|
Nowra Athletics Club |
|
|
Cross Country – Willandra The Willandra course was a true cross country runners paradise on Saturday, muddy and slippery and rain bursting from the sky randomly just to add to the delight of it all! Those up to the challenge thoroughly enjoyed themselves, belting along the track in the 1km and 3km pairs races, finishing with smiles on their faces and “mudded up” from head to toe! What a way to finish the season! Whilst indulging in the delights of the kindly donated goodies from the club runners, YUM, a short presentation ensued, announcing all divisional winners in the Nowra Toyota Pointscore Competition. Congratulations must go to all, the hard work has paid off and you can now revel in the accolades! Worth noting, are the winning styles of Medium Course Division 2 winner Dean “Deano” Bryce and Medium Course Division 3 winner Holly Bond. Deano is well known for his corner cutting techniques whilst running, nothing is sacred, and if there is a corner to be cut he will find it! In fact we are all awaiting the arrival of his first novel, Corner Cutting for Dummies! Now, Holly Bond is a different story altogether! Throughout the cross country season, friendly rivalry ensued between Holly and fellow runner Maxine Gernyi, Holly often sailing past Maxine in the last 100 metres or so of a race, smiling broadly. Maxine has now aptly named Holly the “smiling assassin!” And you all thought running was just about running! Full results and placing’s are available for viewing from the Nowra Athletics Club website and also the sports scoreboard of the South Coast Register. Of course, everyone who has spent some time at cross country this year is , in my books, a winner. A big thankyou goes out to all the volunteers and officials who helped make the 2011 cross country run as smoothly as it did and of course gratitude as always to Jan and Rod Gibb who put the “carry on” into the workings of the Nowra Athletic Club. You are both gems! A thank you must also go out to athletes, officials and their families who represented the club at State events this year, well done everyone. Summer road runs will kick off this Saturday at the Nowra showground, with running starting at 4pm sharp, the course being 6kms. Looking forward to seeing you all there. A must do event to add to your sporting calendar is the string relay which is being held from Bendeela to Berry, on Sunday September 11th. This is a great event and well worth giving a go. Starting time is 10am and anyone interested should contact Kevyn Davis 44478309 or Terry Bailey 44216065 as soon as possible. Also, to keep you on your toes, track and field starts Wednesday September 14 at 6pm sharp with administration from 5.30pm. The venue is the Ron Brown Sporting Complex, behind Shoalhaven High School. Any enquiries can be directed to club secretary Jan Gibb, 4446 0226. The programs for the Road Running is now on this website and the Track and Field will follow soon. “It was once said, personality is born out of pain. If that’s accurate, then we runners are quite the personable bunch of characters.”
|
|
|
Cross Country – Longreach Nowra Athletics Club top performers this winter, Michaela Quinn and Alex Pitkethly will join Jed Frank and Jye Edwards at the Australian Cross country championships in Canberra next Saturday. Club officials John Morris and Rod Gibb will also be in action though not on the running course. Rod is the Technical manager for the Championships and John the assistant referee |
|
|
A
beautiful sunshiny day set the scene for round 18 of the Nowra
Toyota Pointscore held at Longreach on Saturday. Although numbers
were down a little due to many Nowra Athletics Club runners resting
up for the City to Surf on Sunday, a day of good healthy competition
was had by all. The course was at its best with many finishing the
final run for the cross country season with a fantastic time. Great
effort everyone! Full results and placing’s now available for
viewing on the Nowra Athletics Club website and the South Coast
Register Sports Scoreboard. This Saturday Willandra will be holding the end of season “Team’s Event” and presentation of certificates and special awards. This should prove to be a day of great fun for everyone, with lots of stories told and memories shared. |
|
|
Be sure to bring a plate of yummy food along and make an afternoon of it. Any queries, just contact club secretary Jan Gibb, 4446 0226. Looking forward to seeing you all there! With the ending of the cross country season comes the start of the Summer Road Runs! I’m afraid there is no rest for the wicked! So don’t pack your running shoes away just yet. The first race for series one will be held at the Nowra course (Nowra Showground) on Saturday August 27 with the start time being 4pm sharp. All courses are approximately 6km and any information regarding the summer road runs can be found on the Nowra Athletics Club website. If that is not enough to whet your appetite, Track and Field starts on Wednesday September 14 at the Ron Brown Sporting Complex, Park Road Nowra. Administration is from 5.30pm with the first events starting at 6pm sharp. Track and Field has something for everyone, young and not so young, experienced or inexperienced, so come on, give it a go, you are sure to enjoy yourself. Of course, information can be found on the club’s website regarding Track and Field. Lots to look forward to and keep you inspired in the great sport of athletics. Up to date information about competitions, results, cancellations and upcoming events can be found on this website. “You’ve got to try and reach for the stars or try and achieve the unachievable.” - Cathy Freeman
|
|
|
Cross Country Report - Dapto
The second round of the McCaffrey Challenge was held at the Kembla Joggers home ground of Dapto on Saturday, this being round 17 of the Nowra Toyota Pointscore. A good representation of Nowra runners and their families rolled up for an afternoon of friendly rivalry, although numbers were down slightly from last year. Although a reasonably flat course, it was a general consensus amongst runners that it still was a challenge, lots of grass underfoot and it seemed never ending. Nowra runners put in a fine effort, however, Kembla Joggers proved too strong on the day and won all divisions. |
|
|
The committee would like thank all competitors for travelling to Dapto and taking part in the McCaffrey Challenge, it is very much appreciated. Also thanks must go to Bernie and Peter Condon, for coming along and being our “support crew” for the day. Alex Pitkethly had the pack chasing him in the 8km but they couldn’t get close, Alex taking the accolades for first position! Fantastic run, Alex. Nowra did particularly well in the 4km, with Aaron Spiesberger running on fire to take first place, while Joel Lord and Michaela Quinn did their best to win 3rd and 4th consecutively. Great effort everyone! Peter Dooley ran well to place 4th in the 3km division, and, being a glutton for punishment, ran in the 4km race as well! Peter must have had lots of weetbix for breakfast! Consistent young runner Shanae Edwards also had great day, placing 4th in the 2km division. Well done, guys! A sealed handicap was the challenge for competitors on the day, all running off “go”. I must say, after the handicaps were added and places were corrected, results were neckand neck close, only seconds apart, and some equal finishes! |
|
|
Mr handicapper is certainly on the ball! Check this website or the South Coast Register Sportsboard for full results and placing’s. Round 18 will be held at the Longreach course on Saturday. Hard to believe, but this is the last round of the competition, with the following week being the end of season “teams event!” So come along and finish the season with your best running yet! For any cross country enquiries, Jan Gibb is the person to contact 4446 0226. Up to date information about competitions, results, cancellations and upcoming events can be found on the Nowra Athletics Club website.
