By Jamie Strudley
YARRA RANGES ATHLETICS
The sub-zero temperatures didn’t deter the hardy athletes from Yarra Ranges Athletics as they gathered for the annual Cross Country Handicap Day.
With results from the season blended in the secret formula to give athletes their start time, the handicappers’ goal was to create a close finish for each event.
The day began with frost still coating the hills of Margaret Lewis Reserve in Coldstream, and the first runners in the 500m race had the pleasure of leaving their footprints behind.
The girls filled the early finishing spots, with several PBs, allowing the front-markers to collect the medals.
Congratulations to Lily, Madalyn and Madeline.
In the boys’ race, Harlem finished clear of David in a sprint finish ahead of Tobyn, for the minor placings.
Over 1000m in the second race, Patrick lead all the way, running easily his best time for the season.
Tahlah also ran a strong race to win the girls event.
Samuel and Blake took home silver and bronze for the boys.
Violeta and Zoe took home silver and bronze in the girls race.
It was raining PBs over the 1500m distance, six of the first seven finishers all achieving a new best performance at this venue.
Ari’s 22-second improvement allowed him to hold off Tyson in a sprint for the boy’s gold medal.
Luke was not far behind for a well earned bronze.
The smiling Tahlia paced herself well to ensure no one caught her to lead the girls.
Tiara and Sasha’s PB performances helped ensure they took home a medal each.
The club thanks all helpers for their efforts.
Next week athletes are competing as a club at the Sandown Road Relays.
With events for all ages from nine up to masters, the club is looking forward to a fun day of road running as a club at Athletics Victoria and LAV events.
There will still be a round of of Saturday morning cross country on Saturday 8 July at Morrison Reserve for those not competing at Sandown.
