Runners Rise To The Challenge At Annual Grove Handicap

Over forty runners took part in the annual Grove 10km Handicap Trophy and 5km events on the weekend, continuing a proud 32-year tradition from the same starting point at the Andergrove Tavern on Andergrove Road.

The Mackay Road Runners Club extends its sincere appreciation to The Grove for its ongoing support of this iconic event, which remains a key fixture on the Club’s racing calendar.

The prestigious 10km Handicap Trophy is awarded to the first male or female to cross the finish line based on official club handicap start times. Timekeepers Rohan Miles and Julie Whibley ensured a smooth 7am start for both distances – an out-and-back course for the 5km, and a 10km loop incorporating the demanding Apsley Way circuit.

Despite starting with the highest handicap, Hamish Donnollan ran superbly to record the fastest 10km time of the day. However, it was Justin Rule who claimed the coveted handicap gold medal and the sought-after Grove Trophy.

Strong performances were also recorded by other 10km runners, including Craig McGahey, Ashley Miles, Judy Zahn, Joe Grech, Alan Zamparutti, Wayne Huntley, Chris Spiteri, Michael Feenaghty, Tahnie Malagueno, Jose Short,and Andrew Short. Special thanks go to Andrew for once again setting up the race course, with valuable assistance from David Isbister and Len Howarth at the start line. Andrew generously arrives in the early hours setting up course signs, water stop…and then runs the 10km.

In the 5km event, husband-and-wife teams Ross and Leanne Connor and Craig and Natasha Joynson both finished within twenty seconds of each other. The fastest 5km time was recorded by Todd Turner, followed closely by Max Miles, the Connors, the Joynsons, Kim Saron, and seasoned veteran runner Stuart Sport.

Special congratulations go to rising junior athlete Toby Rule, who the day prior had comfortably achieved a qualifying time trial, by nearly thirty seconds, for the 3km Steeplechase at the National Championships later this year. Though his efforts left little in reserve for Sunday’s 10km event, Toby still delivered a commendable performance as the second-highest handicapped runner.

Looking ahead, excitement is building for the BMA Mackay Marina Run this Sunday, 1st June. With record numbers of local, interstate, and international participants registered, this year’s event is shaping up to be the biggest in its 17-year history. Organisers are thrilled with the response across all race categories.

The popular Race Ambassadors’ “Live with the Legends” session, held Friday at the Mackay Mantra white marquee, is also expected to draw a crowd. Spots are limited, so head online to secure your place.

The Mackay Road Runners Club thanks the community, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters for their incredible backing of this signature event, which raises vital funds for the Mackay Branch of the Leukaemia Foundation. With picture-perfect winter conditions expected, it's the ideal time to enjoy Mackay’s stunning scenery and embrace the health and fitness benefits of running, whether alongside mates, colleagues, or family members.

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Over forty Mackay Road Runners celebrated the 32nd Annual Grove 10km Handicap Trophy event supported by The Andergrove Tavern
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Timekeepers, Rohan Miles (left) and Julie Whibley (right) congratulated on a job well done once again by President Paul Tilse (centre). Photos and words by Janelle Tilse

Mel Rich (right) who raced the 10km handicap start event in perfect form discusses results with coach, Belinda Rule

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