Nowra Athletics Club
Winter 2007 Newspaper Reports

Club News & Competition Reports

Tomerong Cross Country
Round 20, (18-08-07)


The final round of the 2007 Nowra Toyota Winter Pointscore saw a classic finish in Division1of the Medium Course event. Lana Bruffey held out a last minute challenge from Peter Heald to secure a win and in so doing became the "Bill McKinnon Memorial Award" winner for 2007.

In the race Lana got away early, put plenty of energy into the back hills and followed on with some great open field running. She was simply too good for the rest of the field to have any chance of reeling her in over the last few hundred metres. 

There were plenty of other great performances on the weekend at the Timberhills Course with many of the season's best runners winning the final outing of the competition. 

Of course we can’t all come first every week, the most important part of Cross Country running is that we're out there enjoying ourselves with family and friends week after week. That's how we all win. 

The Nowra Athletics Club would like to thank Ron and Ruth McKinnon for the use of their family property (Timberhills) over the season and for the many hours spent in maintaining and preparing a beautiful but very challenging cross country course. 

To wrap up the Cross Country season all Club members, family and friends are invited to a Cross Country Social Day at Willandra, Browns Mountain Road, Cambewarra this Saturday for a fun run and other social events.  

This year the Club will be running a "Pairs" fun run to be followed by a relaxed presentation of awards and certificates for the 2007 Cross Country Season. Please come along - enjoy the day, have a run and share a few laughs with your friends.  

Thankfully athletic endeavours don't stop at the end of a cross country season! 

The Nowra Athletics Club has a great "evening" athletics competition which is open to all comers - regardless of age and or ability.  

The Summer Athletics Competition starts on Wednesday 12th September at the Ron Brown Sporting Complex (behind Shoalhaven High School), Park Road Nowra. A complete programme listing dates and events will be available at the Cross Country Social Day on Saturday. Additional enquiries can be made by contacting Club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226.   

For any club members wishing to continue with competitive distance running, the Club is organising weekly Summer Road Runs commencing Saturday 1st September. The first round starts at the Tomerong Village Hall (opposite the Tomerong School) Old Princes Hwy, Tomerong with a race start time of 4.30pm.  

Any interested runners should contact Kevyn Davis on 44478309, Terry Bailey on 44216065 or Paul & Tracy Jennings on 44218332 for further details. 

In other athletic news, club member Hamish Gorman is representing NSW at the Australian Cross Country Championships in Perth. Also, young Hayden Miller will be attending as an additional competitor in a Junior Boys category. Best of luck gents, we know you’ll do us proud.

 

   Cross Country - Timberhills - Round 19
11-08-07

Nowra Athletics Club cross-country runners had one of the year's best afternoons at one of the world's greatest cross-country courses at the weekend. 

Gloriaus sunshine, stunning Australian bush scenery and running tracks fit for champions. Yes, Timberhills has it all! Several of the club's regular running families were absent on Saturday due to "City to Surf" commitments, however those who attended made the most of the season's second last outing. 

At this time of the year runners are always keen to improve their standing in the Nowra Toyota Winter Pointscore.

 As you would expect, competition was fierce in all divisions, Bridgett Kellett, and Hayden Strand had a great race in division IA of the 2km event finishing one and two with Indiana Van Arkel picking up third place.

Other divisional winners in the 2km event on Saturday included Sarah Godwin, Tye Martin, Alistair Clark, Liam Dooley, Henry Phillips, Aimee Gibb and Hannah Brooks.     

In the 3km event Jyle Smith made a welcome return to the cross-country winners' dais coming home strongly to finish ahead of Brendan Kellett and Yolanda Van Arkel.

 Division 2 runners Julie Evans, Fiona Phillips and  Andrew Jennings made the most of the fine conditions to claim maximum points also.

 The medium course event attracted a lot of interest with Division I competitors Zahra Wells, Peter Dooley and Lara Bruffey sprinting down the long straight for a well earned rest.

 Anne-Maree Schofield,  Maureen Cox and Joanne Warren took the honours in Division 2, while runners Sandra Coyte, Lauren Carroll and Terry Bailey were clear winners in Division 3.

 Milton Cox left nothing to chance in the long course event on Saturday, getting out early and maintaining the pressure for the full 10km to ensure a well earned victory in Division 1.

 In the Division 2 race Geoff Crook showed great form to finish first with Chris Davies and Terry Threlfall running well for second and third.     

This Saturday will be the final round of the Nowra Toyota Winter Pointscore competiton and the last opportunity for runners to appreciate the Timberhills course for 2007.

As is customary for the last Timberhills outing of the year, the annual Bill McKinnon Memorial Trophy will be presented to the winner of the feature race.

 To keep everybody on their toes,this year's feature race won't be announced until just before racing starts.

   As usual registration and administration on Saturday will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting around 2.3Opm.     

New members are always welcome, for further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday.     

Looking forward to seeing you there!

 

 

Cross Country and Road Runners
Saturday 4-08-07

 Road Relays Results

Congratulations to all Club members who took part in the NSW Road Relay Championships held in Wollongong on the weekend.  

The U/14 boys, 35+ womens, 55+ mens and the 55+ womens teams won silver. The 35+ mens and the 45+ mens team won bronze. Great results by anyone's measure! 

The Nowra Under 14 team (Hayden Miller, Yolanda Van Arkel, Jon Davies and Josh Byron) improved on last years result with a well earned silver medal.  

The 55+ Womens team (Maureen Cox, Jill Smith, Eva Moeller-Duhme and Helen Redenbach) topped off a fabulous year of medal winning performances in NSW Championship events claiming a silver medal on Saturday. Great effort ladies! 

The 35+ Womens (Linda Weatherill, Alison Strand, Cristine Suffolk and Elisa Godwin), 55+ Mens (Milton Cox, Kevyn Davis, Jack Robertson and Eric Moeller-Duhme), 35+ Mens (Jon Schol, Paul Davidson, Perry Strand and Michael Troy) and 45+ Mens(Peter Dooley, Glenn Samson, Graeme Pepper and Martin Tomasini); our other medal winning teams, showed great courage and determination against the States best runners.  

Club officials were extremely pleased with the effort from everyone, all the other entered teams performed at their best and were well placed in their respective categories.
 
Club Cross Country - Round 18 - Longreach Rd

Back at the local scene runners were keen to have another go at the challenging Longreach course on Saturday afternoon. The weather was perfect and after a short welcome speech by Starter John Price the first event was under way. 

