November 12, 2026

Mackay Road Runners Take Training To The Pool

Birthday girl, Jo Hughes (right) gets a hug from Fran March

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Mackay Road Runners Club Captain Jim Ford led more than 30 runners, swimmers and supporters through multiple laps on the track and in the pool at the ARC (Aquatic & Recreational Complex) at Ooralea this afternoon.

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Humid conditions made for a challenging session on the track, with the 30-minute pool session providing welcome relief and helping participants cool down.

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And they’re off and running in the Shawn’s Splash n Dash Summer Social Series #2 for the 2026/2027 program. Photos supplied by Mackay Road Runners

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Despite the informal, social nature of the off-season training program, The Shawn’s Splash n Dash Summer Social Series, many athletes used the mixed training session to maintain their fitness and push themselves in a fun, no-pressure environment.

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Harvey Knezevic (front left) and Oscar Hayles (pink shirt) enjoyed super performances on the track

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Participation is free and open to everyone, with no requirement to be a Mackay Road Runners member. Families, friends and sporting teams are also welcome to attend.

The ARC requires a $5 entry fee to use the facility, payable at the pool kiosk.

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Todd Turner shows great consistency on the track

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The Shawn’s Splash n Dash Summer Social Series will run every Sunday from 4.30pm throughout November, taking a break in December before returning each Sunday afternoon in January.

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Stuart McMurtrie (centre) and Alana Knezevic (right) churn up several laps in the 30 minute track session

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The series will wrap up on the final Sunday in January with a small presentation and random draw prizes, ahead of the formal 2027 Mackay Road Runners calendar.

 

Harvey Knezevic’s “that’s a long way up” look at Steven Hayles (right)

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Archer Flanagan makes light work of the most number of laps in 30 minutes

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Henry, Jess, Ella and Vivian enjoy up a great track session

Thankyou Race Director Jim Ford!

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A happy group of runners and swimmers after their excellent training session

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Contributed with thanks to Janelle Tilse

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