-“The man who can drive himself further once the effort gets
painful is the man who will win.”
|
|
|
Cross Country Report To important Information re McCaffrey Challenge The State Short Course Cross Country Championships were held on Saturday at Rydalmere amidst agreeable weather conducive to good running. A respectable representation of Nowra Athletic Club runners contested the course, enjoying the day and high standard of competition. Chrissie Suffolk ran especially well, bringing home the silver medal for the 40 – 44 years age group. Well done, Chrissie! Alex Pitkethly put up a good fight to take 4th position in the men’s under 23 age group, and likewise for Milton Cox in the men’s over 55 years. The ever consistent team of under 14 boys, Angus Pryde, Jye Edwards, Zac Havadjia and Oscar Edwards put in a great team effort to come in at 4th position. Not to be outdone, the under 12 girls’ team of Shanae Edwards, Layne Jones and sisters Jade and Tara Mustapic also took the accolades for 4th. Talking family Mustapic, Glenn also enjoyed the challenge of running the course. Clayton and James Gibb, known amicably as the “Hong Kong Grandkids”, put their best feet forward to run well in their individual age groups, the under 12 and under 18 boys consecutively. Fantastic effort everyone! Round 16 of the Nowra Toyota Pointscore was held at that constantly testing course, Timberhills. Sunny skies greeted the competitors, although the remnants of previous rain remained amongst the course, producing many runners with mud encased legs! Nethertheless, challengers had a good go at hills/mud/bog combination, enjoying the afternoon. The 2km course was named The Bill McKinnon memorial run for the day, with young Jenna Nicholls of division 1A being the Speedy Gonzales to take 1st place, a whole minute faster than her previous best time. Well done, Jenna! To view individual results and placing’s, just check the informative Nowra Athletics website and the South Coast Register Sports Scoreboard. The second series of the McCaffrey challenge is being held at Dapto on Saturday, this being round 17 of the Nowra Toyota Pointscore. There are many events on offer, which include the 1km, 2km, 3km, 4km and 8km races. There is something for everyone, and the course is hill free, all this equates to a great day out! So come on everyone, give it a go, camaraderie and perhaps even a PB, are sure to be the order of the day! Relevant details and location are available on the club website. Looking forward to seeing you all there! Jan Gibb, club secretary, is the person to contact, 4446 0226, regarding cross country enquiries. Up to date information about competitions, results, cancellations and upcoming events can be found on this Nowra Athletics Club website. “The greatest stimulator of my running career was fear.” - Herb Elliott.
|
|
|
Cross Country Report Michaela Quinn NSW Cross Country Champion Up and coming Nowra Athletics Club runner Michaela Quinn is certainly one young lady to watch. On Friday July 22nd, she competed at the all schools NSW cross country championships which were held in Sydney. Michaela won the 16 girls event well ahead of her next competitor, proudly bringing home the gold medal. Due to the continuous rain, the event was held on a road surface rather than a cross country track, this proving no barrier to Michaela. For this very talented and dedicated young athlete who trains hard at her sport, the sky is the limit! Well done, Michaela, we are all so very proud of you! Round 15 of the Nowra Toyota Pointscore was held at the Longreach course on Saturday. Surprisingly, the course wasn’t the quagmire we all anticipated, due to experiencing the wettest July in what feels like a million years! Instead, it was quite a pleasant run with only a few sporadic wet patches. Runners enjoyed the afternoon, as cold as it was, most improving their times and some even making the PB hit list! All results and placing’s can be accessed from the informative Nowra Athletics Club website and the Sports Scoreboard of the South Coast Register. This Saturday the State Short Course Cross Country Championship is being held at Rydalmere. Entries for this event are individual and must be completed 'ON LINE'. Club members interested in competing in this State event will find all details including how to enter on Athletics NSW web site. Find the 'link' on our club webpage! The Club will reimburse entry fees. Any enquiries regarding this event should be directed to Club Captain, Peter Dooley on 44418739. A day of fine running and camaraderie is expected by all who participate. Just remember, Club uniform & Registration Numbers must be worn, and allow time to collect your 'timing chip' at the venue, prior to your event. For members choosing not to compete at Rydalmere, Timberhills is the setting for Saturday’s local cross country, this being round 16 of the Nowra Toyota Pointscore. Bring your hill climbing legs, determination and a smile for this very demanding course! For any enquiries regarding cross country, contact club secretary Jan Gibb on 4446 0226. Don’t forget, the second series of the McCaffrey Challenge and our second last round (17) is being held on August 6 at West Dapto. The flat