In the 2km event Wade Garin was first home in Division 1A, Nathan Ford and Paige Connolly-Davies were in hot pursuit and claimed 2nd and 3rd. Only a short while later Division 1B winner Tye Martin came home with a burst while Alistair Clark and Zac Stahlhut picked up the minor placing's. In Division 2 friends Kate Crutch, Aimee Gibb and Rebecca Evison had a great afternoon of fun out on the course and returned home in front. In Division 3 runners Callum Lowbridge, Ella Munro and Cedar Garin all had very good runs in their race. 

In the 3km event Division 1 runner Rose Dooley claimed first place by a big margin – well done! In Division 2 Julie Evans, Emily Warden and Andrew Jennings kept up the pace for the whole 3 kms to be well ahead at the finish. 

Medium course runners Jake Ring, Andrew Munro and Paul Jennings showed onlookers what racing was all about finishing in the top three of the Division 1 contest. In Division 2 Jeff Dinning, John Price and Graham Smith were once again well ahead of the bunch. In Division 3 Lauren Carroll, Claire Pitkethly and Bronwyn Jeffrey showed their competitive spirit to cross the line in front. 

Andy Dupree made the most of the Saturday Long Course event beating home a determined Scott Martin and Bill Stahlhut in the Division 1 race.  Lisa Carroll had a fantastic run in Division 2 to finish first while Sky Martin and Doug Jeffrey also ran well to claim the minor placings. 

All those who missed out on Saturday’s great afternoon of Cross Country running will be pleased to know that this week's Nowra Toyota Winter Pointscore will be at the Timber Hills Course, Tomerong. To find Timberhills, simply drive South down the Princes Hwy and look for a right hand turn (Kell's Road) marked with X-Country signs on the Tomerong by-pass. Travel up Kell's Road for about 1.5km till you reach Timberhills on the right hand side.  

Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. New members are always welcome, for further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there!

 

 Cross Country -A Forest Run
Round 17 - ( 28-07-07)

Runners from the Nowra Athletics Club revelled in the natural beauty of the Tomerong State Forest on the weekend. After many attempts, the lovely bush course was ready for runners and their families to explore and enjoy.

Talking of enjoyment - several families took the opportunity to race by the horns and ran all the way to the winners circle. The Kellet, Munro, Heads, Strand, Schofield, Coyte and Ford families all had several members collecting points. 

The Nowra Athletics Club Committee knows potential when they see it, four year old Oliver Lockey is a young racer with plenty. After Saturday's 2km event, race officials were most impressed with his strategic insights and rapid recovery after such a gruelling event. He will no doubt attract attention from the Handicapper in coming seasons. 

The Medium course event produced some excellent performances resulting in very close finishes and some very tired legs at the end of the 5.5km course.  

In Division 2 the long uphill run to the finish line made for interesting viewing with Jeff Dining crossing first while Anne-Marie Schofield and Graham Smith picked up a well earned 2nd and 3rd.  

In Division 3 Bronwyn Jeffrey brought Lauren Carroll's long string of wins to an end coming in just ahead of Sandra Coyte while Lauren sprinted home for third. In the Division 1 contest, after getting out early Andrew Munro had the stamina to continue on for victory while James Coyte and Jon Schol ran hard for the placings. 

The 2km event saw plenty of effort from runners no more so than from Division 2 winners Briony Munro, Kieran Harrison and Murray Schofield. Other Divisional winners were Nathan Ford, Bridget Kellett, Jarvis Strand, Daniel Quinten, Jeremy Head and Cathy Head - great work! 

In the 3km race winners included Brendan Kellett, Gus Stretton, Rose Vucic, Brett Ford, Emily Warden and Fiona Phillips. 

The Long Course featured several water views and gravel traps designed specifically to keep the distance runners nimble and flexible.  

In Division 2 Geoff Crook fought off many a challenge to take first place while Alison Strand and Jack Robertson showed determination to claim the placings. In Division 1 Perry Strand ran a fabulous race to receive the line honours further back Paul Davidson and Heather Sinclair came 2nd and 3rd. 

In other Club news representatives from the Nowra Athletics Club will be doing their best at the NSW State Road Run Relay Championships in Wollongong on Saturday. Best of luck gang! 

This Saturday’s Cross Country running will be held at the Longreach Course, Longreach Road, Longreach. Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. New members are always welcome for further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday.   

 

Willandra Cross Country

(21 - 07 - 07)

CROSS-COUNTRY runners from the Nowra Athletics Club were pleased to be able to have a run at Willandra on Saturday afternoon, 21st July.  

With overcast conditions and no wind to speak of participants had a great-opportunity to sharpen their racing skills at the business end of the season. 

Before proceedings got underway Club president Kevyn Davis congratulated club members Jon Schol, Michael Troy and Damien Smith who recently competed in the annual navy v Nowra Athletics Club teams run. 

The three Nowra Athletics Club runners were first home and were duly declared winners of the perpetual trophy. 

Further to club achievements, runners who participated in the Shoalhaven King of the Mountain and the State Short Course Championships held recently were applauded for their efforts and achievements before racing started. 

The Nowra Toyota Winter Pointscore on Saturday started with the 2km event. 

As expected competition was fierce in all divisions especially over the first 1,000 metres however the two uphill sections thinned out the packs before the final run home. 

Division 1A runners Bridgett Kellett, Hayden Strand and Liam Heald were once again the first runners home in the 2km event. 

In Division 1B, runner Daniel Quinten had plenty of energy up the back straight and continued on with a flat out sprint down to the finish line to claim first. 

He was closely followed in by Jeremy Head and Sarah Godwin, who both put in a great effort too. 

In Division 2 Luke Kellett kept up the family tradition and was first to cross the line while Murray Schofield and Courtney Harrison came second and third.

In the 3km event Tarlou Smith proved her worth yet again crossing the line first in Division 1 for a solid win.   

Yolanda Van Arkel added to her points tally for the season by coming second, while Lou Reali put in a great
effort for third. 

In Division 2, only a few seconds separated the three front runners Emily Warden, Fiona Phillips and Elizabeth Vucic - well done girls! 

Medium course runners Jon Schol, James Coyte and Paul Jennings showed good pace in the early sections of the race and had the legs to finish in the top three  positions of Division 1. 

Murray Parnel took out first place in the Division 2 contest, while Jo Warren and Graham Smith showed good form to take the placings. 

In Division 3 runners Sandra Coyte, Terry Bailey and Sheryl Bruffey showed their competitive spirit to be first home. 

The long course event saw runners Linda Weatherill, Milton Cox and Gary Bowen excel to take line honours once again in Division 1. 

In Division 2 Terry Threlfall was first, while Sky Martin and Alison Strand had great runs for second and third. 

This Saturday's Cross Country running will be at the new Forest Course, off Jervis Bay Road, Woollamia. 

To find the Forest Course, simply drive south east down Jervis Bay Road (appox. 4-5km from the Princes Highway) till you see the X-Country signs on the right. 

