RUNNING
The second event in the 2025/2026 Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series got off to a great start on Sunday, with milder temperatures making for pleasant conditions on the run course before competitors hit the pool for the final leg.
Around 30 runners, swimmers, and supporters turned out to enjoy the relaxed, social atmosphere of the series, now in its second season as a biathlon. The event evolved from the long-running Shawn’s Summer Series, which was a running-only event for nearly ten years, and another decade before that under various formats.
Mackay Road Runners Club Captain and Race Director Jim Ford, who leads the off-season series, has been a driving force behind its success. Jim is known for his inclusive approach, ensuring people of all ages and abilities can take part and enjoy the challenge.
The series uses a handicap points system, based on the number of laps each participant completes on the track and in the pool within the allocated time, with bonus points awarded for older age categories.
The Splash n Dash continues every Sunday in November and again throughout January 2026, starting at 4.30pm at the Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Complex.
Everyone is welcome, no need to be part of a club, just arrive at 4.20pm for the briefing and have a go. The event is free to enter, with a $5 pool entry fee payable at the kiosk for use of the world-class, internationally accredited facilities.
Contributed by Janelle Tisle
Len Howarth (centre) with his beautiful relatives, granddaughter, Chloe (left) and daughter, Rebecca.
Approximately thirty runners, swimmers and supporters enjoyed the ARC (Aquatic & Recreational Complex) track and pool facilities.
Andew Short enjoying the track reversal concept for half of the track 30 minute track session.
Talented junior TriActiv8 triathlete, Archer Flanagan sizzled over the track portion of the Biathlon event.
Jose Short from the TriAtiv8 stable of athletes cruises the track section.
Steve Oberg cooling off from the run ready for the pool section starter’s whistle.
Clancy (left) and Mum Emily enjoying the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series. Photos supplied
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