course should be a walk in the park for Nowra Athletics Club runners, so take up the challenge and have a great day out! The events are suitable for all club members, ie 1 & 2k, 3k, 4k & 8k. Details & location map is on this website. To more Information Seasoned athlete Eric Moeller-Duhme will be competing in the gruelling Westlink M7 Marathon in Sydney on Sunday. Eric sealed the deal last year to be the first over 60 male to cross the line, and will be out to defend his title this year with gusto! Good luck Eric, I’m sure all your hard work will pay off! Up to date information about competitions, results, cancellations and upcoming events can be found this Nowra Athletics Club website. “Running well is a matter of having the patience to persevere when we are tired and expecting instant results.” - Robert de Castella
|
|
|
Cross Country Report – Willandra Only the tough and steely hearted braved the biting weather conditions to contest Round 14 of the Nowra Toyota Pointscore on Saturday. Numbers were down due to the challenge of “Jack Frost”, but competitors soon warmed up on the beautiful but demanding Willandra course. The dangling carrot for many was the promise of a hot cuppa and yummy cake awaiting them at the country canteen! Everyone ran extremely well on Saturday, and should be quite pleased with their individual results and placings, which can be accessed from the Nowra Athletics club website as well as the Sports Scoreboard of the South Coast Register. We are now over halfway through the cross country season with only 6 rounds left, where did that time go! However, we still have a lot to look forward to. The next state event, the “Short Course” Cross Country will be held at Rydalmere on July 30 and the second series of the McCaffrey Challenge will be held at West Dapto on August 6. The West Dapto track is a nice flat course, so give it a go, apart from having a great day out, you may even achieve a PB! The mixed terrain track of Longreach will be the venue for this Saturday’s cross country. Registration will be from 2pm, with the first events (1km and 2km) starting at 2pm. Jan Gibb, club secretary, is the person to contact 4446 0226, regarding any enquires, or just turn up on Saturday and give running a go. At the recent Country Classic State Championships, said writer did overlook mentioning the merits of two Nowra Athletics Club members, Jack Robertson and Paul Coombes. Both these runners ran extremely well in the men’s over 65 8km event to take the accolades for country gold and country bronze respectfully. Well done, gentlemen, great effort! Now, if you both actually looked your age and not younger, your results would have been published earlier! The informative Nowra Athletics Club website is where up to date information about competitions, results, any cancellations and upcoming events can be found. “I just felt like running.” - Forrest Gump.
|
|
|
Cross Country Report
- Relays for All |
|
|
Nowra Athletics Club members were involved in relays at two venues last Saturday. The NSW Road Relay Championships were conducted at a wind swept Wollongong Lighthouse Point while the ‘others’ had fun relays at Timberhills, Tomerong. The competition at the State Championships was hot with the strong Sydney teams and the current State Champion club Kembla Joggers at strength despite the school holidays. The Club teams brought home one silver and three bronze medals. |
|
 U14 Boys Relay Team - Left to Right - Jenson Barker, Oscar Edwards, Jed Frank & Angus Pryde. |
 U18 Girls Relay Team - Left to Right - Rose Vucic, Tori Jones, Michaela Quinn & Bridget Kellett. |
|
The under 14 boys continued their silver medal form. Jenson Barker, Oscar Edwards, Jed Frank and Angus Pryde were the team members. Michaela Quinn, Tori Jones, Rose Vucic and Briget Kellett combined for a bronze medal in the under 18 girls 4x3k event. The under 20 men 4x4k bronze medal team was Jed Frank, Harris Scouller, James Gibb and Bradley Sawyers. Great running from these youngsters and not be out done the 55 plus team of Kevyn Davis, Ed Egan, Milton Cox and Andrew Johnstone also brought home a bronze. Eight more teams contested the Championships and though no more medals eventuated their efforts were deserving of a medal. Several doubled up, some were in their own and higher age groups and all showed great club spirit from the under 12s right through to the old folks. "Jed Frank for example ran three times! great work Jed!" The fun relays at Timber Hills attracted a smaller than usual number of runners but fun was had over 1K, 2K and 3K courses as runners combined into teams and were suitably rewarded for their efforts. The Nowra Toyota winter pointscore continues next Saturday at Willandra and this will be round 14. We are well into the winter season and apart for the next four rounds of pointscore one more State cross country event, the short course championships, will be on July 30 at Rydalmere to be followed the next Saturday by the return McCaffrey challenge run at Dapto with the Kembla Joggers Club. Comprehensive information regarding cancellations due to weather, results and upcoming events are available at this Nowra Athletics Website. Plenty to aim at and to keep you running.
