The Whitsunday Trail Festival, hosted by the Whitsunday Running Club on 14 September, saw a record number of entries with 250 runners registered across five races ranging from 700m to 58km through the Conway Ranges between Brandy Creek and the Airlie Beach foreshore.

Local athletes put in strong performances against tough competition from Townsville and Mackay.

Both course records in the Honeyeater Shokz Challenge 11km were broken, with Aimee Sulzberger (Whitsunday Running Club) and Brendan Maltby (Bowen) setting new bests. In the WTF28 Anaconda Whitsunday Trail, Liv Compton (Whitsunday Running Club) claimed second place, while Inaki Igibar (Hamilton Island) secured third.

Demi Caldwell (Mackay) bettered her own 2023 record in the WTF28, finishing in 2:27:19. The men’s division was taken out by Jeff Rubach (Townsville) in 2:23:09.

The marquee event, the WTF58 Accom Whitsundays Ultra, was won by Ruth Eagles (Annandale) and Abela Bertrand (Parramatta Park).

In the Bendigo Community Bank Kids Beach Bash, locals dominated with Shailee Mewha first, her sister Lilah second, and Willow Kenny third. In the boys’ division, Alex Wakerley crossed the line ahead of Kane Higgins and Calvin Murphy.

The Bendigo Community Bank Junior Kids Beach Bash over 700m saw Jack Turner claim victory ahead of Finlay Wood and Cooper Konopka, while Bella Germona edged out Freya Fowler and Ivy Rubach in the girls’ race.

Adding to the fun, the Mascot Race delivered plenty of laughs as Gavin the Frog (Big 4 Adventure Park) hopped to victory ahead of Piggy (Bendigo Community Bank), Blazer (Old Fire Dept Koala), Bungaroo (Cannonvale State School Turtle), Cruiser (Cruise Whitsundays Turtle), Hogster (Hog’s Breath Café), Turbine (Whitsunday Regional Council Disaster Management Octopus), and Paddy (SES Platypus).

Event Manager Andrea Farley said the weather was perfect on the day.

“It was a fabulous cool day for racing and there were some amazing achievements with three new records set," they said.

"A big thank you goes out to the SES for their assistance throughout the day, along with all the volunteers and Whitsunday Running Club members who helped make the event such a success.”

Contributed with thanks to Tim McQuoid-Mason

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The Paul Bowman Cup over the weekend was the biggest yet. 88 teams from across Queensland travelled to Proserpine to compete in the u8's competetion.

88 teams, 1200 kids, and families visited the region, many of which decided to kick start their school holidays by spending time in the region. A huge economic boost!

The Sam Faust relay had its biggest race to date and organisers look forward to seeing the event grow again.

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Grand final day is always a special occasion at our club – one that every player aspires to be part of.

Its ability to draw not just a crowd, but also to bring family, friends and the wider community together, was evident on Sunday afternoon at Mulligans Airlie Beach. The room was alive with excitement and energy.

Three crucial matches were contested, each with plenty at stake.
The day began with the 3rd vs 4th playoff between Kam Reason and Joe Wilson. Joe held a commanding 6–2 lead, but Kam fought back bravely to level at 6–all. However, Joe delivered under pressure, hitting two timely 171s to close out the match 8–6.

Next up was the consolation final for 7th and 8th place, featuring Scott Edmonds and Naomi Mitchell. The pair traded legs early, locked at 3–all, before Scott pulled away to record a 6–3 victory – his first piece of silverware at the club.

The headline event was the Premier League Grand Final, a best-of-21-leg clash between league winner Jamie Maher and debutant Reef Peel.
Jamie took the opening leg, but Reef quickly seized control, storming to a 6–1 lead midway through the second interval. Showing trademark grit, Jamie fought back to level at 6–all and then edge ahead 7–6. Reef steadied, levelling at 7–all, before claiming the pivotal 15th leg to go into the final break 8–7 ahead. From there, he never looked back, reeling off the remaining legs to secure an 11–7 win and the Premier League Championship in his debut season.

