Thursday, April 3, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Tim’s Chariots of Fire

A Hot Race Through Slade Point

Over fifty runners and supporters participated in the annual Tim’s Chariots of Fire 5km and 16km events, hosted at the Magoffin residence on Ocean Avenue, Slade Point. The club extends its thanks to Sandra, Tim, and Ruby for once again opening their home for the challenging event.

Despite the humid conditions and occasional rain, runners tackled the course, which featured undulations towards Andergrove Tavern for the 16km. The route then ascended through Lamberts Beach, including steep hills leading to the Lamberts Beach Lookout and Water Tower, a key feature for both distances.

A big thank you goes to Tim and Andrew Short for setting up and packing down the course, supported by Len Howarth, David Isbister, and Alan Zamparutti. The well-marked course included a variety of surfaces—sand, bitumen, rocky paths, and exposed roots—and challenging ascents and descents, testing runners' endurance and navigational skills. Tim’s efforts in clearing the track and setting up signage helped runners navigate the tricky route.

Top finishers in the 5km event included Lily Leven and Stephen Oberg, with Teresa Hackney finishing second overall. Stephen Hayles took silver, only five seconds behind the first male. Veteran runners Judy Zahn, David Isbister, and Len Howarth, who have a combined 230 years of experience, proved their remarkable endurance in the 5km race.

In the 16km event, Mick Vivian claimed gold, finishing two minutes ahead of Hamish Donnollan, with Joe Grech securing third. Carolyn Mapes claimed the top spot for females, finishing one minute ahead of Jose Short, with Rhiann Massey taking bronze. Junior runner Max Miles performed well, finishing just outside the top ten males.

The club also acknowledged the volunteers, including timekeeper Rohan Miles, whose presence was a welcome sight for runners in the sweltering conditions. Other volunteers, including Paul Tilse, Julie Whibley, Helen Leven, and Ruby Magoffin, were also praised for their support.

Looking ahead, the next two Sunday events will be informal social races at Bluewater Quay, with the popular Zambrero’s Burrito Bolt on Easter Sunday. All are welcome to join.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

Ready to race…..Craig Joynson, Natasha Joynson, Alan Zamparutti, Grant Holmstrom and Rhian Massey!

Stephen Oberg and Lily Leven lead at the final hilly ascent in the 5km event.

First placed in the 16km Mick Vivian with Race Director and Host, Tim Magoffin.

Carolyn Mapes takes gold for the girls in the 16km Tim’s Chariots of Fire. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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