Remember to check the Nowra Athletics Club website and/or listen to local radio stations for any changes if the weather turns nasty. 

Registration and administration will be from 2.l5pm with the first event starting at around 2.3Opm. 

New members most welcome for further enquiries contact club secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday.

    Looking forward to seeing you there!

 

 

Cross Country Report

 (14th July, 2007)

What a tremendous weekend of athletics we've just had with a State Short Course Cross Country Championship, the Shoalhaven King of the Mountain and the regular Cross Country Pointscore competition round 15. Action packed from start to finish with medals, records, personal bests and high levels of participation.  

Nowra Athletics Club runners gave the best of themselves at the State Short Course Cross Country Championships held at Abbotsbury, Sydney on Saturday.  

A great performance at the State Championships came from Maureen Cox (55-59yrs) who was up against first class opposition, Maureen had a fabulous run and returned home in style to be awarded the silver medal. Local business woman and committed distance runner Linda Weatherill, set the crowd cheering in the final stages of her event chasing down and overcoming all bar one of the front runners to claim the Silver medal.  

Cristine Suffolk added to her tally of major awards at State events with a Bronze medal in the 35 – 39 years event. 

Club officials were very pleased with the efforts of all concerned and thank all athletes, families and friends for their participation and assistance at the Championships. 

The Shoalhaven King of the Mountain held on Sunday was once again a resounding success. Great weather and course conditions made the challenge and the demands of the “King” that little bit easier for the diverse field of runners that set out together in high spirits from Cambewarra School at 9am. 

A couple of hours and a mountain later the leaders started to work their way up the main street of Kangaroo Valley towards the finish line at the Kangaroo Valley Showground. 

Congratulations to Jon Schol and Helen Troy who were the first local runners to complete the 32km event - both finishing in just over two hours. Well done to all Club runners who took up the challenge this year, we hope to see you all return for next year! 

Due to extremely wet course conditions the scheduled cross country event at Timberhills had to move to the Longreach Course on Saturday. However, the Nowra Toyota Cross Country Pointscore competition was well attended considering the change and the other events that took place over the weekend. 

In the 2km event Nathan Ford, Dane Bowen and Bridgett Kellett were convincing winners in Division 1a. In Division 1b, Sarah Godwin was first, while Zac Stahlhut and Cathy Head were not far behind in 2nd and 3rd place. Luke Kellett took out Division 2 and was closely followed home by Liam Dooley and Murray Schofield. Good performances in Division 3 came from Kyla Davidson and John Connolly. Well done everyone! 

The 3km event has become very popular this season and has developed into a very strong competition. Moruya Henderson, Richard Brown and Yolanda Van Arkel were well deserved winners in Division 1. While in Division 2 Bronwyn Jeffrey, Fiona Phillips and Emily Warden took line honours.  

In the Medium course event, Peter Dooley, Paul Davidson and Elisa Godwin were in good form to take the placings in Division 1. Scott Puckeridge, John Price and Jill Smith ran well to secure wins in Division 2. The Division 3 contest saw the lead change several times with Lauren Carroll crossing the line first with Bill Seary and Terry Bailey chasing hard for second and third.   

Long course runners Gary Bowen, Perry Strand and Scott Martin proved far too good for the rest of the field in Division 1 on Saturday – great effort boys! In Division 2, Jack Robertson and Paul Finch were in a close finish for first and second while Deb Sansom came home strongly for third. 

This Saturday's Nowra Toyota Pointscore - Cross Country running will be at  Willandra, Brown's Mountain Road, Cambewarra. Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. New members are always welcome for further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday.   

 

Longreach Cross Country

Round 14 (7-07-07)

Saturday's Nowra Toyota Winter Pointscore cross country event was held at everybody's favourite, the Longreach Course on the weekend. Sunny but slightly cool conditions made for a great afternoon of athletic action in the natural surrounds of the Shoalhaven bush.

Most Club runners were keen to have another hit out before next weekend's major representative fixture - NSW Cross Country Short Course and or the "Shoalhaven King of the Mountain".

In the 2km event Mia Davidson was first home in Division 1A with Bridgett Kellett and Hayden Strand in hot pursuit all posting very credible times. Only a few seconds later Division 1B winner, Sarah Godwin came home with a burst while Mathew Schofield and Tye Martin picked up the minor placing's. Division 2 runners Jade Mustapec, Briony Munro and Samantha Jeffrey all had very good runs in their race. Sophie Phillips and Mia Davidson had good performances in the Division 3 contest.

Father and daughter combination Leah and Richard Brown were first home in the 3km Division 1 race while Lou Reali came home strongly to claim third. In Division 2 Debbie Clark, Heather Davitt and Emily Warden were well ahead of the pack at the finish line.

Medium course runners Andrew Munro, Martin Tomasini and James Coyte showed good pace in the early sections of the race and had the legs to finish in the top three positions of Division 1. Anne-Marie Schofield took out first place in the Division 2 contest while Pat Davitt and Tammy Jones all showed their competitive spirit in the same event. In Division 3 Lauren Carroll again proved far too strong for the competition and came home well ahead of Bill Seary and Bill Rogan.

Glenn Sansom made the most of the Saturday Long Course event beating home Division 1 young gun Patrick Ozolins and this year's big improver Perry Strand

Other runners Paul Finch, Deb Sansom and Ed Egan put in a fantastic effort stepping up the pace and putting the pressure on for the whole 9.5 kms. By all accounts another great race!

Best wishes to all Club members representing next Saturday and best of luck to all involved in the "King" on Sunday!

This Saturday’s (14th July) Cross Country running will be at Timberhills, McKinnons Farm, Kell's Road, Tomerong. To find Timberhills, simply drive South down the Princes Hwy and look for a right hand turn (Kell's Road) marked with X-Country signs on the Tomerong by-pass. Travel up Kell's Road for about 1.5km till you reach Timberhills on the right hand side.

Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there!

 

Cross Country At Longreach

30th June, 2007

 

Runners and their families braved the elements at Longreach on Saturday to complete another round of the Nowra Toyota Winter Pointscore.

Before the race proceedings began Club President Kevyn Davis, spoke about the first class efforts of the Club and it’s members at last weekends Willandra Country Classic. With a special congratulations to all the Club’s athletes who received medals in the various individual and team events.

Saturday’s racing provided some exciting finishes no more so than in Division 1 of the 3km course where the first four places were separated by less than five seconds.

Front runner Jasmine Jones held on to claim first place while Hayden Miller and Jyle Smith played out the race of the day finishing second and third respectively. Yolanda Van Arkel crossed the line a few metres behind the boys for a well earned fourth.

In the 3km Division 2 contest girls Emily Warden, Heather Davitt and Kate Knight had the ability to make a clean sweep of all the places.

