What a wonderful afternoon of cross country running and community gathering at Hollyhill on Saturday 2nd May. After two wet winters had frustrated any efforts to run on Hollyhill since 2023, absolutely perfect weather greeted a strong roll-up of more than 50 runners, who embraced the challenge of the hilly yet scenic course. It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the autumn sunshine and staying on for the relaxed, post-run BBQ.
Our generous hosts, Alison and Andrew Havadjia, welcomed Nowra Athletics Club back to their beautiful family property, supplying the meat for a delicious celebration BBQ. The club and families contributed salads and sweets, (Lisa’s apple slice was a standout) to create a feast fit for hungry runners. The relaxed and conversational atmosphere summed up the afternoon perfectly, with one runner noting the “great vibes” that make our club so special.
A big thank you to our hardworking committee for organising the day, and to the Havadjia family for their incredible hospitality and ongoing support of our cross country program.
Out on the course, the 1km event was a true family affair, with the Sturgiss trio and the Giumelli family well represented. Luca Sturgiss took first place, followed by Ayla Parmenter and Olive Sturgiss. Sophie Giumelli finished fourth, ahead of Patrick Giumelli, with Hayes Sturgiss rounding out the field.
The 2km event saw twelve competitors take part, with Piper Browne leading home a family podium ahead of sister Hallie and dad Joel. Lhiam Crook followed, with Henry Giumelli and Lani Parmenter next. Maggie Vaughan, Maddi Wills, Hamish Bennett, Ellie Cooper, Sally Browne and Hollie Giumelli completed the field.
In the 3km event, Geoff Crook was the winner in 20.03. Jaxon Keogh placed second in 21.14, with Winter Bell, on her first run back this season, finishing third in 26.25. Jack Kinsele was fourth in 17.56, followed by Charli Keogh (24.37) and Andrew Heffill (24.37). Declan Bennett finished seventh, recording the fastest time of the day in 16.39, closely followed by Will Heffill in 16.59. The remainder of the field finished as follows: Ben Emmerton (21.47), Mitch Emmerton (20.34), Jacob Wilson (21.05), Steve McCullagh (17.59), Alex Emmerton (21.34) and Malachy Martin (27.48).
Nineteen runners lined up for the medium course, with Sky Martin taking the win in 32:01. Sam Keogh finished second, with Eva Moeller-Duhme in third. Over 5km, the fastest time was a close contest between Leith Babian and Scott Armstrong, with Leith taking the honours in 19:36, just ahead of Scott in 19:47. Cathleen Chang was the fastest female, finishing strongly in 27:44.
The long course featured three determined competitors, with Scott Martin claiming the win in 40.48 followed by Marty Bell (57.17) and Jeremy Jones (48.53).
Next week we return to our home course at UOW. We look forward to seeing everyone there.