|
|
|
Cross Country Report A weekend of glorious weather set the conditions for cross country running at the Longreach course on Saturday and the gruelling 32km endurance race, the King of the Mountain on Sunday. The King. There were multitudes of volunteers who got the “king”, as it affectionately known, on the road and it could not possibly have run as smoothly as it did without the awesome effort everyone put in. From administration assistants, traffic marshals, drink station attendants, computer experts, you name it, they did it! Thankyou everyone, you are all winners! Damien Smith proved once again that this is his race, being the first local male home in a time of 2.18.49 and Sabina Hamaty secured the title of first local female home, her time being 2.47.21. Mind you, for these long distance runners who like to embark on 100km runs, this was most likely just a teaser! Great results, guys! You made Nowra proud! Bill Stalhut ran a great race to take the accolades for being first in the male 50-59 category in a time of 2.25.44 and Peter Junk did just as well, deciding to take the male 60-69 section. Peter’s time was 2.41.12. Not to be left out of the loop, Kathy Johnson put the big ones in and was the first female home in the 60-69 age group! Kathy’s time was 4.08.02. A grand effort from our more “experienced” runners! A few local runners took on the challenge of the mountain for the first time this year and finished the course in an upright position, so they’re all quite happy about that. Congratulations go to Michelle Cumming, Sky Martin, Maxine Gernyi and Paula Copley for completing such an arduous race! Will they be back next year? I’d advise asking that question in about a week’s time! Personal bests were achieved all over the place for many Nowra runners; it certainly was a day of great achievements! Lisa Carroll ran like a gazelle to slash about 20 minutes off her previous best time and was the second local female home! Annie Scholfield followed suit and improved on last years’ time by almost 25 minutes! Angela Bond was another improver, her time being 14 minutes faster than her last KOM effort. I’ll have what they’re having! Kangaroo Valley girl Karan Kenny did her local community proud by running a superb race, always a consistent runner. Kevyn Davis impressed the male contingent by taking 9 minutes off last year’s time, as did Steve McCullagh and Scott Martin, both shaving off 8 minutes! Nowra runners are on fire! As per tradition, Navy versed Nowra in a men’s team event, with Nowra being the overall winners. Jeff Rayner, Raimund Winkler and Joshua Newton were the very fit Navy side and Damien Smith, Darrin Smith and Bill Stalhut shone for Nowra. Congratulations must go to all who entered this challenging race, it is an achievement to be proud of. Many thanks from the race organisers go to the sponsors and organisations that supported this year’s King of the Mountain. They include Nowra Toyota, Peter Rose Eyecare Plus Optometrists, Kennedy’s Buses, Shoalhaven Spring Water, Shoalhaven Community Transport, Cambewarra Public School, Kangaroo Valley Public School P&C and local members of the SES and NSW Ambulance Service. Longreach A great day of running was had by competitors across the board on Saturday, improvements happening in every race category. Numbers were down slightly due to many “King” competitors resting up for their big race the following day. Nether the less, it was a fine day of running, with many families making a day of it. Full results of times and placings are available on the informative Nowra Athletic Clubs website and also the South Coast Register Sportsboard. Don’t forget the State Road Relays are being in Wollongong on Saturday. Teams are now selected, however, if you have queries regarding the relays don’t hesitate to contact team captain Peter Dooley 44418739. The event should prove to be a day of great racing and camaraderie. Next Saturday’s cross country will be held at the hilly Timberhills course, McKinnon’s Farm on Kells Road, Tomerong. Registration will be from 2pm with the first events (1km and 2km) starting at 2.30pm. For further enquiries, contact club secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or come along on Saturday, as it is always nice to see a new face. In other news, Nowra Athletics club runner Alex Pikethly has been running with gusto this season, achieving a personal best time of 43.51 in the 12km open men’s event of the recent State Cross Country Championships. He ran 11th overall in this field of highly competitive runners and was the first local male home. Fantastic result yet again, well done. Lastly, the Nowra Athletics Club website is available for viewing for comprehensive information regarding competitions, results, any cancellations and upcoming events.
|
|
|
STATE CROSS COUNTRY
CLASSIC - A CHAMPION OF A DAY! Willandra cross country track was where all the action was on Saturday as Nowra Athletics Club played host to the NSW State Cross Country Championships. And a champion of a day it was! The weather was perfect and the course was at its absolute finest for a great day of competition! The club results were positively awesome! Across the board medals were won in various individual age groups and teams, and personal bests were also achieved from many runners. What was great to note were the new members who ran the race for the first time and did extremely well, I might add! Congratulations everyone! Of course, the day wouldn’t have run as smoothly as it did without the colossal effort put in by all the volunteers. From parking cars, officiating entries, being course marshals, working in the canteen serving all the yummy cakes and slices kindly donated, being photographers, you name it, the club members did it and a fantastic job they did too! In my books you are all medal winners! 2km In the under 12 girls event, the Nowra team of Shenay Edwards, Layne Jones, Jade Mustapic and Sophie Edwards took out the silver medal. Shenay Edwards also doubled up by receiving the individual bronze medal for country. Hugh Dobson, Kye Jones, Mitchell Stalhut and Alistair Clarke were also silver medal recipients in the Boys under 12 race, with Hugh also winning the individual silver for country. 3km The under 14 boys event saw Nowra once again score a team silver medal. Jye Edwards, Jed Frank, Angus Pryde and Oscar Edwards were the proud team members! Jye Edwards also took the accolades for the individual country bronze. A great effort put in by all our younger runners, they consistently come up with the goods, especially when running against the strong and competitive Kembla joggers. Well done everyone! 4km In the under 18 girls race Michaela Quinn put in an absolute stellar effort to blitz the field and win both the State gold medal and the country gold! The second placegetter was a massive 30 seconds behind her! Fantastic result due to all the consistent training Michaela has put in. 6km Jill Smith had a wonderful day of running, being our 2nd winner of state gold on Saturday, for her event, the 60-64 women’s age group. She has defended this title for the last few years now and I don’t think she is ready to give it away just yet! Consequently, she also received country gold and teamed up with Maureen Cox, Eva Moeller-Duhme, and Helen Redenbach to take silver for the over 55 women’s teams event. Maureen Cox and Eva Moeller-Duhme also doubled up to take state and country silver and bronze consequently for the 60 -64 age group. They may be older but certainly not out, as these results prove! 8km Christine Suffolk, Karen Jones, Rebecca Eastment and Kim Dobson ran well as a team to receive a silver medal in the women’s over 35 team event. Rebecca also received the individual country gold medal for the 35-39 age group, with Kim taking silver and Michelle Cumming country bronze. In the 40-44 age group, Chrissie Suffolk succeeded in winning the state and country individual silver and Karen Jones claimed the country bronze. In the over 45 women’s team event, Anne-Maree Frank, Jill Tuckerman, Maxine Gernyi and Alison Havadjia were the proud winners of a gold medal. Anne-Maree Frank double-dipped to take the individual country bronze for the 45-49 age group and Maxine Gernyi followed suit to win the individual country bronze for the 50-54 age group. 