Annual Mackay Road Runners Shields Stampede

The Annual Mackay Road Runners Shields Stampede 5km and 12km has been a mainstay on the local running calendar for more than 30 years. The historic event, generously hosted by club life members Wendy and Merv Shields from their Mount Pleasant residence, has long challenged competitors with its undulating, twisting course through Beaconsfield and Andergrove before the descent back to the Karl Langer Crescent finish line.

Wendy and Merv have played an integral role in the longevity of the Mackay Road Runners, not only through the Shields Stampede but also as sponsors of other events, including the prestigious Eungella King and Queen of the Mountain.

As always, the post-race afternoon tea was a highlight, with Wendy providing an array of delicious snacks alongside tea and coffee. Random draw prizes were also awarded in the lead-up to Father’s Day. Thanks went to Zamp for donating Strategic Media Partners merchandise, which was well received by winners, while other lucky competitors took home Father’s Day-themed gifts that may have saved them a trip to the shops.

On the course, excellent performances were delivered across both distances. In the 12km, spectators witnessed a thrilling sprint finish as father-and-son duo Justin and Toby Rule crossed the line together, with the photo finish giving Justin the victory by the narrowest of margins. Third overall and first female was Alana Knezevic, who set a blistering pace to claim gold for the women, finishing ahead of Ashley Miles and Clinton Mackie, all breaking the one-hour barrier.

In the 5km, Roscoe McDonnell was a clear winner, finishing five minutes ahead of second overall and first female Gail Mackie. Jo Hughes and Emma Johnson rounded out the top four.

The club also acknowledged the achievements of members competing outside the region, including at the Sydney Marathon and personal challenges such as the 4x4x48 Goggins Challenge. Standout Sydney performances included Paul Mackenzie (2:58:15), Corey Gould (3:33), Leon Sant (3:44) and Jeff Shaw (4:16).

Special recognition went to Andrew Short, who was instrumental in ensuring the Shields Stampede went ahead after last-minute Ergon repair works disrupted the usual course. Andrew swiftly re-mapped the route to create a safe 5km and 12km track, organised signage, and updated maps, before completing the 12km run himself and then collecting the signage afterwards. His ongoing dedication — including maintaining club equipment — was praised by members, who described him as a true club legend.

Next on the calendar, the Mackay Road Runners will assist the crew at the Botanic Gardens Parkrun on Lagoon Street, West Mackay, for the pre-Father’s Day Parkrun this Saturday at 7am. Volunteers are asked to arrive by 6.30am for briefing. The club will not host its own event next Sunday in recognition of Father’s Day.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Mackay Road Runners long-serving members (left to right) – Jan Smith, Judy Zahn and Wendy Shields.
Alana Knezevic  (left) and Alan Zamparutti get ready to race the 12km Shields Stampede.
Approx forty runners and supporters took part in the very popular annual Shields Stampede 5k & 12k.
Justin Rule (left) hits the tape by a whisker ahead of Toby Rule.
Emma Johnson and Jo Hughes catch up after the Shields Stampede 5km.
Carmel Mahon (centre) thanks timekeepers Julie Whibley (left) and Rohan Miles for their weekly efforts. Photo credit: Janelle TIlse

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