2001 Results Archive

Results, Photo Albums and Race Reports from 2001 Events

=Results available as PDF (you will need Adobe Reader)

=Results available as document

Date	City	Event	Race Report	Results	Photo Album
January 2001

February 2001

March 2001
25 March	Geelong	Sri Chinmoy Geelong Triathlon Festival
April 2001

May 2001
20 May	Melbourne	Sri Chinmoy Running & Fitness Festival
June 2001

July 2001

August 2001

September 2001

October 2001

November 2001

December 2001

Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team articles - more articles

Leg 3: Kirkpatrick St, Weston (next to RSPCA) to Cnr Majura & Phillip Ave, Dickson, 25.7 km

Download the leg 3 gpx file.

The start point for Leg 3 is on the fire trail opposite the end of Kirkpatrick St, Weston, 30m N of the intersection of the dirt road and bike path.

Head N along the road from CP2 and after 110m veer right off the road to follow a dirt path next to a wire fence. This turns to bitumen after 120m. After another 100m make sure that you turn left between the pine trees (just before the path swings right) to head down a rutty single track to a small bridge after 50m. Veer right from the bridge to keep heading right across a larger bridge crossing the Molonglo River.

270m later (at the first 4-way road junction) you will turn left off the road to take a small MTB single track heading uphill into the pines. After 240m you will exit the MTB track and turn left onto a dirt road, which you will follow for 40m to where it merges with another road. Here you will leave the road, turning right to head up the single track that takes you up to the summit of Bold Hill, marked by two yellow posts. Exit the summit at approx. 2 o'clock heading to take a faint single track, which takes you down towards a green smokestack pipe, where you then join a gravel road heading towards the main pine forest. Continue straight ahead on this road for 320m until it brings you to a major 4-way road intersection (about 1.6K elapsed). Continue straight ahead for only 30m at this intersection before you turn left to take a MTB single track heading into the forest. Follow the marker tapes and the MTB track for approx. 800 m as it heads N to NE through the pines, running parallel with Forest Drive before swinging left to the NW to bring you out at Boundary Road (approx. 2.5K elapsed).

Turn right onto Boundary Rd and follow it for only 100m to then turn left through the second gate (wooden) onto the fire trail heading NW. Stay on this major dirt road (which runs parallel to Boundary Rd and winds around the base of the Arboretum) for approximately 2K, following the marking ribbons.

At the end of this road turn right (approx. 5K) at the T-junction to head uphill on the Arboretum Emergency Access Track (green signs), climbing several metal gates along the way.

This brings you out at Boundary Rd (5.7k approx.) where you will continue straight ahead and up the hill towards Telstra Tower in the distance. Pass by the gate at the Works Compound and after 80m head left at the Emergency assembly point sign to follow the fence line. You will now follow this Boundary track which turns left downhill (N) past a Dam (6.4K) and then right (E) to commence a steady climb of about 800m up to the Cnr of Boundary & Himalayan Cedars Rd (7.2K). Turn left at the gate to keep following the dirt road which turns right (E) to head steeply downhill with great views of Lake Burley Griffin in front of you.

At the bottom of the hill turn left at the car park (7.9K) to enter the Cork Oaks Forest path. 60m later bear left onto the main single track which takes you to the entry of the Cork Oaks Plantation where you continue straight ahead on the Bicentennial Trail. At the end of this track (8.7K) turn right onto the path which goes down to the underpass. After 110m turn right at the T-junction to take the bike path heading towards Telstra Tower. After 250m turn left (at Bicentennial Trail sign, about 9K) to leave the bike path and cross the pedestrian stile leading into Aranda Snow Gums Reserve. Follow this single-track walking path for approx. 600m before turning right (9.6K) to cross the watercourse to head straight along a grassy track heading NE for approx. 400m until it brings you up to a gate (approx. 10K) where you will turn right onto the fire trail and continue heading NE on Finneran’s Road. for 600m until you reach a T-junction next to Caswell Drive. Turn right and after only 60m turn left to head under Caswell Drive.

As soon as you pass under the second part of Caswell Drive (approx. 10.8K) make sure that you leave the main fire trail by bearing right to take the single track that shortcuts the corner from Finneran’s Rd across to the Lower Woodland Track.