12km Bill Broughton, Robert Pickard, Milton Cox and Eric Moeller-Duhme were the bronze medal winners of the over 55 men’s team event. Bill also received the individual country gold medal for the 55-59 age group and Ed Egan grabbed the silver. In the individual 60-64 age group, Robert Pickard was happy to receive the country silver, standing next to his teammate Milton Cox who received country bronze. Once again, bronze was the medal of choice for the over 35 men’s team of Damien Smith, Darrin Smith, Scott Martin and Ashley Hale. Darrin, Scott and Ashley made a trifecta of the country individuals, taking gold silver and bronze respectively in the men's 35-39 age group. Damian Smith liked the idea of a second medal as well so he took home the individual Country bronze for the 40-44 age group. Lastly but by no means least, the over 45 men’s team received, you guessed it, the bronze medal. Bill Stahlhut, Graham Pepper, Darren Morris and Matt Brennan were the line-up. Individual country bronze went to Darrin Morris for his age group, the 45-49 men’s, with Bill and Graham taking country silver and bronze respectfully for the men’s individual 50-54 age group. So, what is next? Can there possibly be more, you ask? Of course there is. Next Saturday’s cross country will be held at the Longreach course, this being round 13 of the Nowra Toyota Winter Point score. On Sunday July 3rd, the endurance race of the Shoalhaven, the King of The Mountain will be held. Further into July sees the State Road Relays which are held at Wollongong on July 9. So, keep those shoelaces tightened as there will be no resting on your laurels for the next few weeks. Until then, “carry on”. Comprehensive information regarding cancellations due to weather, results and upcoming events are available at this Nowra Athletics Website.
|
|
|
Cross Country Report Willandra Cross Country Classic is on Saturday June 25th 2011 The “signature” event, the Country Classic Cross Country Gala and State Championships will be held at the beautiful Willandra course this Saturday, June 25th. Club members please note that the first event starts at 12:15pm, which is earlier than the usual 2:30pm start. Make sure you are aware of the time of your event which is available on the club programme. Due to the usage of timing chips, it is imperative that all runners arrive well before their event so chips can be issued and tied onto shoelaces. Runners in championship events must be registered and in club uniform, which includes black shorts/tights. There are also altogether fun runs to enter, with the choices of 1km, 2km and 4km for which timing chips will not be required. If the recent excellent running at Willandra is anything to go by, Saturday should see some success amongst our competitors, especially being run on our home track. Put your best foot forward everyone and good luck! Many volunteers always make for light work, so if you can, please help out on Saturday at this fantastic event. Rod Gibb is the man to call, 4446 0226, please don’t hesitate to give him a ring, your efforts will be much appreciated! Lashings of rain during the earlier part of the week resulted in round 11 of the Nowra Toyota Winter Cross Country Point Score being held at Longreach instead of the scheduled hilly Timber hills course. Due to continually inclement weather, please remember to check the Nowra Athletics Club website for up to date information regarding where the next round of cross country will be held. A large number of keen runners tackled the Longreach course on Saturday with much enthusiasm despite the windy fresh conditions. For the fourth time this season, a sealed handicap was held, which always makes for some exciting competition amongst the challengers, pushing each other to run that little bit harder! Each week sees competitors putting a big effort in and Saturday was no exception, great to see everyone! Full listings of results can be accessed on the Nowra Athletics Club website as well as the Sports Scoreboard in the South Coast Register. For further enquiries, contact club secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226. Otherwise, looking forward to seeing everyone on Saturday, I know you will all make a great day of it and will give it your best shot! Comprehensive information regarding cancellations due to weather, competitions, results and upcoming events are available on this Nowra Athletics Website. Finally, I will leave you with these inspirational words from the great Australian running coach Percy Cerutty. Run hard, be strong, think big!
|
|
|
Cross Country –
Willandra Round 10 of the Nowra Toyota Winter Cross Country Point Score was held at the scenic albeit demanding Willandra course. Although the weather has been “Jack Frost” like of late, Saturday afternoon provided comfortable running conditions with virtually no wind in sight. Everyone enjoyed a tremendous day of running, a great way to start their long weekend. Divisional results are available for viewing on the Nowra Athletics Website and also the South Coast Register Sports Board. The Willandra course was lightning fast and many Club members ran their fastest time on this course for some time. The Long course runners were most notable with some amazing improvements particularly in Division 2. Tracey Pratt 4 minutes faster, Ed Egan 3.30, Kevyn Davis 3.30, Cathy Head 3.40, Sky Martin and Lisa Carroll 2 minutes. In Division 1 Alex Pitkethly was 2 minutes faster, Bradley Sawyers 2.30, Rebecca Eastment 2.30 and Darren Morris 2.30. Others ran up to their normal high standard and while no obvious improvement was recorded it is clear that some great performances will be put up at the State Championships. Not to be outdone the young folk got in on the act. Harry McGill was a clear winner of 3k Division 1 with a time over a minute faster than his best. He was pursued home by the back markers who were at their usual speedy best. Even some of the 2k runners seemed to get air borne. Luke Vucic and James Phillips were a minute faster. Also faster were Rhys Burinaga and Hunter Lord 50 seconds, Kyra McKinnon 40 seconds and Alec Dobson 30 seconds. Just over one week until the “signature” event of Willandra will be held. The “Country Classic” Cross Country Gala and State Championships, which is now in its 21st year, will be held on June 25th. This fantastic event caters for ages from under 9 years to over 70 years, and we encourage all members to “have a go”. If you wish to compete in the State Championships, please let club secretary Jan Gibb (4446 0226) know ASAP so registration arrangements can be made. A club singlet worn with black shorts or similar will be required to compete. There is also an Altogether Fun Run to enter if you’re uncertain about competing in state championship events . You have the choice of running 1k, 2k or 4k. Volunteers are always needed to help this event run like clockwork, so if you can spare an hour or two, please don’t hesitate to contact Rod Gibb on 4446 0226. Alternatively, on Saturday, you can speak to one of the club committee members. This Saturdays cross country will be held at Longreach Road. Timber hills course is too wet to run on. Registration and administration will be from 2pm, with first events (1km and 2km) starting at 2.30pm. For further enquiries, contact club secretary Jan Gibb on 4446 0226 or come along on Saturday, it will be great to see you there! Comprehensive information regarding competitions, results and upcoming events are available on this Website. Finally, in the words of the great Sir Winston Churchill, never, ever, ever give up.
