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Runners take to the trails from the Eungella Chalet towards Sky Window and Broken River and return.
Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse
Thankyou Race Director Tim Magoffin for organising an excellent social 6k & 19km trail run at Eungella this morning with his very able assistant Andrew Short. Andrew then proceeded to notch another successful trail run under his already full belt.
Eungella once again showed its spectacular weather with ALOT of early morning fog and low clouds, an excellent environment to run with some like-minded individuals and then finish off with an enjoyable post run brekky at the awesome Chalet (Thank you Tony & Tess and staff’s hospitality).
Ryan Murray was scintillating over the technically difficult 19km, scorching over the course in spectacular form to claim first place. Ryan has shown exceptional talent over hilly terrain recently and today was no different. Second placed Levi Wallace was also in superb form despite the unexpected early start to collect his passengers upon leaving Mackay this morning. Craig McGahey's bronze medal performance showed what a class act he is and has been for several years. Brave efforts from Jo Skinner in the 19km displayed her toughness as a competitor after an unfortunate trip up on the track.
Rhiann Massey's 6km trail run at this location was a first for her and thoroughly enjoyable experience after a successful marathon on the Sunny Coast recently. Fran March placed 2nd behind her in a super effort from the Chalet to Sky Window and return.
Scott McIntosh's 6km golden performance was on show after the long trek from home to get to the start line by 7am. All runners and volunteers need to be congratulated for supporting each other including vital water aid station attendants, Paul Tilse, Jo Hughes, Alex Murray and Phoebe.
See you at the final handicap run on the formal calendar next Sunday morning at the Bluewater Lagoon. The annual Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy & 5km is one of the most prestigious events on the Mackay Road Runners Calendar, honouring a four time Olympian and Mackay local girl, who was and still is a very humble and exceptional athlete.
Members must start on their official handicap to be eligible for the chance to be in line for the coveted 10km perpetual trophy. All non members are always very welcome to participate for a casual day fee however, will not be eligible for the major 10km perpetual trophy prize as they have no formal club handicap. All participants and volunteers are invited to stay for a post run sausage sizzle and random draws donated by Spine Care Chiropractic.
Enjoy this great event to close the 2026 running program with the major finale to be at the Presentation/Awards Night at the Southern Suburbs Bowls Club on 24th October.
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