After just over 100m on the ST turn right to follow the Lower Woodland Track as it heads south back down towards Lake Burley Griffin, running parallel to Caswell Drive for a few kilometres, during which you will encounter the first drinks station before swinging left (E), now called the Upper Woodland Track (12.7K) and climbing gradually for 160m and then swinging left again (N) to climb a very steep short pitch. Continue along this Upper Woodland Track for a few KM, always taking the most upper right hand (uphill) options at the next two forks in the track (at approx. 13.70K and 14.3K), eventually turning right when you hit the intersection with the main Black Mountain Summit walking track (approx. 14.6K). Climb steeply up the track for several hundred metres, heading straight across the Summit Trail, and continue uphill on the cement path, being sure higher up (approx. 15K) to follow it contouring to the left rather than take the dirt track climbing straight ahead to the summit. The cement track heads around the E side of the mountain and climbs up some steps to meet Black Mountain Drive near Telstra Tower (15.2K). Turn left and stick to the LHS of the road for only 70m or so before turning left to take the steps down a ST walking path (enjoy the amazing views of the Lake and Canberra City) for approx. 350m where you will head straight ahead into a car park. Follow the LHS of the car park and at its end, turn left towards the lookout and 30m later turn right to take the single-track heading SE and then E downhill. After approx. 500m distance of steep, rocky descent (16.2k) turn left to take the Botanical Gardens Trail, which undulates along the East side of Black Mountain until it terminates at Frith Rd.

Turn right onto Frith Rd (17K) and head downhill for approx. 300m before turning left at the BNT sign to join and follow the dirt road that climbs up alongside the west side of the electricity substation. Approx. 200m after the substation take care to veer off the road to the right to follow the earth bank, following the BNT single track that runs under the powerlines. After approx. 300m the BNT drops off the embankment to the right to descend to Frith Rd. Cross straight across the road and then turn left (18.1K) to head through the Barry Dr. underpass on the LHS. After exiting the underpass, turn hard left to take the BNT single track heading North. Follow the BNT track all the way through to the roundabout at Fairfax St/Dryandra St where a Course Marshal (2nd drinks station) will aid with crossing (approx.18.9K).

Continue straight across Fairfax St heading N to join a bike path and follow this for 600m up a gentle climb before making sure that you make a hard right turn (19.7K) under the big powerlines to enter the O’Connor Ridge trails.

After about 100m make sure that you take the main track heading off to the left that climbs up to, and runs very close and parallel to Gungahlin Drive, not taking any trail options to your right. Stay on this ST that parallels the road for approx. 400m until it eventually merges with a larger track from your right (20.3K approx.), takes you past the RHS of a small dam, and across some wooden planks. Less than 200m later, take the right, larger single track at the split which heads through the wattle trees and eventually swings further right to run along the RHS of a wire fence. Turn left through the gate (20.9K) and turn right to head E down the dirt road between Ginninderra Drive on your left and the powerlines, which 250m later passes a church and becomes Archibald St. Stay on the grass verge/footpath on the LHS of Archibald St for the next 840m (passing various churches, monasteries and Buddhist Temples) until it dead-ends at a T-junction with Mouat St. Turn right to cross Archibald St (approx. 22K) and join the bike path, being careful after 180m to leave this path, turning left to cross the bitumen dead end and head to the pedestrian crossing/lights at Brigalow St (22.3K; Course Marshal). After crossing continue left on the footpath past the Lyneham Motor Inn and 90 m later turn right (22.5K) onto the bitumen bike path that runs along the RHS of the water canal. Follow this path for approx. 650m before turning left at the end of the playing fields (Follow signs to “Dickson Shops 2K”) to cross the bridge across the canal and join another bike path heading towards Lyneham High School. Take care crossing Goodwin St (23.4K) at the speed hump/ped. crossing. After 50m merge left to take the bike path towards Dickson shops (blue and white sign). Cross De Burgh St at the pedestrian crossing. (23.5K)

Continue straight ahead on the bike path to *** (see note below) cross (over or under) Northbourne Ave (23.7K) at the lights and pedestrian crossing to continue along the bike path to Dickson.

Continue along the bike path for 200m to cross Challis St at the pedestrian crossing and then after another 500m take care to cross Cowper St (24.4K) at the pedestrian crossing at the traffic lights. Continue straight onto the bike path that runs between the canal and the houses and follow (without turns) this for approx. the next 1.3K to finish at the 3rd (final) transition area where the powerlines cross the bike path (telephone pole with red tag 37387) in the grassy area on the west side of Majura Ave (25.7K).

