Rule And Knezevic Triumph At Shawn Claydon Memorial Shield

RUNNING

The annual Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon 10km Memorial Shield Club Championship was held last Sunday morning in damp but favourable running conditions, drawing nearly forty competitors and a supportive crowd. Despite the wet weather, spirits remained high with The Rolling Coffee Bean and da Sausage vendors providing refreshments and a lively atmosphere.

Now in its seventh year under Forsyths Accounting as major sponsor, the memorial event honours the late Shawn Claydon, a much-loved member of the Mackay Road Runners Club who passed away in August 2018 following a short illness. The race awards a perpetual shield to the first male and female to cross the line from a scratch start. Forsyths Partner Nicole White and Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, who has opened the event every year since its inception, officially started the race in Shawn’s memory and in support of Pancreatic Cancer research (Pancare).

The 2025 Memorial Shield saw a strong field, with Toby Rule claiming the men’s title in a fast 35 minutes and 41 seconds, finishing ahead of Mick Vivian, who was less than two minutes behind. Alana Knezevic took out the women’s title for the second consecutive year, finishing third overall in 42 minutes and 18 seconds, ahead of Carolyn Mapes and Jose Short.

Other standout performers included Justin Rule, Shane Donnollan, Michael Feenaghty, Ashley Miles, Levi Wallace, Brad Kelleher, Clinton Mackie, Derek Woods, Max Miles, Carmel Mahon, Tahnie Malagueno, Robin Stinson, Andrew Short, Scott McIntosh, Judy Zahn, Jan Smith, and Ollie Gorrion.

In the 5km event, top honours went to Teresa Hackney and Ross Connor, followed by Leanne Connor, John Couldrey, David Isbister, Kayla Waugh, Fran March, and Stuart Sprott.

Special thanks were extended to Jim Ford, Life Member and Club Captain, for his heartfelt tribute to Shawn Claydon, reflecting on their close friendship and shared love of running.

The Claydon family, Jeff and Sharon, were also acknowledged for their ongoing support. All race day entry fees, raffle proceeds, and sponsorships will be donated to Pancare, with over $1,000 raised—continuing Shawn’s legacy with community spirit and purpose.

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Mackay Road Runners Club Championship Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield Club Championship special guests (left to right) Ms Sharon Stewart-Harris, Mr Jeff Stewart-Harris, Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Mr. Greg Williamson, Club Captain and Mackay Road Runners Life Member, Mr Jim Ford, Bonny Claydon (seated), Forsyths, Nicole White & Sarah Damen and Mr John Claydon.

Runners and supporters at the Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield & Club Championship annual event (left to right) – Fran March, Jo Hughes, Alleny Gorrion, Jan Smith, Ollie Gorrion, Stuart Sprott and Kayla Waugh.

Major sponsor Forsyths Accounting, Nicole White (centre) proudly congratulates winners of the 10km perpetual trophy as well as the 5km winners (left to right) Alana Knezevic (10km 1st), Toby Rule (10km 1st), Ross Connor (5km 1st), Sarah (Forsyths) accepting Teresa Hackney’s  5km 1st female trophy in her absence.

Scott McIntosh made a welcome return to racing the 10km Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial Shield. Photos and words by Janelle Tilse

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