It was a brave and determined effort from Jamie, but the day belonged to Reef, who thoroughly deserved his victory.

Congratulations to all involved, and a special thank you to the supporters who created such an incredible atmosphere. Gratitude also goes to our valued sponsors – Mika, Whitsunday Tattooing, Dyson Automotive, Shirtfront Solutions and Master Butchers – for their continued support.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher

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Reef Peel claiming his first Premier League title. Photo supplied

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Swimmers from across the region will soon descend on one of the Whitsundays’ most famous locations, with the Whitehaven Open Water Swim set for Sunday 5 October.

Hosted by the North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club, and Masters Swimming Queensland, the event takes place over the King’s Birthday long weekend and offers a unique opportunity to race in the pristine waters of Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island.

The program caters to a variety of abilities, with three race distances on offer. For those new to the sport, the 500-metre swim provides a manageable introduction to open water racing, while the 1-kilometre and 2-kilometre events are designed for more experienced competitors.

Open to participants aged 18 years and older, the day promises not only exciting racing but also the chance to enjoy the beauty of the Whitsundays in a relaxed social setting. Each entry includes a return ferry transfer from Shute Harbour and lunch on Whitehaven Beach. For family and friends, a limited number of guest tickets are also available, giving supporters the opportunity to enjoy the day alongside competitors.

The Whitehaven Open Water Swim has become a highlight on the North Mackay Sinkers’ calendar, drawing swimmers who value both the challenge of ocean racing and the spectacular setting of the Whitsundays.
Organisers are reminding interested swimmers that registrations close on September 28. Entries can be completed online via Race Results, ensuring a streamlined process for competitors.

Further details about the event can be found on the Masters Swimming Queensland website, or by contacting the North Mackay Sinkers directly at prs.nthmackaysinkers@gmail.com.

With its combination of sport, sunshine, and one of the world’s most photographed beaches, the Whitehaven Open Water Swim is set to deliver another memorable day in the Whitsundays.

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After being postponed for a week due to strong winds, the Whitsunday Game Fish Club’s Billfish and Tuna Rally was held last weekend in near-perfect conditions.

Ten club boats hit the water on Saturday morning, heading out behind the islands and finding action early. A couple of crews hooked billfish within the first few hours but unfortunately lost them after short fights, with similar tales of missed opportunities continuing across much of the fleet.

Despite the setbacks, there were standout performances. Tony Wilson tagged and released two black marlin and one sailfish to claim Champion Male. Marlene Hicks was named Champion Lady with a tagged sailfish, while Zac Trefz impressed to take out Champion Junior, tagging both a black marlin and a sailfish.

The solid activity is a positive sign ahead of the Airlie Beach Tackle World/Daiwa Light Tackle Tournament, to be held from 16–19 October. Boat numbers for the tournament will be capped at 35, with registrations now open via the club’s website at whitsundaygfc@gmail.com.

The tournament will feature men’s, ladies’, junior and smallfry divisions, with a huge range of prizes on offer thanks to the support of generous sponsors. Teams must consist of two to five anglers, all of whom need to be financial members of a Game Fish Club affiliated with the GFAA. Membership forms for the Whitsunday Game Fish Club are available online.

This promises to be one of the highlight events of the year, and anglers are encouraged to get their teams organised early to avoid missing out.

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore

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Zac Trefz champion Junior Billfish angler with $250 Airlie Tackle World voucher.

Andrew Smart Tuna winner.

Photos supplied

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Grand final weekend saw Whitsunday United FC proudly represented across three divisions in Mackay, with the U16s, Division 1 men, and U23s all taking the field in their season deciders.

The U16s opened the weekend on Friday night against a strong Magpies FC outfit. Whitsunday started brightly, with Jacob Godden finishing from a perfectly placed Sam Frumento free kick to take an early lead. Magpies quickly equalised before edging ahead just before halftime. Despite a determined second-half effort, Whitsunday were unable to level the score, and Magpies sealed the contest with a third goal, finishing 3-1. While the result wasn’t in their favour, the U16s can be proud of their resilience and teamwork throughout the season, with reaching the grand final itself a fantastic achievement.