***Likely Scenario 1: Head Under Northbourne Ave

At this point, if the conditions are favourable, you will divert right across the grass to drop into the canal at a metal ladder just before Northbourne Ave (marker cones or arrows) in order to run under the two arms of the very busy Northbourne Ave and then exit the canal to the left at another metal ladder soon after the other side to re-join the bike path.***

Scenario 2: Cross Northbourne Ave at pedestrian crossing lights

If conditions do not favour use of the canal (heavy rain prior to race) you will have to continue straight ahead on the bike path to cross Northbourne Ave (24.22K) at the lights and pedestrian crossing to continue along the bike path to Dickson (24.26K). If this option is in play, note that you must obey the traffic lights when crossing Northbourne Ave!

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Leg 2: end of Waldock St, Mount Taylor to Kirkpatrick St, Weston (next to RSPCA), 27.4 km

Download the leg 2 gpx file.

From the transition at the picnic table above the end of the car park at the end of Waldock St, following the small track along the fenceline parallel with the road, then veer left 45 degrees to a dirt path about 50m short of the gate. Continue straight ahead 80m later to cross Nth Taylor Fire Trail (FT) and head down into the gully on the narrow single track (ST). Cross the West Powerline FT and continue straight ahead (W) down onto the Old Kambah FT. After passing a dam on your right the trail swings left (S) and heads down to pass through a fence. Continue straight across Colquhoun St and follow the dirt track on the LHS of the houses for about 150m before turning left onto a bitumen path which heads under Sulwood Dr.

Immediately after exiting the underpass turn right to follow the bike path between the houses and the road. At the bottom of this descent do not cross the bridge but instead veer left to follow the grassy area into a shallow watercourse (Village Creek) and then turn left to follow the ST between the trees that runs parallel to Drakeford Dr. Turn right at the first footpath you come to head under Drakeford Dr. and upon exiting the tunnel continue straight ahead on the path that heads between the houses, taking care to cross Bacchus Cct and continuing straight until the path ends at Attiwell Cct.

Continue straight to follow the RHS verge of Attiwell Cct for approx. 250m before turning right at the T-jn onto Bacchus Cct and then immediately left into Lunn Pl. At the footpath 20m past the end of Lunn Pl take the faint ST at 10’o clock heading which merges with a footpath which leads up to a bus stop at Kambah Pool Rd.

Cross the road according to the marshal’s instructions and head straight up onto the footpath heading up the hill. After 80m turn right at the fence line to leave the path and head around a gate uphill (N) onto a dirt track. Turn right after approx. 300m (where the track flattens out near the houses) to climb through a wooden gate towards Mt Arawang. Follow the ST for 110m to climb through another wooden gate. Cross over the gravel road here and continue straight ahead to join the new Mt Arawang Summit Trail, which climbs, then contours, then climbs again to take you to the Mt Arawang summit trig. Turn back the way you came, and immediately take the small track that heads steeply downhill to your right, heading towards Cooleman Ridge and Mt Stromlo.

After descending through trees for 380m, continue straight ahead at the 4-way intersection, re-joining the CT along Cooleman Ridge.

Veer right (R) at the fork after 50m, continuing on the CT for another 450m, then turn L at the T-junction with the Guinness Fire Trail (FT), then R again after 90m at the CT sign onto a foot track in front of a water storage tank. You are now heading NW along the ridgeline of Cooleman Ridge. The track dips and after 600mcontinues straight at a 4-way intersection and through an open gate. 170m further on, cross straight over the Darrell Place FT, alongside another larger water storage tank. The CT track rises and veers left at the fork after 170m, through a stand of trees and beyond, with sweeping vistas to the E across the Bullen Range to the Brindabellas, then following a lovely fast trail along the W of the ridgeline through woodland.

The course now departs the CT, turning L (heading downhill) at the 4-way intersection onto the Dam FT (at about 7km elapsed of this leg).