The 2km race saw some regular faces in the winners circle once again. In Division 1A Hayden Strand, Henry Connolly Davies and Mia Davidson worked their way through the field and up the long hill to finish well ahead. In Division 1B Daniel Quinten got those little legs pumping to take first while Matt Schofield and Madeleine Jeffrey gave everything for second and third.

Division 2 runners Jaymee Bryce, Liam Dooley and Colleen Stahlhut maintained a consistent pace to finish in front while Callum Lowbridge put in a great effort in Division 3.

The mighty Medium Course runners showed plenty of heart on the weekend. Veteran Bill Rogan still managed to take second place in Division 3 despite a fall which left him a little short of bark and claret. Rosine Evans and Lauren Carroll continued on with their good form too, taking first and third. Division 2 runner Michele Smith ran a well executed race to win just ahead of John Price and Jeff Dinning. Alex Pitkethly, James Coyte and Jake Ring made light work of the course to cross the line first in Division 1, well done boys!

Long Course runner Linda Weatherill gave a fine display of cross country racing winning Division 1, while Perry Strand and Graeme Pepper continued on with good form to outpace the rest of the field. In Division 2 Ed Egan got off to a great start and finished first ahead of Doug Jeffrey and Eric Moeller-Duhme.

In other cross country news, Club members are reminded that the State Short Course Cross Country Championships are being held on Saturday 14th July in Bankstown, Sydney. Any interested runners wishing to have a go and represent the Club should contact Secretary Jan Gibb for further details. All members participating will receive free entry and be awarded maximum points in the regular local point score competition.

Don’t forget the internationally renowned “hoalhaven King of the Mountain” endurance race is on Sunday 15th July, last minute entries are still being accepted.

The Nowra Athletics Club website (Google - Nowra Athletics Club and follow the links) is a great resource available for members to check venue details, times and any wet weather changes to the regular programs (winter or summer). Additionally the website features articles, photo’s and many other items of interest for club members or any person wishing to find out more about the Nowra Athletics Club and the fabulous sport of Athletics. So check it out and keep informed.

This Saturday’s Cross Country running will be at the Longreach Course, Longreach Road, Longreach. Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm.

New members are always welcome, for further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 4446 0226 or simply come along on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there!

 

          Local Results at State Cross Country

 23rd June, 2007 

The Willandra Country Classic – State Cross Country Championships held at Willandra on Saturday exceeded expectations on all levels. Great results, well attended events and a very friendly atmosphere enjoyed by everyone. 

The Nowra Athletics Club swung into top gear to accommodate the State Championships with all the precision of a finely tuned machine on the weekend. Courses in tip top condition, easy access to facilities, motivated and competent race officials, delicious country style food and a rising rendition of Advance Australia Fair – all before the first race!

The weather was perfect just like every other day in cross country heaven. 

Local athletes were in every event and shone throughout the days proceedings. There were some outstanding performances from individual athletes and by the Club’s teams.  

Sponsors Nowra Sportspower and the Manildra Group could not have been happier with the performance of the Club’s teams notably the 55+ women’s team (Jill Smith, Maureen Cox, Eva Moeller-Duhme and Rosine Evans) who won the State gold for the third year running. The 55+ men’s team (Milton Cox, Kevyn Davis, Rob Pickard and Jack Robertson) stepped up to the elite level this year and took out the State Silver medal. 

Up and coming local athlete, Hamish Gorman ran a fabulous race in the U/20 men’s event claiming a Bronze medal and shared the podium with former Nowra Athletics Club runner Chris McDonald who won the Gold.    

Linda Weatherill won the State Silver medal in the 40+ Women’s category while Rob Pickard also won the State Silver medal in the 55+ Men’s. 

Some other outstanding performances came from Jyle Smith (U/14 Country Champion), Elisha Borodzicz (2nd Country Womens) and Jon Schol who was the first local runner home in the Open Men’s event. 

A crowd favourite once again was the Kel Campbell Pty Ltd “All Together Fun Run” which saw many families enjoying the courses and the great atmosphere. 

All in all another successful NSW State Cross Country Championship run by the Nowra Athletics Club, well supported by local businesses and the people of the Shoalhaven. 

The Management Committee of the Nowra Athletics Club would like to thank all members, relatives of members and friends of the club for their help and assistance in making the Willandra Country Classic a resounding success. 

Another upcoming event (Sunday 15th July) run by the Nowra Athletics Club is the Shoalhaven King of the Mountain. The “King” is a 32km endurance race which runs from Cambewarra Village to the Kangaroo Valley Showground via Mt Scanzi. For entry forms and further inquiries contact Andrew Johnstone 4421 3849. 

All Cross Country runners need to take particular note that the scheduled run for this weekend will not be at the Forrest Course as planned. Due to recent heavy rains and unfavourable course conditions this coming Saturdays (30.6.07) run has been transferred to the Longreach Course, Longreach Road Longreach (off Yalwal road), Longreach (west of Nowra). 

Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. New members are always welcome, for further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday. We all look forward to seeing you at Longreach on Saturday.

 

 

Newspaper Report  13-06-07

Classic Fun Run at Willandra 

The Nowra Athletics Club invites everyone to take part in the “Country Classic” (NSW State Cross Country Championships) by entering in the Altogether Fun Run held at “Willandra” Browns Mountain Road, Cambewarra on Saturday June 23rd which commences at around 1pm. 

The Country Classic Altogether Fun Run is a fun event open to any person or family wishing to have a run at the Shoalhaven’s home of cross country running. There will be two Fun Runs - one a 2km event and the other a 4km. Both fun runs are sponsored by Kel Campbell Pty. Ltd and feature prizes for the young and the young at heart.  

The Altogether Fun Run will no doubt be a fantastic event and a great way to spend an hour or so on a Saturday afternoon. 

To be part of the best Fun Run in the Shoalhaven simply turn up on the day and give your details and nominal entry fee of $5 per person or $10 per family to race officials in the administration area prior to the 1.10pm start. It’s as easy as that!  

The Nowra Athletics Club will be hosting the NSW Cross Country Championships on the same day as the Altogether Fun Run.  

Club members are reminded that the first event, the U/12 male and female 2 km race, starts at 12.15pm sharp. Runners need to submit entry forms and pay the entry fee as early as possible prior to the commencement of each event.  

Thanks to the generosity of local sponsors Sportspower Nowra and the Manildra Group, Club Members need only pay $5 per entry. The Administration Area will be open from around 10am to accommodate early entries. 

To keep everyone informed, Club members and their families will receive (by post) a “Country Classic” information brochure giving all details on State Championship events and the Altogether Fun Runs.   