Later that night, the Division 1 men looked to avenge last year’s grand final defeat to Mackay Lions. Whitsunday dominated the first half, creating several chances and hitting the post before finally breaking through after 30 minutes. The 1-0 scoreline at the break hardly reflected their control of the match. Lions stuck to their long-ball tactics after halftime, frustrating Whitsunday and eventually earning a contentious late penalty. Keeper Gary Browne saved the spot-kick, but was ruled off his line. Despite the whistle having gone, Lions were controversially awarded a rebound goal, forcing extra time. Whitsunday responded superbly, capitalising on counterattacks and scoring in both halves of extra time to claim a 3-1 victory and secure the title. Their outstanding season was further recognised with the Community Team of the Year award, a testament to their determination, fair play, and spirit.
Saturday’s U23 grand final against City Brothers proved the most thrilling contest of the weekend. Whitsunday struck first through relentless pressing by Aaron Kinsella, but Brothers equalised before halftime. The second half saw Whitsunday under pressure, with Gary Browne producing crucial saves to keep them in the contest. Alex McMahon came agonisingly close to a late winner, his shot rebounding off the woodwork to send the game into extra time.

The breakthrough came in the second half of extra time, when Oisin Sherlock produced a moment of brilliance, scoring from a tight angle to send Whitsunday fans into raptures. The closing stages were fiercely contested, highlighted by Max O’Keefe’s bravery in blocking a dangerous attack, even taking a blow to the head that resulted in a red card for the Brothers striker. Whitsunday held firm to win 2-1, securing both the Premiership and Grand Final double in a memorable season.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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Division 1 Men – celebrating a great season and dominant Grand Final Victory over Lions. Photo supplied

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On Tuesday, the club congratulated Irene Laird on reaching Super Veteran status in bowls. President Margaret presented Irene with her Bowls QLD Super Veteran badge to mark the milestone. Irene has been a valued member of the club for 15 years, with many more years of bowling still ahead.

In Tuesday’s competition, winners were Shirley Jones and Shirley Smith, who defeated Bron Tolcher and Graham Smith. Other results saw Lindy Suann and Deb Retchless defeat Cliff Querro and Marg Wilson, while Sue Shearing, Gordon Querro and Penny Warren overcame Bill Myers, Irene Laird and Laurie Land. The jackpot was not claimed.

The final of the Mixed Triples was also played this week, with the team of Robyn Stitt, Isobel Wheeler and Mark Drummond defeating Steve Roome, Tracey White and Lloyd White.

Sunday’s social play produced close contests. Isobel Wheeler and Gavin Charles defeated Bron Tolcher and Greg Smith, while Lindy Suann and Penny Warren claimed a win over Deb Retchless and Mark Drummond. Toni Bowen, Jim Quod and Pat Tracey played out a draw against Gordon Querro, Cliff Querro and Karen Smith. The jackpot once again went unclaimed.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Mixed Triples Winners 2025 - Isobel Wheeler Mark Drummond and Robyn Stitt.

Irene Laird (Super Veteran) with President Margaret Wilson.

Photos supplied

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Airlie Beach Bowls Club enjoyed a full week of action on the greens, headlined by Shane Spann’s victory in the Club Singles Championship.

Spann faced ladies’ champion Ladda Purdie in the decider, played over three 10-end games. The first ended in a thrilling 8-all draw, but Spann’s accuracy and consistency proved too strong as he went on to claim the next two games and be crowned the 2024 Club Champion. Widely regarded as one of the best draw bowlers in the district, Spann added another title to his name in fine style.

Social bowls also drew strong numbers. Tuesday afternoon saw 22 players take part, with the winning pair of the day being skipper Tony Whitehorn and Alan Pershouse. On Wednesday afternoon, Whitehorn again featured, this time teaming with David Meiklejohn and Glen O’Brien for a commanding 35–16 win.