After descending for 300m, climb through the gate and turn R at the Cooleman Ridge Bicentennial National Trail (BNT), heading N. Climb through another gate after 620m, and immediately turn L onto a foot track heading W, keeping the fenceline to your left for a further 640m. Alongside a house on your left (the best situated house in Canberra?), re-join the Cooleman Ridge BNT, heading L and continuing NE. The CT re-joins your route as you continue to the W of a small (sometimes dry) dam, continuing for another 340 as you swing around the N end of Cooleman Ridge, crossing horse logs to reach the intersection of Kathner St with Percy Crescent, Chapman.

Follow the track along the W side of Kathner St, which turns to the L, parallel with Darwinia Terrace. Keep the fence line on your left and after 130m turn left once again, staying next to the fence, to head W towards the Mountains.

Stay L at the fork at the track, where the CT continues to the R. You will come to a drink/aid station (approx. 10K elapsed) just before crossing the equestrian centre access road. Climb across the stile over the fence and follow the track W along the fenceline for about 300m before veering right onto a faint single track around the RHS of a small dam and then soon merging with a major fire trail. Head left on this main FT for only 20-30m before taking the main wide FT to the right which heads N and then NW heading gently uphill. Follow this for 440m until the first 4-way track junction, at which you will turn right uphill, into the pines. After a steady climb the track temporarily flattens out (after 560m) at a T-junction, where you will turn left to head uphill towards the Narrabundah Hill Trig. About 250m later you will see the faint track to the Trig on your left (you do not need to go to the Trig) – continue straight ahead and 70m later turn right to take the track heading downhill (with Telstra Tower and Black Mountain straight ahead of you in the distance).

This track continues down towards the road. As the trail approaches Eucumbene Drive keep right along the fence line to reach a pedestrian stile that you will climb over (approx. 12.4K elapsed). From here turn left (N) to follow the fenceline and the smooth dirt track which that runs downhill to Cotter Rd.

Cross Cotter Rd according to the marshal’s instructions and enter a ST that soon merges with a larger track and 100m later passes the Canberra Bushfire Memorial where you take the bike path to your left (about 13.4K elapsed), heading towards Mt Stromlo. After 350m or so the path climbs to a paved road at which you will briefly turn right and then immediately left onto a major dirt road heading uphill. After approx. 500m continue straight at the road junction to continue climbing uphill towards Mt Stromlo. After another 400m or so the road enters the blue gums and then swings left to climb up to a track intersection. Turn right at this intersection onto the Ridge Trail to head another 500m as the road swings right to the N, climbing steadily to a T-junction with a view of the Stromlo MTB course tunnel where you will turn left (uphill, heading SE, away from tunnel). This dirt road heads for approx. 500m W and then SW to join Mt Stromlo Rd, where you turn right to follow the road all the way straight up to the top of the hill (no turns) and run a semi-circle around Mt Stromlo Trig (about 16.8K) before taking the white concrete footpath down heading W.

Continue down the path to the first metal gate and then bear left (S) to pass a 2nd metal gate and follow a steep descent down a dirt road that heads SW/W for a little over 400m before it reaches a T-junction where you will turn right onto a dirt road that soon swings further right to the North to run parallel with the ridgeline above. After 400m this road has a short climb and then descends (NNW) for approximately 300m to bring you to a major track intersection, where you will turn right (NE) onto the Forest Trail (approx. 18.4K).

Follow the Forrest Trail winding around the base of Mt Stromlo for about 2.3km, avoiding all potential turn-offs, until you turn L onto the Carpark Trail (about 20.8K).

After 270m heading downhill on the Car Park trail take the left track (“Pool Link” black sign). After another 290m (and about 100m short of the Stromlo Leisure Centre gate) take the single track to the left and follow this along the north side of the Stromlo Leisure Centre fence until it takes you down to the bike path and the roundabout at the entrance to Stromlo Leisure Park. Carefully (watch for traffic!) cross the entrance roads to SFP to join (approx. 21.9K) the abandoned section of Uriarra Road heading SE down the hill towards the apartment complexes.

Near the bottom of the hill, you pass a swing gate and 70m later turn left onto Swallowtail Road for only 30m before taking the small dirt track to your left which then leads to a bike path which loops under John Gorton Drive and continues around the LHS of Holden's Creek Pond. Turn L at the T-junction at the end of the pond (about 23.2K) and soon after (about 50m) turn R onto the Grasslands Track, which you follow as a single track past two Picnic Shelters before it merges with the main dirt fire trail (about 24K). This fire trail follows a big bend in the river before swinging south back towards the Coombs houses, where it eventually becomes a bike path (approx. 24.7K).