Officials urge all members to take part in this great day by entering the Championship events, the “Altogether Fun Run” or by assisting as an official or helper. Club members taking part in the State Championships and Country Classic in either capacity will receive bonus points in the regular Nowra Toyota Winter Point Score for their support and participation. 

At last weekend’s regular Cross Country running, race officials were forced to cancel due to inclement weather and very slippery conditions. The Club sincerely apologises for any inconvenience caused but is duty bound to put safety as the first consideration when deciding on such matters. 

This Saturday’s Cross Country running will be held at the Longreach Course, Longreach Road, Longreach. Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there!  

 

Newspaper Report  13-06-07

Classic Fun Run at Willandra 

The Nowra Athletics Club invites everyone to take part in the “Country Classic” (NSW State Cross Country Championships) by entering in the Altogether Fun Run held at “Willandra” Browns Mountain Road, Cambewarra on Saturday June 23rd which commences at around 1pm. 

The Country Classic Altogether Fun Run is a fun event open to any person or family wishing to have a run at the Shoalhaven’s home of cross country running. There will be two Fun Runs - one a 2km event and the other a 4km. Both fun runs are sponsored by Kel Campbell Pty. Ltd and feature prizes for the young and the young at heart.  

The Altogether Fun Run will no doubt be a fantastic event and a great way to spend an hour or so on a Saturday afternoon. 

To be part of the best Fun Run in the Shoalhaven simply turn up on the day and give your details and nominal entry fee of $5 per person or $10 per family to race officials in the administration area prior to the 1.10pm start. It’s as easy as that!  

The Nowra Athletics Club will be hosting the NSW Cross Country Championships on the same day as the Altogether Fun Run.  

Club members are reminded that the first event, the U/12 male and female 2 km race, starts at 12.15pm sharp. Runners need to submit entry forms and pay the entry fee as early as possible prior to the commencement of each event.  

Thanks to the generosity of local sponsors Sportspower Nowra and the Manildra Group, Club Members need only pay $5 per entry. The Administration Area will be open from around 10am to accommodate early entries. 

To keep everyone informed, Club members and their families will receive (by post) a “Country Classic” information brochure giving all details on State Championship events and the Altogether Fun Runs.   

Officials urge all members to take part in this great day by entering the Championship events, the “Altogether Fun Run” or by assisting as an official or helper. Club members taking part in the State Championships and Country Classic in either capacity will receive bonus points in the regular Nowra Toyota Winter Point Score for their support and participation. 

At last weekend’s regular Cross Country running, race officials were forced to cancel due to inclement weather and very slippery conditions. The Club sincerely apologises for any inconvenience caused but is duty bound to put safety as the first consideration when deciding on such matters. 

This Saturday’s Cross Country running will be held at the Longreach Course, Longreach Road, Longreach. Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there!

 

Cross Country at Longreach- 26th May, 2007

Round 8 

Club on Saturday afternoon. It was a great turnout with large numbers of runners in the shorter and medium course events and plenty of competitive spirit in the long course events.  

Talking of competitions, runners Jyle Smith, Peter Heald and Jon Davies had another battle of will and endurance in Division 1 of the medium course on Saturday, with Jyle coming home just a little quicker on this occasion. In the other divisions of the Medium course, runners Josh Somerville, Andrew Johnstone, Cathy Rodden, Laurel Ferrington, Sheryl Bruffey and Claire Pitkethly showed what they were made of with hard fought victories – well done! 

A very large field of runners in the 2km event kept race officials busy although the new starting and finishing areas made things run considerably smoother. Keen competition in Division 1A of the 2km course saw Bridget Kellett take first place just ahead of Liam Heald and Jed Frank. In Division 1B Michael Dunne came in first with Alistar Clark and Tracey Burinaga not far behind in second and third place.  

Luke Kellett kept up the family tradition on Saturday by winning Division 2, Liam Dooley and Carmel Quinten also had strong runs to claim the placings. In the Division 3 contest Callum Lowbridge, Hannah Brookes and Kyla Davidson all had good performances and will be ones to watch over the coming seasons. 

The 3km event brought out the best in the Club’s younger runners this week. In Division 1 Rose Dooley ended well clear for fist place while Aaron Strickland and Moruya Henderson had great races finishing second and third. In Division 2 Brett Ford, Angela Ford and Les Gernyi made it look easy as they came over the finish line for the main placings. 

The Long Course event on Saturday saw Terry Threlfall return to the winners circle in Division 2 while Sky Martin and Chris Davies maintained their presence in the circle with good runs as well. In Division 1 Robert Sommerville, Linda Weatherill and Richard Bosdyk were consistent on the hills and came home strongly for the points. 

Congratulations to all Club runners who competed in the recent Canberra Half Marathon. By all accounts it was a great day with some even greater performances, especially from all the Half Marathon first timers - Maxine Gernyi, Di Ozolins and Michelle Cumming – excellent work girls!   

Talking of all things great, Nowra Athletics Club is competing at the State Cross Country Relays in Sydney on the weekend. No doubt our teams of athletes will all do us proud. Best of luck gang!  

This Saturday’s Nowra Toyota Pointscore - Cross Country running will be at Timberhills, McKinnons Farm, Kell’s Road, Tomerong. To find Timberhills, simply drive South down the Princes Hwy and look for a right hand turn (Kell’s Road) marked with X-Country signs on the Tomerong by-pass. Travel up Kell’s Road for about 1.5km till you reach Timberhills on the right hand side.  

Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there!

By Doug Jeffrey

Cross Country at Willandra - 19th May 2007

Round 7 

Cross country runners had an unusual start to the regular outing on the weekend – there were no handicaps! 

It was later revealed that the Saturday racing at Willandra was a “sealed handicap” event whereby every runner had to start at the Go mark of their particular event. The handicaps would then be revealed in the pointscore table in today’s South Coast Register. 

Naturally the change created a little tension and a sense of expectation for some. However the racing was conducted in a great spirit and provided a very friendly atmosphere overall. 

The interesting handicap arrangements gave the Club’s more speedier runners the opportunity to take line honours if they were up to the challenge! 

In the 2km event, Division 1 frontrunner Gus Frank sprinted down the straight at the finish a minute clear of Jed Frank while Arie Van Arkel came in a little further back for third. The Division 2 contest saw a close finish with Max Vucic, Nathan Ford and Cathy Head leading the pack home. Great running by Courtney Harrison, Kieran Harrison and Lauren Stahlhut gave them the placings in Division 3. Other notable performances in the 2km event came from Callum Lowbridge, Sean Coulton and Hannah Brookes. 

In the longer 3km event the same handful of runners who seem to be first home week after week came in triumphant again. Young Hayden Strand was well clear in Division 1 while Michaela Quinn and Brendan Kellett picked up 2nd and 3rd. In Division 2 Ethan Dunne had another strong showing coming home first while Michael Thompson and Rose Vucic were more than competitive claiming the placings on this occasion. 