|
|
|
Cross
Country – Longreach Brisk, cold conditions had everyone rubbing their hands and teeth chattering in an effort to keep warm at round 9 of the Nowra Toyota Cross Country Winter Point Score on Saturday. However, running with gusto on the mixed terrain track of Longreach had the competitors toasty and warm soon enough, with most improving considerably this week. Full results of times and placings for each division are available on this website (Click Current Results) and also the South Coast Register sports scoreboard. Just a reminder, the Willandra “Country Classic” Cross Country Gala and State Championships will be held on Saturday June 25th. This fantastic event is now in its 21st year, and caters for all ages from under 9 years to over 70 years. We encourage club members to have a go, or if you’re unsure about competing, there is a fun run to enter as well. If you wish to run in one of the events please let club Secretary Jan Gibb (4446 0226) know ASAP so registration requirements can be made. A club singlet worn with black shorts or similar will be required to compete. We will also need the assistance of volunteers on the day to help this event run like a well-oiled machine, so if you can spare an hour so of your time, please let Rod Gibb know on 4460226 or speak to one of the clubs committee members at this Saturdays cross country. Picturesque Willandra, on Browns Mountain Rd Cambewarra, is the venue of choice for cross country runners on Saturday. Registration and administration will be from 2pm with the first events (1km and 2km) starting at 2 30pm. For further enquiries, contact club secretary Jan Gibb on 44460226 or come along on Saturday, as it is always nice to see a new face. Lastly, but not least, this website is available for viewing for comprehensive information regarding competitions, results and upcoming events.
|
|
|
State Cross
Country Relays A large number of keen and enthusiastic Nowra Athletics Club runners competed at the State Cross Country Relays at Miranda on Saturday. Everyone looked wonderful in their gold, black and white, and the spirit and support amongst all the team members was absolutely fantastic to see and something to be proud of. The weather couldn’t have been better at Miranda, and there was hardly any mud in sight, very unusual for this deceptively challenging course. Still, the track wasn’t easy, but our runners did their best, with many achieving personal bests. Well done everyone! Despite only having two teams placing in the 'top' three at the Championships, Nowra club members certainly put in a great effort all round, from our youngest under 12 teams to our 55 & beyond team! The under 14 boys’ 'A' team, consisting of Jye Edwards, Angus Pryde, Jed Frank & Oscar Edwards had a great battle throughout the entire event and were the second team to cross the finish, taking out the Silver Medal. Likewise our U/18 girl’s team of Michaela Quinn, Rose Vucic, Tori & Casey Jones, were awarded the Silver Medal after a good battle with four girls from the Wyong Club. All Team results and individual splits will be available for viewing shortly on the Athletics NSW website. Our senior runners gave it everything they’ve got, one in particular being Bill Stahlhut. Not only did he compete in the men’s over 35 and over 45 divisions, he also attempted, (mistakenly), to run the first leg of the over 55’s! What a legend, makes me tired just thinking about it! The next major State Event will be the NSW Cross Country Championships which will be held on June 25th at the picturesque Willandra course. Members wishing to compete in any of the Championship events (from U/12 to 70+yrs) will require a current Registration Number. If you have not yet requested this, please contact Jan Gibb ASAP. Round 8 of the Nowra Toyota winter Point Score was business as usual at the scenic but hilly Timberhills course at Tomerong on Saturday. Like Miranda, the weather was just glorious for the many cross country runners and families that made an afternoon of it. A great day of running was had by all, with many improving their times from previous weeks. Good job, everyone! A full listing of results for each division will be available on the Nowra Athletics Website and also the sports scoreboard of the South Coast Register. Many of our members will be competing at the Combined Regional Primary & Secondary Schools Cross Country at Willandra on Friday, 3rd June. We congratulate all for gaining selection to compete at this level and wish them 'Good Luck. This Saturday’s Cross Country running will be held at the Longreach course, Longreach Road, With the Winter Pointscore approaching Round 9, club officials require all membership fees to be settled. Competitors who are not financial, unfortunately will not be permitted to compete. For any enquiries at all, contact club secretary, Jan Gibb on 4446 0226. For comprehensive information about the Nowra Athletics Club competitions, results and events, visit this informative Nowra Athletics Club website.
