Hilly scenic views were a highlight for the Mackay Road Runners’ (MRR) second race of the 2023 program as they challenged themselves to an undulating 5/10km Rural View Lookout event.
The annual event is surprisingly popular with the local contingent of runners despite the many ascents and descents to test the legs and the lungs.
Hopefully, no one overdid it as the conditions were extremely humid with little breeze amongst the peaks and troughs of the Rural View loop.
Newly appointed MRR Vice President Brendan Bishop was great in his first outing, offering a respectful thanks to Traditional Owners and the continuing connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to Country.
Brendan then passed on important notices and updates before advising the two loop course description from Wallman’s Court to the Rural View lookout and return. Brendan thanked Andrew Short for his excellent work once again in setting up the course with multiple signs directing runners through the course.
First male in the 5km was newcomer Jared Mackie, who did a sensational 5km run over the gruelling course ahead of second placed Oliver Rule and Darrin Pullen.
Likewise, talented junior runner, Millie Bishop easily accounted for the 5km to be first female ahead of Jo Hughes and Mel Harris.
Damian Rutland was sensational in the 10km marginally taking the win from speedsters Paul Mackenzie and Mick Vivian.
Alana Knesevic continued her amazing form with a sound win over second placed Jose Short who was only 10 seconds ahead of a fast finishing Carolyn Mapes.
Well done to runners completing their individual event, with excellent performances from new runners Walker Murray and Grant Holstrom in the 10km and Jared Mackie and Lauren Connor in the 5km.
Congratulations and welcome to them as well as the return of our existing members.
This Sunday the MRR will host its first Club Championship run of the 2023 season from Queens Park carpark, Shakespeare Street entrance.
To accrue club championship points and handicap points, runners must be a member of MRR, therefore, don’t miss out, register online asap at mackayroadrunners.com.au.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