The big guns in the Medium course were primed and ready for action on Saturday and as expected they did not disappoint. Racing enthusiasts watched with anticipation as the runners set off around the track and disappeared going up to the back hill section of the course. Placings in all three Division were very close with many a battle taking its toll on competitors in the final stages.  

In Division 1, Jake Ring crossed first in a time of 14.23 while Paul Davidson returning to his best form came in second. A few moments later Alex Pitkethly flew home for a well earned third place.

Division 2 runners know how to race when the pressures on - as was evident on the weekend. Mick McDonnell (1st), Graham Smith(2nd) and Jeff Dinning(3rd) all ran up the back straight together before the final turn down to the finish line. Well done gents!  

Terry Bailey, Tracey Bowen and Lucia Vernon made a hard race look easy coming home well clear of the field to claim victory in Division 3. 

Long course runners enjoyed the cooler weather conditions with most runners returning pleasing results at this point in the season. In Division 1 Michael Troy, Damian Smith and Jeff Rayner all had a great race and crossed the line first. In Division 2 Kevyn Davis got the legs pumping up the hills and kicked on to finish well clear with Jack Robertson and Chris Davies claiming second and third.

 All in all another great Saturday at cross country running. The normal handicap arrangements resume at this coming Saturday’s Nowra Toyota Pointscore.  

Club members are reminded that Nowra Athletics Club will be conducting a Fun Teams Event and Family Picnic Day this Sunday 27th May at the Timberhills cross country course at Tomerong. If you are interested in running please contact Kevyn Davis on 4447 8309. 

Another date for your running calendar is Saturday June 23rd where Nowra Athletics Club will once again be playing host to the NSW Cross Country Championships (“Willandra Country Classic”) at the Willandra Course Brown’s Mountain Rd, Cambewarra. 

The “Willandra Country Classic” features a number of fun runs (open to the general public – young and old) and has a full card of State Championship races. All club members who participate at the “Willandra Country Classic” will be allocated points in the Nowra Toyota Pointscore competition. Bonus points are also awarded for members who volunteer to help out in the various work areas. 

This Saturday’s Cross Country running will be held at the Longreach Course, Longreach Road, Longreach. Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there!

By Doug Jeffrey 

Round 5 - Longreach Rd  5-05-07

 

Cross Country at Longreach

An enormous turnout of runners and fabulous weather conditions made for a great afternoon of cross country running at the Longreach course on Saturday afternoon.

Families and friends once again making the most of life - enjoying the wide open spaces of the Shoalhaven!

With so many keen runners, club officials were forced to call for volunteers to man the turn around points in the 2km and 3km events. Fortunately some conscientious members came forward to assist and racing was underway.

Cathy Head was the first Division 1 runner home in the 2km event and was closely followed in by Max Vucic and Brendan Kellett. At the front of the Division 2 group runners Angus Clark, Stephanie Van Arkel and Michael Dunne all crossed the line within a few seconds of each other. Noteable performances in Division 3 came from Sophie Phillips, Angus Lowbridge, Jonty Bond and Luke Kellett.

The 3km event saw an extremely close finish with Mitchell Bricklebank crossing the line first while Nathan Weatherill and Leane Davidson almost tied for second place! In Division 2 Julie Evans, Ethan Dunne and Joel Brindle all had good runs finishing in near record times.

The warmer conditions made racing in the longer events a little more interesting. But as we all know Long and Medium course runners from the Nowra Athletics Club are hardened competitors and never make excuses!

Mick McDonnell, Michael Kest and Peter Heald were deserved winners in the various Divisions of the 5.6km Medium course event.

In Division 1 of the Long course event runners Bill Stahlhut, Adam Coulton and Linda Weatherill made light work of the hills finishing first. In the Division 2 contest Eva Moeller-Duhme posted a great time to claim 1st place while Sky Martin and Michelle Cumming also had terrific runs finishing second and third.

In other athletic news, club runners Cristine Suffolk (Gold) and Jeff Rayner (Silver) performed brilliantly in the 10km event at the State Road Run Championships held at Appin on the weekend. Fellow runners Jake Ring and Hayden Miller also represented the Club and competed with distinction in their chosen events.

Club members are reminded that Nowra Athletics Club will be conducting a Fun Teams Event and Family Picnic Day on Sunday 27th May at the Timberhills cross country course at Tomerong.

The event will be open to teams of runners (up to a maximum of 8) with 6 individual races with 2 team members competing in each. Individual runners will also be accepted and allocated to suitable teams.

Please make your enquiries now by contacting Kevyn Davis on 4447 8309 or by speaking to any committee member.

This Saturday’s Nowra Toyota Pointscore - Cross Country running will be at the Timberhills course, McKinnons Farm, Kell’s Road, Tomerong. To find Timberhills, simply drive South down the Princes Hwy and look for a right hand turn (Kell’s Road) marked with Cross-Country signs on the Tomerong by-pass. Travel up Kell’s Road for about 1.5km till you reach Timberhills on the right hand side.

Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday!

By Doug Jeffrey

 Willandra - Round 4 & AGM Presentation Night

 28 - 04 - 07

 

Nowra Athletics Club AGM and Presentation

The Nowra Athletics Club finished off another great season of athletics at its 47th Annual AGM and Presentation evening held in North Nowra on Saturday night.

Athletes, family and friends shared a few stories and enjoyed the presentations of awards and medals for athletic achievements for the 2006/07 Summer Athletics and 2006 Cross Country seasons.

Guests included Deputy Mayor Mr Peter Murphy and all “Life Members” of the Nowra Athletics Club.

Additions to the Club’s Life Members list, announced at the presentation, were John Price and Terry Bailey. Both gentlemen have for many years worked tirelessly for the club and the sport of athletics and are well deserved of the honour – congratulations and thank you.

Another worker and long time member Bernie Condon received the “Club Person of the Year” award for his consistent efforts both on and off the field.

Athletes with consistent and notable performances were recognised in all Categories and Divisions in both the 2006/07 Summer Athletics and 2006 Cross Country competitions.

Club members who received awards for consistent effort and achievement throughout the competitions included Rebecca Brindle(John Morris Junior Encouragement Award), Bronwyn Jeffrey(Ian Henry Senior Encouragement Award), Sarah Godwin(Junior Handicappers’ Award) and Elisa Godwin(Senior Handicappers’ Award). Fantastic!

Long distance specialist Michael Troy received the “Neville Markham Distance Runners Award” for a superb result at the ANSW State Marathon where he overcame the 43 km event in style and finished in 6th place.