|
|
|
CROSS COUNTRY –
LONGREACH
|
|
|
CROSS COUNTRY – TIMBERHILLS
In the 1km event, keen runners Keely Nicholls, Lily Watkins and Jack Taylor took the accolades for first, second and third positions. Great running everyone, well done! Division 1 of the 2km race saw Rhys Burinaga, Hunter Lord and Alec Dobson seal the deal for the top three places. Interestingly, they were all off the same handicap, well done Mr Handicapper! Division 1B was taken out nicely by Anabelle Dallas, followed by backmarker Ethan Havadjia, with Kieran Harrison coming in for third. Jasper Leung, Alison Taylor and Erin Martin did some fine running in division 2, resulting in placing in the top three spots. In division 1 of the 3km event, consistent runner Jed Frank took out 1st place, with Amber Grainger and Jenson Barker putting a big effort in for 2nd and 3rd. Liam Dooley from division 2 was on fire and came in well ahead of Toni Mudditt and Kaityn Hush, who both showed some good form. In division 3, the top 3 positions were taken by an all-female line-up of Debbie Clarke, Courtney Harrison and Louise Marr. Now that’s a challenge for the guys out there! Those running gazelles, Steve McKinnon and Michaela Quinn were neck and neck for the top two positions in Division 1 of the medium course, with Steve just ahead to grab the honours, some exciting running indeed. Joel Lord ran well to seal the 3rd spot. In division 2,” corner cutter” Deano Bryce came in first with husband and wife team, Angela and Gavin Urquhart taking out 2nd and 3rd consecutively. Division 3 of the medium course saw some fine running from Paul Coombes, Briony Toms and Colleen Stahlhut to take the top 3 spots. James Coyte, Glen Mustapic and Richard Bosdyk were the best of a good bunch in division 1 of the challenging long course. While Renae Watkins was 1st in division 2, followed by Sandra Coyte for 2nd and evergreen Ed Egan for 3rd. Great running everyone. Congratulations all round must go out to club runners Annie Schofield, Michelle Cumming and Kathy Johnson. On Sunday May 15, all three competed in the challenging Sydney Half Marathon and are very happy with their results. A great day was had by all, you can’t ask for more than that! Well done, girls! Just a reminder, the NSW (short course) Cross Country Relay Championships are being held on May 28th at Miranda, Sydney. This is a great event to be involved in, with lots of camaraderie and sporting spirit, and, if last year’s efforts are anything to go by, lots of mud! Anyone who is interested in being part of a relay team should contact Club Secretary Jan Gibb (446 0226) so administration arrangements can be made. This Saturday’s cross country running will be at the Longreach Course, Longreach Rd, Longreach. Registration and administration will be from around 2pm, with the first events, (1km and 2km) starting at 2.30pm. New members are always welcome at the family friendly Nowra Athletics Club. For further enquiries, contact club secretary Jan Gibb on 4446 0226 or simply turn up on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there! For comprehensive information about the Nowra Athletic Club’s competitions, results and upcoming events, visit the web site.
|
|
|
Cross Country Report McCAFFREY CHALLENGE - WHAT A DAY!! The first leg of the annual McCaffrey Challenge Shield cross country match between Nowra Athletics club and the Kembla Joggers club was amazing. A large contingent from the Joggers descended on the Willandra course ready for the battle. The car park rapidly filled up with the first 98 cars bringing the Joggers team, the next two had nothing to do with the running they just followed the stream of cars to see where it was going. Nearly 400 runners took to the various courses and this was an amazing site. The late Frank McCaffrey whom the challenge honours would be very pleased indeed. Kembla Joggers are the State Winter Champions and Nowra Club members got an idea of why this so. In the five matches the Joggers were victors in four and the hosts took out one. This one victory was in the 4k event and was very close. The Joggers won the 8k, 3k and 2k comfortably, the 1k was a close one. The overall placings of the Club runners was great, it was the depth of the Joggers talent that carried the day. In the 8k Alex Pitkethly was 2nd, Damien Smith 4th, Darrin Smith 9th, Scott Martin 10th, Graeme Pepper 15th and Steve McCullagh 19th. That was 6 in the top 20 the other 14 were of course Kembla Joggers and that depth makes the difference. In the 4k Aaron Spiessberger won outright, first lady home Michaela Quinn 3rd and Tim O’Shae 5th. What tremendous running from these three flyers. In the 3k Jye Edwards chased the top three Joggers all the way in a courageous effort but could not get them, he ended up 5th just pipped by the old guy Peter Dooley in 4th.Angus Pryde 7th and Jenson Barker 8th were in the top ten, Oscar Edwards 11th, Hugh Dobson 13th and Shenay Edwards 14th in a great run. In the 2k Kye Jones, Jade Mustapic and Alistair Clark managed to get in the top 10 but here the depth of the Joggers young guns really told. The 1k was a lot closer with Jovan Croese in the top ten closely followed by Keely Nichols, Hayden Batson and Boyd Schreiber. In all a great day of inter club rivalry and fellowship. The return match is a way off yet on August 6th at the Joggers home track at Dapto. Note this date. There is a lot of running to take place from now till August 6 and Club members should note that the State cross country relays will be held at Miranda on Saturday May 28. Club teams will be selected from those who indicated, on their membership forms, that wish to compete in State events. Others who are undecided should advise Club Officials no later that Saturday next May 14 or contact the Club secretary 44460226. Because Round 5 of the winter pointscore was run in conjunction with the McCaffrey Challenge handicaps were sealed and the results appearing on this website and in today's edition of the South Coast Register show the adjusted placings. Next Saturday Timberhills Tomerong is the venue for Round 6 of the Nowra Toyota winter pointscore New members are always welcome at the Nowra Athletics Club. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 4446 0226 or simply come along on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there! For comprehensive information about the Nowra Athletics Club’s competitions, results and upcoming events visit this website.
