Wet And Windy Challenge For Jo’s 70 Steps Run

Wet and windy conditions did not deter more than 30 runners who lined up for the Mackay Road Runners’ Jo’s 70 Steps 5km and 10km event from the Gordon White Library carpark.

The loop course featured the demanding hills of Pollock and High Streets for the 5km, with 10km competitors doubling up for an extra loop. Timekeepers Rohan Miles and Julie Whibley kept results on track despite the conditions.

In the handicap start 5km, Gail Mackie claimed first place ahead of Steve Hayles, Jo Hughes, Emily Hayles, Jim Perkins, Kayla Waugh and Judy Zahn. Judy’s effort was notable as she backed up from a Table Tennis Tournament the previous day and was due to compete in the championships’ final day that afternoon. Natasha and Craig Joynson crossed eighth and ninth consecutively, followed by Kim Saron, Leanne Connor and David Isbister. Judy also appreciated Craig’s help through a slippery section of the course.

The 10km runners faced two loops, with Jeff Pearce taking line honours from his handicap start, finishing three minutes clear of juniors Toby Rule and Max Miles. They were followed by Justin Rule, Jeremy Taylor, Andrew Wallace, Alan Zamparutti, Derek Woods, Clinton Mackie and Jared Mackie. Carolyn Mapes was the first female, finishing ahead of Jose Short, Andrew Short, Stephen Oberg and Ashley Miles.

Cool and wet conditions saw runners and volunteers pack up quickly, with thanks to all helpers including Ashley Miles, who assisted after completing his own race.

Next Sunday’s run will be a social 5km and 10km from Bluewater Quay at 4pm, scheduled around the Whitsunday Trail Running Festival in Airlie Beach and the start of school holidays. Members and non-members are welcome.

In out-of-town racing, junior athlete Toby Rule delivered outstanding results at the School Sport Australia National Cross Country. He finished as the third Queenslander, fifth Australian and sixth overall, winning gold in the team event and another gold in the 18–19 years relay. Toby now turns to the Track and Field season, competing at the ANQ North Queensland Championships in Townsville during the September holidays in the 3000m steeplechase, 800m, 1500m and 5000m. He will then race at the QRSS Championships in late October at the All Schools Nationals before trialling for the World Cross Country Championships in November, aiming for selection in the Australian Under-20 team. Balancing these commitments with his final year of school, Toby continues to impress with his dedication.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

(left to right) Justin Rule, Clinton Mackie, Jared Mackie, Steve Hayles, Derek Woods and Gail Mackie collectively display over $2,000 worth of running shoes

Veteran running legend Judy Zahn took on a hive of athletic activity over the weekend with a Saturday/Sunday Table Tennis Tournament and Mackay Road Runners 5km Sunday morning

Toby Rule and Justin Rule battle it out in Jo’s 70 Steps 10km at the halfway turnaround point

Natasha and Craig Joynson are always smiling as they cross the finish line in unison

Jeff Pearce finished a sensational 10km run via the Jo’s 70 Steps handicap start, a challenging event

Emily Hayles takes out 4th overall in the Jo’s 70 Steps Handicap start 5km. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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