The Club’s most prestigious athletic honour, the “Frank McCaffrey Shield for Performance of the Year” was awarded to local rising star Erin Binks. Given for her outstanding achievement at the ANSW State Open 400m, where she received the Bronze medal finishing in a personal best time of 56.71 seconds.

Club officials would like to thank all athletes, officials, families and friends who took part in the 2006/07 competitions for their participation and assistance throughout the season.

For all Club members looking to enjoy another great day out Nowra Athletics Club will be conducting the annual Fun Teams Event and Family Picnic Day on Sunday 27th May at the Timberhills cross country course at Tomerong.

The event will be open to teams of runners (upto a maximum of 8) with 6 individual races with 2 team members in each. Individual runners will also be accepted and allocated to suitable teams.

The Fun Teams Event and Family Picnic Day is a handicapped race and will be very similar to last year’s event, which turned out to be a fantastic day! So please, make your enquiries now by contacting Kevyn Davies on 4447 8309 or by speaking to any committee member.

This Saturday’s Nowra Toyota Pointscore - Cross Country running will be at the Longreach Course, Longreach Road, Longreach. Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday.

Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there!

By Doug Jeffrey

Round 3 - Timberhills 21 - 04 - 07

 

Cross Country

Cross country enthusiasts were out in force on Saturday running through the bush tracks and over the fast and flat grassed sections of the beautiful Timberhills course at McKinnon’s Farm in Tomerong.

The Nowra Toyota Winter Pointscore once again attracted large numbers of competitors. The 2km and 3km events were most popular with the new and younger members of the Club. The Medium and Long course events saw the return of more seasoned athletes and those stepping up to take the challenge of a demanding course with considerably steeper hills.

One of the best races on Saturday, the Medium course event - was divided into three divisions. This weeks Division 1 contest attracted some of the Clubs finest athletes with Ulladulla pair Martin Tomasini and Jake Ring having a great battle for first and second place. Laura Daley, one of the Club’s up and coming younger runners, had a great race also and came in for a well deserved third place.

Division 2 runner Angela Bond, showing the benefits of early morning training sessions, finished ahead of the pack for first place. Jeff Dinning had another strong run for a second week in a row while the evergreen finisher Graham Smith took third place.

The Division 3 medium event was no less competitive with Jamie Norman, Terry Bailey and Bill Rogan all playing the tactical card to out manoeuvre the rest of the field.

In the Long Course event veteran campaigner Graeme Pepper hit the back hills of the course with a vengeance and skipped away at pace through the wooded sections - which ultimately led to a convincing victory in the well attended event. A short time later Bill Stahlhut (2nd) and Jeff Rayner (3rd) fought hard right to the line for another great finish.

In Division 2, Doug Jeffrey got away early and finished in first place. Dean Bryce and Michelle Cumming overcame the tough conditions for second and third.

In the 3km event Mitchell Bricklebank, Yolanda Van Arkel and Tarlou Smith were the best of the Division 1 runners. The Division 2 runners Joel Knight, Joel Brindle and Fiona Phillips finished strongly claiming the honours in the final stages of the race.

In Saturdays’ 2km event Division 1 runner Alistair Cook had another great run finishing first while fierce competitors Mia Davidson and Paige Connolly Davies came in close behind for second and third.

In Division 2, Jonty Bond, Hamish Heald and Michaela Bryce were the strongest finishing in the top three.

This coming Saturdays’ Cross Country running will be at Willandra, Browns Mountain Road, Cambewarra. Registration and administration will be from 2.15pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday.

Club members are reminded that on Saturday evening the Nowra Athletics Club AGM and Presentation evening will be held at the Illaroo Road Public School Hall, Illaroo Road, North Nowra starting at 7.45 pm.

All Club members, family and friends are invited to attend - it’s always a great evening, so please bring a plate, enjoy the speakers and the social aspects afterwards. Hope to see you there!

By Doug Jeffrey  

Round 2 - Willandra 14 - 04 - 07

 
Cross Country

On Saturday afternoon Round 1 of the Nowra Toyota Winter Pointscore competition saw many new members and their families taking full advantage of the cooler conditions to run the Willandra course.

With the absence of handicaps and divisions (for round 1 only) - all runners went off together at the start of each event, all competitors will receive points for participating.

Many a hard pitched battle took place this week with runners in the Long and Medium courses making a concerted effort to climb the back hill.

Damian Smith and Patrick Ozolins made a great contest of the long course - the race being decided with a sprint over the last 200 metres. Younger legs winning on this occasion!

Medium Course runner Paul Davidson posted another solid performance with Peter Dooley and Brad Coates not far away for second and third.

Runners Moruya Henderson, Yasmin Smith and Natasha Moore blitzed the field in the 3km event to secure the winning honours for females. Hayden Miller, Jon Davies and Lou Reali ran well again for the second consecutive week – well done lads!

In the 2km event Zac Jones was the first male runner home and was closely followed by Gus Stretton and Brendon Kellett. Young female runners Mackenzie Ring, Mia Davidson and Bridget Kellett showed great strength and determination to be the first girls home – great effort!

The regular Saturday cross country event is known as the Nowra Toyota Winter Pointscore and has been a regular feature of the Nowra Athletics Club Cross Country Calendar for several years.

It comprises a 20 week competition where each competitor’s top 14 scores contribute to their overall position in their division for that year. Winners in each division are recognised at the end of the season with winner’s certificates and followed-up with trophies at the Clubs’ AGM and Presentation evening.

This year’s AGM and presentation evening will be on the 28th April at 7.30pm at the Illaroo Road Public School assembly hall. Awards and trophies from the 2006 Cross Country season and the 2006 – 2007 Summer Athletics Competition will be presented.

Other events to note on the Runners’ Calendar for 2007 are the Willandra “Country Classic” – Cross Country Gala and State Championships on Saturday 23rd June and the Shoalhaven King of the Mountain 32 km endurance event on Sunday 15 July.

Club officials look forward to another successful and enjoyable season and urge all members and their families to enjoy the courses, events and the friendly people from the Nowra Athletics Club.

This Saturday’s Cross Country running will be at the Willandra course, Brown’s Mountain Road, Cambewarra. A 2007 Cross Country Season programme with information outlining dates, courses etc’ is available for all newcomers and members at the administration area.

Registration and administration will be from 1.30pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday.

By Doug Jeffrey
 

Round 1 - Willandra - 7/04/07

 

Cross Country

On Saturday afternoon Round 1 of the Nowra Toyota Winter Pointscore competition saw many new members and their families taking full advantage of the cooler conditions to run the Willandra course.

With the absence of handicaps and divisions (for round 1 only) - all runners went off together at the start of each event, all competitors will receive points for participating.

Many a hard pitched battle took place this week with runners in the Long and Medium courses making a concerted effort to climb the back hill.

