TEN years ago Fitzroy Falls hosted its first marathon event. There were plenty of non-believers. Why would anyone want to run a marathon in such tough (if beautiful) terrain?
Lots of hills, some of it rocky and even a water crossing.
Well, the non-believers were wrong and now the 10th marathon is about to be run.
Next Saturday, October 10, some outstanding athletes are headed to Fitzroy Falls for the annual race.
Alex Matthews, winner of this year’s 35km Bilpin race and third in the 45km Six Foot Track; Donna Richards who completed the gruelling Ironman in Busselton, Western Australia; Jess Barker who ran the Adelaide Marathon in just over three hours; Tim Ashby, second in the 2007 Fitzroy Falls; Beth Cardelli and the amazing Bob Fickel who is lining up for his 196th marathon.
Three runners, Vic Anderson, Mick Corlis and Dave Hromow, will be there for their 10th consecutive Fitzroy Falls.
But October 10 at Fitzroy Falls is not just about the marathon.
In 2003, a 10km event was introduced and the following year 5km for both runners and walkers was added.
All the races are on bush trails in beautiful country.
Entries are set to break last year’s numbers, with all ages from five to 63 already signed up in the 5km race alone.
The day starts at the lovely Twin Falls Bush Cabins, owned by the McGee family, off Throsby Rd, Fitzroy Falls.
All proceeds go to local volunteer bush fire brigades and St John’s Ambulance.
There is a huge flavour of both country and friendship, with prize winners receiving not only cash awards from the event sponsor MF Global - with record breakers able to double the money they can receive - but also waratahs and duck eggs.
Runners will be sent off by Wingecarribee Shire Mayor Duncan Gair.
For more details see www.fitzroyfallsmarathon.com or call Max Powditch on 4883 6586.