Wednesday night’s Business House Bowls attracted nearly 60 players, with the finals scheduled for this week before the school holiday break. Results will be reported in the next edition.

In other events, Saturday morning Scroungers went to Andy McDougall, while Kathryn Remmeswaal took out B Grade. The B Fours semi-final saw the team of skipper Merv Stewart, Denis Donnadelli, Mark Mawson and Eric Barnard overcome the fancied side of Ash Warland 21–13.

The Men’s Two Bowl Triples was dominated by Spann once again, skipping alongside Harry Quad and Warland for a comfortable win over Warren Mills’ team.

Sunday’s social bowls wrapped up the week, with Fiona Greener winning the meat tray and the team of Steve Heddles, Maureen Barnard and Mawson finishing as winners on the green.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Warm conditions signalled the arrival of summer as Proserpine Golf Club hosted another busy week of competition across all grades.

The Vets opened on Tuesday, with Proserpine hosting the Whitsunday Group. John Oates led the men with 38 points, ahead of Allen Roberts and Vic Feldman, while Paula McQuat claimed the ladies’ win with 33 on countback from Elspeth Scotford.

Wednesday’s stableford saw strong scores, with Jett Borghero and Scott Mason each posting 36 points in the men’s event, Borghero prevailing on countback. In the ladies’ field, Ann Gardel edged out Leanne Alexander with 36 points on countback, while Jenny Hounsell placed third on 34.

Thursday’s medley competition produced one of the week’s top performances, with Steven Clare carding 40 points to take out A Grade. John Dodds secured the B Grade with 38, while visitors also featured on the leaderboard, including Deborah Brown from South West Rocks Country Club.

On Friday, the nine-hole run sponsored by the Metropole Hotel went to Toni Clauss with 21 points, ahead of Nigel Dray. The “Putt for Cash” jackpot reached $600, but despite being drawn, Troy Pettiford was unable to sink the putt, rolling the prize over to $650 for next week.

Saturday’s stableford, sponsored by Allenbuild, delivered tight contests. In A Grade, Gary Scotford prevailed with 36 points on countback from Steve Hickey and Rob Stanley.

Joe Marschke topped B Grade with 38. The ladies’ event was decided on multiple countbacks, with Elspeth Scotford emerging the winner on 34 points from Sandra Goldsworthy, Toni Clauss and Trish McNeill.

The week wrapped up on Sunday with Aaron Prosser producing a standout round of 40 points to take the win, followed by Clay Coles and Danny York on 37.

Full results are available on GolfLink.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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The Proserpine Veterans hosted the penultimate competition of the Whitsunday Veterans Group last week, attracting 65 players from Home Hill, Collinsville, Ayr and Bowen.

Despite threatening skies, the competition was completed without interruption from rain.
John Oates claimed the men’s title with 38 points, while Allen Roberts finished runner-up on 34 points, edging out Vic Feldman, John Grosskreutz and Gary Scotford on countback.

In the ladies’ event, Paula McQuat secured victory with 33 points, just ahead of Elspeth Scotford, also on 33, with Anna Winterbourn third on 32.

Pin shot winners were Judi Sheehan (Home Hill) on hole 5, Annie Mason (Bowen) on hole 9 and Tiina Randmae (Proserpine) on hole 16. For the men, David Ingold (Home Hill) took hole 2, Larry Muller (Proserpine) hole 7 and Neale Mahoney (Ayr) hole 13.

The final round of the Croker Shield will be held in Proserpine next Tuesday, marking the last opportunity of the year to claim the trophy.

Contributed with thanks to Paula McQuat

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Last Saturday, the Bakers Creek Tigers Senior Women’s AFL team played at the Great Barrier Reef Arena and came away with a thrilling Grand Final victory. The Tigers faced off against the Moranbah Bulldogs and secured the win, marking another milestone for the local club.

Community Bank Sarina, major supporters of the Tigers, said, “Congratulations to the Bakers Creek Tigers AFL Women's team who took away the Grand Final Win last weekend! As major supporters of the club, we love seeing this local club go from strength to strength - well done ladies!”