Damian Smith and Patrick Ozolins made a great contest of the long course - the race being decided with a sprint over the last 200 metres. Younger legs winning on this occasion!

Medium Course runner Paul Davidson posted another solid performance with Peter Dooley and Brad Coates not far away for second and third.

Runners Moruya Henderson, Yasmin Smith and Natasha Moore blitzed the field in the 3km event to secure the winning honours for females. Hayden Miller, Jon Davies and Lou Reali ran well again for the second consecutive week – well done lads!

In the 2km event Zac Jones was the first male runner home and was closely followed by Gus Stretton and Brendon Kellett. Young female runners Mackenzie Ring, Mia Davidson and Bridget Kellett showed great strength and determination to be the first girls home – great effort!

The regular Saturday cross country event is known as the Nowra Toyota Winter Pointscore and has been a regular feature of the Nowra Athletics Club Cross Country Calendar for several years.

It comprises a 20 week competition where each competitor’s top 14 scores contribute to their overall position in their division for that year. Winners in each division are recognised at the end of the season with winner’s certificates and followed-up with trophies at the Clubs’ AGM and Presentation evening.

This year’s AGM and presentation evening will be on the 28th April at 7.30pm at the Illaroo Road Public School assembly hall. Awards and trophies from the 2006 Cross Country season and the 2006 – 2007 Summer Athletics Competition will be presented.

Other events to note on the Runners’ Calendar for 2007 are the Willandra “Country Classic” – Cross Country Gala and State Championships on Saturday 23rd June and the Shoalhaven King of the Mountain 32 km endurance event on Sunday 15 July.

Club officials look forward to another successful and enjoyable season and urge all members and their families to enjoy the courses, events and the friendly people from the Nowra Athletics Club.

This Saturday’s Cross Country running will be at the Willandra course, Brown’s Mountain Road, Cambewarra. A 2007 Cross Country Season programme with information outlining dates, courses etc’ is available for all newcomers and members at the administration area.

Registration and administration will be from 1.30pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday.

By Doug Jeffrey

Fun Day - Willandra Report 31-03-07

 
Cross Country

A beautiful sunny day, cross country courses lush with green grass and a stunning mountain backdrop. What more could anyone want or need in their life!

Cross country runners turned out in good numbers for the beginning of the Nowra Athletics Club’s Cross Country Pointscore Competition for 2007 at Wilandra, Cambewarra on Saturday afternoon.

A warm welcome and a few announcements from Club Patron Rod Gibb and Club President Kevyn Davis preceded the start of the first event. Runners and their families were made aware of the upcoming season that features a graded Pointscore Competition were runners will be grouped in divisions and given handicaps to equalise the differences in ability and fitness levels. A competition designed to give everyone a chance to be a winner.

Talking of winners - events on Saturday saw a number of club runners in fine form despite the fairly warm conditions.

Jon Schol took the lead early and pressed home the advantage to be clear winner in the 4km event and was followed home by Alex Pitkethly and Paul Davidson. Women runners Cristine Suffolk, Erin Binks and Lisa Godwin set the pace and were first home in very respectable times.

Long Course newcomer Zahra Wells made light work of the 8 km course, finishing well clear of all the other female competitors. Damian Smith, Jeff Rayner and Patrick Ozolins were the first male runners home.

In the 2km event, boys Gus Stretton, Zac Jones and Brendan Kellett looked in good condition coming down the straight first. Girl runners Paige Connolly Davies, Gabby Brennan and Kirraly Rayner had good season openers as well.

Male runners Jyle Smith, Hayden Miller and Jon Davies fought all the way in the 3km race to finish first. A short while later Michaela Quinn, Natasha Moore and Yolanda Van Arkel were the first female runners’ home.

In other Athletics news, Club members Cristine Suffolk (1500 & 5000), Paul Davidson (3000 Steeplechase) and Bernie Condon(60, 80 & 200) won gold at the NSW Masters Athletics State Meeting, held in Cambelltown recently. Clubman Geoff Crook also performed well, finishing 4th in the Men’s Javelin event. Well done!

This Saturday’s Cross Country running will again be at the Wilandra course, Brown’s Mountain Road, Cambewarra. A 2007 Cross Country Season programme with information outlining dates, courses etc’ is available for all newcomers and members at the administration area. Registration and administration will be from 1.00pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday.

By Doug Jeffrey

Cross Country To Start 31- 03 - 07

 

Cross Country Begins

On your mark, set and go - the Nowra Athletics Club’s winter season and Cross Country Competition for 2007 is up and running from this Saturday and everyone’s invited!

On Saturday, follow the signs to Willandra, Brown’s Mountain Road, Cambewarra where registration and administration is from 1.30 pm with the first event starting at around 2.30 pm.

Bring your family, bring your friends and see some of Australia’s best Cross Country courses. Relax in the friendly surrounds of a truly family club where everyone has the opportunity to be part of a great sport no matter what their level of fitness or athletic ability.

From Saturday 31st March through to Saturday August 26th the Nowra Athletics Club will be conducting a two series competition of cross country running. The competition features two shorter distance events of 2 and 3 kilometres, a medium distance event of 4 to 6 kilometres and a long distance event of 8 to 12 kilometres. All events are graded with handicaps given and adjusted to suit each individual runner’s ability to that of the other runners in their grade/division.

The various grades and handicap system make the competition both interesting and fair. Enabling all athletes to compete and enjoy the cross country experience.

The four beautiful courses of Willandra, Timberhills, Longreach and “The Forest” offer a variety of conditions each with their own set of challenges.

The Willandra course has three testing tracks with a number of hills and slopes designed to challenge the spirit of the middle and long distance runners. It also features ample parking, amenities blocks and covered areas. The “Country Canteen” serves light refreshments with a choice of hot or cold drinks.

The Timberhills course ( McKinnon’s Farm, Kell’s Road, Tomerong) offers scenic bush courses with rainforests, creeks and some open field running.

At the Longreach and “The Forest” courses runners are treated to varying conditions with fast flat sections, bushy areas and one or two hills for the longer course runners.

Cross country running is the ideal family sport where everyone can have a go. So pack a few drinks, a picnic rug and wear your running shoes. That’s all you’ll need to have a fantastic family afternoon enjoying the great Australian outdoors.

In other Athletics news, the Nowra Athletics Club’s AGM and Presentation evening will be held on Saturday April 28th at the School Assembly Hall of Illaroo Road Public School, North Nowra starting at 7.45 pm.

As mentioned this Saturday’s Cross Country running will be at the Wilandra course, Brown’s Mountain Road, Cambewarra. Registration and administration will be from 1.30pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or simply come along on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there!

By - Doug Jeffrey

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