Eighty-year-old Corrie De Groot received a standing ovation from spectators after running the 10-kilometre course in 67.42 minutes.By Sue Slusarek,
WARBURTON’S 5th Annual Up and Running event was held on Sunday 2 March, attracting some keen competition.
First prize winners in the 10km run were, Mark Tucker with a time of 31.22, first female was Anna Thompson with 33.57.
Both of these top athletes took home $500 cash, a weekend luxury accommodation package, and vouchers.
Second place-getters were Ben Toomey with 31.51, and Bronwyn Cardy 38.12.
Third over the line was Jay Phillpotts 33.25 and Tracy Austin 38.18. Along with the major prizes, many spot prizes were drawn for competitors, including accommodation packages, gym memberships, show bags and vouchers.
The 5km Fun Run was won by Adrian McGregor with a time of 14.54.
First female was Melissa Duncan with 17.13. Second place was Craig Appleby 15.22 and Annika Wilson 18.10 and third was David Bailey 16.11 and Skye Mullins 18.36.
The day offered a few surprises when 11-year-old Kane Thompson finished overall 13th place in the 5km run with a time of 20.22.
Then Corrie De Groot, 80 years of age, ran a time of 67.42 in the 10km run.
These two competitors received a standing ovation from the large spectator group.
While all the main events were continuing, the centre of the oval was in fine voice for the kids events.
The fun started with Millwarra taking out the School Shield Relay race for the third year. Then open races were held for all age groups inviting the city kids to join in the fun.
The organisers of Up and Running, Warburton Advancement League, are delighted with the ever increasing number of elite runners the event is attracting, and the community spirit with kids and parents joining in to make the event a real fun day.
