Doing the double...

UP – at a higher level, rising above, upright.

The Flagpole ‘Run Up’ took place this Saturdays and I have to admit I did find myself at a higher level (approx. 1000m in 5kms to be exact); I definitely was rising above - the valley – quite rapidly. Upright, hmmm yes I actually managed to do that to – despite higher waters gangs of cheery runners linked together through river crossings.

This event is in its 4th year and with record numbers showing up to race it’s proving its popularity. In past years the course has been 19km however at the race briefing they mentioned it was now a 21km course – it then dawned on me – excellent I’m about to do my first ever half marathon!

The route itself takes you along just under a 1km on a flat 4WD track and then the ascent starts. Once broken through the tree line the front competitors were visible – just – looking like little ants carving up the side of the hill. The view from the trig at the Summit was worth the hard slog, however no time to drag ones heels as you soon find yourself set off and a thrilling downhill ensues.

After my experience getting lost (I know I know) in Frostbuster I was nervous about this run – however there was no need. Chris Cox and his team had superbly managed this route and which lead to a relaxed and enjoyable run.

To add into the mix walkers had left an hour earlier so as you progressed through the course you are intertwined with these folk, so always someone around to exchange pleasantries with. Getting across the finish line I felt a great sense of achievement and in 2 hours 44 mins! I would highly recommend this as an event for your calendars next year – even if you’re not keen on the run there is of course the walk option – the scenery is magnificent and it possesses an atmosphere to match.

On the back of Saturdays run the Down River Kayak Club held its second race of the Spring Series – Horseshoe Bend through to Gorge Bridge [above is the start of the mens race].


Again we were very lucky with both the river and weather conditions. Having gotten everyone to meet at the bridge we loaded up trailers and proceed in true convoy fashion to our put in. It really did feel like a club trip, a group of like minded people wanting to have a good time.

[A few laughs in the face of competition - the Gurney/Huntsman Showdown]

[Ian Huntsman in winning form - for both the slalom and the down river race]

Unexpectedly however the highlight of the day must have been the slalom course set up at the finish. A ‘seemingly’ basic course set to pit your skills against the river – and oh - all of us watching from the side lines. This provided a lot of entertainment for us river bank huggers and the grand finale came down to the paddle off between Ian Huntsman and Steve Gurney….just brilliant. Also a great opportunity to for us to see these guys in action, up close…usually Ian paddles past me so fast I swear he has a outboard motor attached!

[Ian flying....hmmm is there a engine at the back there! : ) ]

So all in all a fab weekend and a really good step up for my journey to Coast. Next week Conquering the Crater Rim!

Keep ya posted!