Whilst the majority of runners participating in the annual and very popular Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon, perfect running conditions greeted the local social Mackay event, although, it didn’t take runners long to raise a sweat, despite the cooler temperatures.
The Mackay Road Runners held a very social 5km, 10km Bluewater Quay event where the course took runners out towards the Mackay Harbour for the 10km and 5km runners turning around at the BP Moss Marine Service Station.
Excellent efforts came from Grant Holmstrom, Rod Elworthy, John Couldrey, Andrew Short, Simon Henderson, Ollie Gorrion, Shane Barben, Craig Andrews, Robinson Stinson, Stuart Sprott, Jan Smith, Toni Enright, Bernadine McKinnon, Andrew Wallace, Lauren Connor, Tia Gorrie, Leanne Connor, Kim Saron, Tahnie Malagueno, Carolyn Mapes and Stacey Robertson.
Sensational running in the 10km by Abigail Sweeney who backed up well after taking gold in the 4km at the Mackay Athletics Carnival on Friday.
Mackay Road Runners junior club member, Lily Leven was 2nd overall in the 4km but first in her age.
Excellent efforts also from Toby Rule who scored first in the 6km ahead of Luke Leven 3rd and Jared Mackie 4th.
This Sunday’s 5th annual Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield incorporates the long standing Mackay Road Runners Forsyths Accounting Services 10km Club Championship to be held at 7am sharp from the Queen’s park carpark entrance, Shakespeare Street.
There is a 5km distance available and non members are most welcome to attend, however, only club members are eligible for the 10km Shield in honour of former champion club member, club treasurer and life member, Shawn Claydon who pass away five years ago on 30th August from Pancreatic Cancer.
Entry fee will be $10 for the 5km and 10km with all proceeds donated by Mackay Road Runners to Pancare to assist in research and assistance for sufferers and their families.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Approximately forty runners enjoyed a very social 5k and 10km run from the Bluewater Quay precincts
L-R Carolyn Mapes, Tahnie Malagueno and Andrew Short tackle the 10km course from the Bluewater Quay
Carmel Mahon and Andrew Wallace set a great pace in the 10km event. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse
