Thursday, August 24, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Road Runners Hit The Trails

The Mackay Road Runners embarked on their first trail run of the year on Sunday, traversing the stunning surrounds of the Eungella National Park.

Nearly sixty runners took on the trail, choosing between 5km and 18km distances, as well as a 2km kids race for junior Road Runners.

After meeting members of the Lost Bunyips Trail Enthusiasts at the beautiful Eungella Chalet, runners left the lush Chalet lawns and scenic vistas, headed for the hills.

The sky above alternated between threatening grey and clear blue, with misty clouds and intermittent rain bringing damp and tricky conditions to the trails underfoot.

Runners were tested by the unpredictable terrain, with some runners hitting the dirt before getting themselves back up and rallying home to show off their battle scars.

Kaylene Gardner had a spectacular day on the track, finishing first in the female 18km after setting a steady pace throughout her race and finishing strong.

While Alex Couldrey was looking sure to cross the line first in the male 18km, a slight wrong turn saw Joe Grech overtake him around halfway with Joe taking the gold medal position.

Excellent performances from the rest of the 18km field included Thomas Wendt, Paul Mackenzie, Emily Dalglish, Carmel Grech, Matt Graves, Leon Ryan, Ryan Evetts, Mitchell Evetts, Robin Stinson, Graeme Harris, Raymond Borg, Tas Webber, Pam Houston, Emily Wicks, Greg Dawes, Shane Edwards, June Bradley, and Scott Todd.

5km runners were off and racing as well with Derek Woods bolting from the gun with Matt Mapes, Carolyn Mapes, Carole Dawes, Mel Harris, John Allen, Leanne Connor, Ross Connor, Tahnee Malagueno, Sammy Woods, John Couldrey, and Carol Brown all showing their skills and smashing out the run.

Post-run pleasantries were shared at the Chalet alongside food and drink, where Kaylene and Joe received their first-place prizes donated by Porters Mitre 10 Mackay.

The Road Runners will meet again on Sunday for the annual Tilse Toddle, an afternoon 5km/10km run commencing from 24 Johnson Street at 4.30pm.

First female and male in the 18km, Kaylene Gardner and Joe Grech

Lovely ladies ready to test the Eungella trails – L-R Carmel Grech, Carol Brown, Carole Dawes, Jo Hughes, and Vicki Ford

Mountain men, Raymond Borg, Greg Dawes, Matt Bampton, and Shane Edwards.

5km runners burst out of the gates for their trek through to Sky Window. Pictures supplied: Janelle Tilse

In other news