|
|
|
Cross Country Report Round 4 of the Nowra Athletics Club Nowra Toyota winter pointscore was run at Longreach last Saturday and generally backmarkers had a good day. In most events those who gave away time at the start worked very hard through their race and made up the time to finish well up in the field. It was good to welcome new
runners and it is timely to remind newcomers and some old hands that
the administration has to be completed. Forms are available for
members at the admin tent so the paperwork has to be done. The first leg of the McCaffrey Shield match against the strong Kembla Joggers club will be incorporated in Round 5 of the winter pointscore at Willandra on Saturday. Events will be sealed handicap and club members will run in their usual events and will have many of the KJs in the race with them. A pointscore for both Clubs is calculated after each race and later in the season we visit Dapto for a return match at KJs home track. A big rollup is needed to battle with our northern friends. Club members are requested to bring along a plate for afternoon tea after the battle subsides. The the Awards and Presentations for 2010-11 was held at Illaroo Road Public School last Saturday night. A report will be available shortly - click the " Presentations " button. New members are always welcome at the Nowra Athletics Club. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 4446 0226 or simply come along on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there! For comprehensive information about the Nowra Athletics Club’s competitions, results and upcoming events visit this website.
|
|
|
Cross Country Report Cross country runners had another opportunity to run at the beautiful Willandra course on Saturday afternoon. The cool conditions made it perfect for fast running. |
|
|
With the
competition in its third week most runners are a lot more focussed
on doing well and it certainly showed on the weekend. Almost every
runner in all divisions improved their racing times, in some cases
by several minutes. This Saturday’s cross country running will see the Club return to the Timberhills course at Tomerong. For those who’ve never been there before - get ready for a “back to nature” running experience. There’s some open field running, densely wooded sections, creek crossings and one or two hills. To find Timberhills on Saturday, 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 2.00pm to 2.15pm with
the first event (1km) starting at around 2.30pm. New runners or
members should ensure that any registration or administration
requirements are attended to before 2.15pm. All club members are reminded that the Nowra Athletics Club’s AGM and Presentation evening will be held on Saturday April 30th at Illaroo Road Public School, North Nowra starting at 7.30pm. |
|
|
Any interested members wishing to assist and promote the Club further are invited to nominate for the management committee. For nomination forms and further information please contact Club Secretary Jan Gibb on Saturday or by telephone on 4446 0226. On the Athletics front, Lauren Johnston and Alex Pitkethly performed extremely well at the Australian Track and Field Championships held in Melbourne last week. Lauren who is our Club’s top women’s sprinter, won her heat to qualify for the Final where she finished in sixth place. Alex competed in the Men’s Steeplechase event and finished in a very credible ninth position. Congratulations and well done! New members are always welcome at the Nowra Athletics Club. For further enquiries contact club Secretary Jan Gibb on 4446 0226 or simply come along on Saturday. Looking forward to seeing you there! For comprehensive information about the Nowra Athletics Club’s competitions, results and upcoming events visit this website. |
|
|
Cross Country Opener Cross country runners had it all on Saturday at the start of the Nowra Athletics Club 2011 winter competition. Fabulous weather and immaculately prepared courses combined superbly to make the afternoon a winner. |
|
|
Above: Runners Courtney Harrison and Colleen Stalhut enjoying the start of the Nowra Athletics Club 2011 Cross Country season on Saturday |
Above: Darren Morris shows them how to attack "Heartbreak Hill" in the Long Course race at Willandra on Saturday |
|
Plenty of new runners joined the Club on Saturday - families, couples and a few singles too. They all heard the good news about cross country running and how it changes peoples’ lives – always for the better! Club President Kevyn Davis gave a great welcoming speech and invited every runner to enjoy the season opener. It was good to see so many of the Club’s regulars return for another year. As usual the older you get the more you realise what you’ve been missing between competitions. The two most popular events on Saturday were the 1km and 2km races. Newcomers to cross country running always find things a little easier and more enjoyable if they start off their season in one these events. New runners usually like to work up to the 3km or medium course races as the season progresses. Many attempt the longer course events in the years that follow. All in all another fantastic cross country running experience. This Saturday’s Cross Country running will again be at the Willandra course, Brown’s Mountain Road, Tapitallee. The 2011 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 2.00pm with the first event starting at around 2.30pm. New members are always welcome please check the Club website for information and results. Further enquiries can be made by contacting club Secretary Jan Gibb on 4446 0226 or simply by coming along on Saturday. |
|
|
2011 Cross Country Begins Nowra Athletics Club’s winter Cross Country Competition for 2011 is up and running from this Saturday and everyone’s invited! On Saturday, follow the signs to Willandra, Brown’s Mountain Road, Tapitalee. Registration and administration will be from 1.30 pm, the first event a 1km race, will start at 2.30 pm. |
|
|
|
Bring your family, bring your friends and see some of Australia’s best Cross Country courses. Relax in the friendly surrounds where everyone has the opportunity to be part of a great sport no matter what their level of fitness or athletic ability. The winter Cross Country Competition is conducted each week (from early April through to late August) at one of three courses - Willandra, Timberhills or Longreach The competition features three shorter distance events of 1, 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 gives all athletes the opportunity to compete equally whilst enjoying the cross country experience. The Willandra course has testing tracks and 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 rainforest like wooded sections, creeks and open field running. At Longreach runners are treated to varying conditions with fast flat sections, bushy areas and one or two hills for the longer course runners. As mentioned this Saturday’s Cross Country running will be at the Willandra course, Brown’s Mountain Road, Tapitalee. 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! In other Athletics news, the Nowra Athletics Club’s AGM and Presentation evening will be held on Saturday April 30th at Illaroo Road Public School, North Nowra starting at 7.45 pm. For more information on results and upcoming events please visit this website.
|
|