The win caps off a remarkable season for the Tigers and highlights the growing strength and skill of women’s football in the region.

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2025 Women's AFL Team - Bakers Creek Tigers. Photo source: Bakers Creek Tigers AFL (Facebook)

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Over the last few weeks, Mackay parkrun has been a hotbed of record-breaking performances, with runners of all ages smashing personal bests and age category benchmarks at the community-run 5km event held every Saturday at 7am.

Age Category Milestones

Zoe Woodward celebrated her 250th parkrun while smashing her own SW30-34 Age Category Record by 16 seconds, setting a new benchmark of 18:55.

Tayah Manttan continued her remarkable form in the JW15-17 category, lowering her own record by a further 38 seconds to go sub-19 minutes, finishing in 18:54. Earlier reports also noted her previous achievement of trimming her record to 19:32 – a testament to her ongoing improvement.

New Course Record

Jared Havemann made history by becoming the first runner to complete Mackay parkrun in under 16 minutes. His blistering 15:54 finish equates to an average pace of 3:11/km, setting a new course benchmark for speed.

Other Age Category Records

Three additional age category records were set:

SM20-24 – Jared Havemann, 15:54
SW18-19 – Ella Chappell, 21:09
SW45-49 – Skye Perkins, 18:25

Congratulations to all runners for their exceptional performances and for keeping the Mackay parkrun community vibrant and inspiring.

Looking for a great way to kick off the weekend? Mackay parkrun welcomes everyone to walk, jog, or run 5km at their own pace – it’s fun, friendly, and completely free!

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Over the past few weeks, Mackay parkrun has seen multiple runners smash personal and age category records, including a sub-16-minute course finish, highlighting the community event’s spirit, speed, and inclusivity. Photo source: Mackay Parkrun (Facebook)

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Sunset Bay Outriggers have been on the road again, testing their skills against the best paddlers in North Queensland, with 17 paddlers making the seven-hour journey to Mission Beach.

And the club did not come home disappointed.

Both the men’s and women’s crews struck gold in the marathon races, overcoming challenging water conditions.

Conditions worsened for the Senior Master Mixed crew’s marathon, but they held on to claim a silver medal for their efforts.

The women paddlers made the most of the opportunity to enter as many 500m sprints as possible, giving them valuable training ahead of their Nationals campaign in November.

All women’s and men’s crews medalled across the weekend.

Paddlers of the Saturday, Kim Alloway and Nicole Reseck, rode the waves home to collect another gold in the OC2 4km.

In the OC1 4km event, Graham Townson took gold, Bryan Wilkinson secured gold, and Mark Bell earned bronze.

On Sunday, worsening wind and water conditions meant only the brave and the “Crazies” of outrigger racing took to the water in either a 20km or 12km course.

Sunset Bay paddlers once again rose to the challenge, with Bryan Wilkinson and Steph Lomas taking gold in the OC2 20km. In the OC1 12km, Andrew Batterson claimed silver and Peter Drew also earned silver. Wilkinson and Lomas were named Paddlers of the Sunday.

The club is now turning its focus to the Australian National Sprint Titles, to be held in Coomera from November 13–16.

To support the journey to Nationals, Sunset Bay is hosting a Trivia Night on Friday, October 24, at 6:30pm upstairs at Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club. Tickets are $25 per person and can be booked through Eventbrite.

Anyone wishing to help Sunset Bay’s senior and junior paddlers get to the Nationals can contact Renee on 0412 448 805.

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Sunset Bay Outriggers paddled to multiple medals at Mission Beach and now look ahead to the National Sprint Titles in November. Photos supplied

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Wet and windy conditions did not deter more than 30 runners who lined up for the Mackay Road Runners’ Jo’s 70 Steps 5km and 10km event from the Gordon White Library carpark.

The loop course featured the demanding hills of Pollock and High Streets for the 5km, with 10km competitors doubling up for an extra loop. Timekeepers Rohan Miles and Julie Whibley kept results on track despite the conditions.

