balmoral Cycling Club claimed the prestigious title of King of the Mountain. Brendon Brauer and Ashley Brownsey from Mackay took second and third respectively. Tracy Borchardt dominated the women's category, securing the well-deserved crown of Queen of the Mountain with a remarkable time of 29 minutes and 18 seconds. Tenille Galea and Rebecca Baird, also from the Mackay Cycling Club, displayed their exceptional endurance and claimed the second and third positions.

The event showcased exceptional performances from first-time Eungella runners, including international athlete Graeme Lister, as well as local participants James Leonard, Madeleine Simmons, Lauren Connor, Crystal Hawkins, and Toni Enright. All participants, both runners and cyclists, were treated to delicious breakfasts at the Chalet, along with the chance to win fantastic random draw prizes donated by Eungella Chalet, Eungella Cabins, Bunnings, Mackay Cycling Club, and Mackay Road Runners.

For cyclists, maintaining momentum on the sharp pinches was crucial to avoid coming to a standstill. Competitors were seen stretching on the side of the road, battling cramps during the hour-long drive back to Mackay after the demanding race, while some decided to treat themselves to a world-famous Pinnacle Pie on their journey home.

Next Sunday, the Mackay Road Runners event will be a social 5/10km taking place at the Bluewater Quay due to the Airlie Beach running festival. Those who are staying in town can enjoy a relaxed and informal 4pm start for their Sunday run.

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Female open and junior Queens of the Mountain, Alana Knesevic and Abigail Sweeney with male junior and open King winners, Toby Rule and Cristian Smith

Scott McIntosh (left) and Andrew Wallace barely notice the amazing views as they enjoy the challenging 6.4km ascent from Netherdale to the Eungella Chalet

Mick Vivian with his signature grin going up Eungella Range

Luke Leven finished in third position

Shane Edwards takes a second to appreciate the view while ascending the range

Some riders enjoyed the social aspect of the event, taking time to pop a wheely in front of one of the many waterfalls

Cycling Queen of the Mountain podium: L-R: Rebecca Baird, Tracy Borchardt, Tenille Galea

Cycling King of the Mountain podium: L-R: Brendon Brauer, Tyler Tompkinson, Ashley Brownsey

Isabelle Cahill, Riley Green, Camden Brownsey and Caleb Caldwell are talented up-and-coming cyclists who completed the climb up the Eungella Range.

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Photos by Janelle Tilse and Amanda Wright

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Veteran Mackay Meteors basketball forward Bradley Rassmussen remains a vital cog in the club’s NBL1 North Conference finals charge.

The popular stalwart leader celebrated his 300-game milestone last Friday night by helping the Meteors register a vital 89-77 victory over the North Gold Coast Seahawks at Mackay Basketball Stadium.

It was a match to savour for the long serving Rassmussen – now in his 16th season with the Meteors – and just three days shy of his 39th birthday.

His court time was limited to five minutes where he picked up three rebounds with the crowd favourite receiving thunderous applause from diehard supporters waving Rassmussen placards.

The 12-point triumph improves Mackay’s record to 11-8 in their quest for the play-offs.

Leading the way was Meteors trump card Isaac White who produced 30 points, 13 rebounds, nine assists and three steals in yet another superb performance.

The Mackay skipper was ably supported by talented guard Tyler Williams who contributed 20 points, three rebounds and three assists; forward Christian Maran (15 points, four boards and two assists); exciting guard Isaiah Lee (eight points and three rebounds) and DJ Baptiste (five points and 12 rebounds).

The tenacious Seahawks pushed the Meteors all the way and trailed by seven points at the first break; 48-37 at half time and by twelve points at the end of the third stanza.

Former Meteors guard Biwali Bayles turned in a strong display against his old club - posting 24 points, nine assists, three rebounds, three steals and two blocks for North Gold Coast with US import Wesley Harris contributing 16 points and 12 boards, Kody Stattmann 15 points and seven rebounds, Josh Duach 12 points and Majok Majok (10 points and 11 rebounds).

In the early game, North Gold Coast Seahawks stayed in finals contention with a thrilling 95-90 victory over the Mackay Meteorettes.

Classy guard Alexa Held proved the difference - registering 37 points, three assists and three steals in a top display for the Seahawks.

Mackay led by four points with 1:15 to play after a spectacular jumper from Denesha Bobongie but it was short-lived.

Carly Remmos hit a three-pointer for North Gold Coast soon after before then also scoring inside and Held stretched the lead to three with seconds to play.

Two free-throws from Bride Kennedy-Hopoate sealed a five-point victory for the visitors who improved to a 9-7 record to remain inside the top eight.

Erin Riley (21 points, 11 rebounds, five assists and three assists), Emma Gandini (16 points and five steals), Kennedy-Hopoate (eight points and two board) and Remmos (seven points and five rebound) also impressed for the Seahawks.

The Meteorettes were best served by Davida Dale (19 points, 12 rebounds, seven assists and three steals) with the gifted Bobongie adding 19 points, five blocks, four rebounds, four assists and three steals and Brittany Reeves (19 points, 17 boards and three assists).

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Brad Rassmussen notched up game number 300 last Friday

The Meteorettes fell short of the Gold Coast Seahawks in a high-scoring game at the Crater last Friday night. Photo credit: Keiron Place Photography

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