The first leg of the McCaffery Challenge played out on the picturesque hills of Willandra last Saturday. Nowra Athletics warmly welcomed Kembla Joggers and some visitors from Wollongong & IBS athletic Clubs, supplying a balmy, clear afternoon in our usual laid back style. The Course was in excellent condition and thanks must go out to the Gibb family for all their effort in preparing such an outstanding cross country track.
There were over 400 runners competing, all hoping their performance would be enough to tip the balance of the first round in their Clubs favour. On this occasion, Kembla Joggers just beat us over the line and took out the 2, 3, 4 and 6 k runs. Nowra were able to redeem themselves by placing ahead of KJ’s in the 8k (long course). This year saw the first running of a 6km event and it was a popular distance so hopefully it will be offered again in the return leg at Dapto later this year.
Willandra offers some tough conditions, but there were some big “personal best” times recorded as competitors put that little bit more effort in for their Club.
An abundant afternoon tea was laid out for all to share. There was definitely no lack of food thanks to all the club members who brought along a plate to share and it all seemed to run smoothly thanks once again to our dedicated volunteers (without whom we wouldn’t be able to run every week).
Next Saturday many Club members will be competing at Miranda in Athletics NSW State Cross Country Relay Championships. Teams are being finalized, however If you are unsure of your place in a team, please contact Melinda Mustapic on M 0431051201 as soon as possible.
For those of you not running at Miranda, there will be a non point score run out at Tomerong. The starting times won’t run to the normal schedule so be there around 2.30pm so you don’t miss out.
During this week a large number of school students will be competing in State & Regional School Cross Country Carnivals being held at Willandra & Eastern Creek.
On behalf of the club we hope you will all enjoy the competition and have a great run.