In the handicap start 5km, Gail Mackie claimed first place ahead of Steve Hayles, Jo Hughes, Emily Hayles, Jim Perkins, Kayla Waugh and Judy Zahn. Judy’s effort was notable as she backed up from a Table Tennis Tournament the previous day and was due to compete in the championships’ final day that afternoon. Natasha and Craig Joynson crossed eighth and ninth consecutively, followed by Kim Saron, Leanne Connor and David Isbister. Judy also appreciated Craig’s help through a slippery section of the course.

The 10km runners faced two loops, with Jeff Pearce taking line honours from his handicap start, finishing three minutes clear of juniors Toby Rule and Max Miles. They were followed by Justin Rule, Jeremy Taylor, Andrew Wallace, Alan Zamparutti, Derek Woods, Clinton Mackie and Jared Mackie. Carolyn Mapes was the first female, finishing ahead of Jose Short, Andrew Short, Stephen Oberg and Ashley Miles.

Cool and wet conditions saw runners and volunteers pack up quickly, with thanks to all helpers including Ashley Miles, who assisted after completing his own race.

Next Sunday’s run will be a social 5km and 10km from Bluewater Quay at 4pm, scheduled around the Whitsunday Trail Running Festival in Airlie Beach and the start of school holidays. Members and non-members are welcome.

In out-of-town racing, junior athlete Toby Rule delivered outstanding results at the School Sport Australia National Cross Country. He finished as the third Queenslander, fifth Australian and sixth overall, winning gold in the team event and another gold in the 18–19 years relay. Toby now turns to the Track and Field season, competing at the ANQ North Queensland Championships in Townsville during the September holidays in the 3000m steeplechase, 800m, 1500m and 5000m. He will then race at the QRSS Championships in late October at the All Schools Nationals before trialling for the World Cross Country Championships in November, aiming for selection in the Australian Under-20 team. Balancing these commitments with his final year of school, Toby continues to impress with his dedication.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

(left to right) Justin Rule, Clinton Mackie, Jared Mackie, Steve Hayles, Derek Woods and Gail Mackie collectively display over $2,000 worth of running shoes

Veteran running legend Judy Zahn took on a hive of athletic activity over the weekend with a Saturday/Sunday Table Tennis Tournament and Mackay Road Runners 5km Sunday morning

Toby Rule and Justin Rule battle it out in Jo’s 70 Steps 10km at the halfway turnaround point

Natasha and Craig Joynson are always smiling as they cross the finish line in unison

Jeff Pearce finished a sensational 10km run via the Jo’s 70 Steps handicap start, a challenging event

Emily Hayles takes out 4th overall in the Jo’s 70 Steps Handicap start 5km. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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Mackay Cycles XCO Series 2 Delivers

Mackay’s mountain biking community turned up the gears for the Mackay Cycles XCO Series 2, with riders of all ages battling tough trails and clocking impressive times. The event, held on September 13, saw fast racing, strong finishes, and plenty of local pride across every grade.

In the E-Bike categories, Zac Schwarzrock dominated the men’s field, completing five laps in 1:30:45, while Mel Maddison-Stanton powered to victory in the women’s race.

The hotly contested A Grade saw Ethan Weiss edge out fellow riders with a four-lap time of 1:20:14 in the men’s race, while elite road and MTB rider Ruth Corset claimed the women’s crown in 1:21:27.

B Grade Men went to Max Teague, whose consistency across three laps earned him the top step, while Naomi Ballard topped the B Grade Women division. In C Grade Men, Camden Brownsey led the pack, finishing just ahead of Eddie Rose and Scott Bennett.

The D Grade Men race was won by Ethan Green, and in the women’s field Isabella Land rode strongly to secure first place.

Juniors showed off the sport’s exciting future. Oaklan Marwood impressed in the U13 Boys, while Toby Maitland raced clear in the U11 Boys and Stella Goodwill shone in the U11 Girls. The U9 Boys produced some of the closest racing of the day, with Sacha Sawtell just holding off Ged Rafferty by three seconds.

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Photo source: Mad Mountain Bike Club

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