After 400m on the bike path you will leave it, veering left (approx. 25.1K; basketball net on your right) to take the grey gravel path through the brown entrance poles. After another 500m or so the track swings left and heads up a gentle hill. 40m after passing through the walking track gate you will reach a 4-way junction (approx. 26K) at which you will continue straight ahead to a brown dirt track that soon swings right to head south alongside the Weston Creek watercourse pipe. Follow this gravel track uphill until it joins a bike path (approx. 26.2K) for about 100m before veering left and down to the Stromlo Cottage (about 26.6K).

Soon after passing the cottage veer 45 degrees left to take the dirt track between the ponds, which soon brings you to a 3-way track intersection (approx. 26.8K) where you will turn briefly right and then only 20m later, left onto a small single track that follows the southern end of the pond. Follow this along the pond edge for about 300m until it joins the bike path (approx. 27K), at which you will turn left and head up the hill to turn left onto the wide dirt track opposite the end of Kirkpatrick St. The Transition timing mat is approx. 30m along this road.

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Leg 1: Rond Terrace to Waldock St, Mount Taylor north side, 25 km

Download the leg 1 gpx file.

The start line is lakeside, in front of Rond Terrace on the North side of Lake Burley Griffin.

Follow the lakeside path (RG Menzies Walk) heading NW and then W towards, and then under Commonwealth Avenue Bridge (see detailed map, below).

Before Henry Rolland Park, cross Barrine Drive, and follow the cycle path up the ramp onto the pedestrian pathway heading south across Commonwealth Avenue Bridge. Take the first R after the bridge onto the cycle path heading W alongside Flynn Dr.

This path passes Nara Peace Park (toilets) then swings to the right near the roundabout (RDBT) after which you immediately turn left to cross Alexandrina Dr to follow the bike path up towards Parliament House. This path crosses Forster Cres, passes under 2 roads and then becomes narrow and climbs more steeply.

On the way up the hill turn right at the first path junction and then right again when you reach Parliament House to follow the grassy path on the right-hand side (RHS) of the road. After approximately 200m turn right at the first road (Melbourne Ave) to stay on the RHS footpath, which crosses a bridge over the road and leads down to a pedestrian crossing/lights at State Circle.

After crossing State Circle follow the footpath uphill on the RHS of Melbourne Ave, taking care crossing Somers Cres, National Cct, Dominion Cct, Empire Cct, and then Gawler Cres at the traffic island (at the end of Canberra Girls Grammar School), and head across to the RHS footpath towards Red Hill. After approx. 150m cross Stonehaven Cres at the RDBT to join the grassy verge on the RHS of Red Hill Dr. and then 130m later turn right immediately after crossing the bridge to join a dirt single track (ST) which then merges with the wider Deakin Reserve Fire Trail. After approx. 1K turn left at the Rutidosis Track sign to climb through a metal fence and then 20m later turn right to head steeply up the C. Russell Track.

Turn left at the next T-jn to continue uphill on a gravel road and then 100m later turn left again at the saddle track intersection to head steeply uphill once again. After passing through a metal stile take care crossing Gowrie Dr, head up the stairs and again take care crossing Red Hill Dr, entering the steps and dirt ST heading steeply uphill, which soon opens up to a right hand turn at a T-jn heading towards a radio tower. At the Red Hill Lookout Bay turn right towards the power pole to once again cross Red Hill Dr and then turn immediately left to join the dirt ST, which heads past the water tank reservoir and soon turns right and briefly down before climbing again along the fence line towards Red Hill restaurant, with expansive views of the Woden Valley opening up to your right. This track levels out near the public toilet next to Red Hill restaurant (toilet & water available), descends to a 6-way track at a saddle and continues straight ahead, up a steep climb, becomes sealed and then flattens out.

Near the top of the final climb detour left onto 30m of dirt ST to touch Davidson trig and then re-join the main trail again 50m later. Continue straight at the bottom of a short, steep descent as the track flattens and widens and becomes dirt again and after 200m or so take care to continue straight ahead to re-join the flat bitumen path.

The path then drops steeply down to a climb-through metal fence. Turn right onto the main Hindmarsh Track, staying near the fenceline for only 200m before turning 10 o’clock downhill onto a wide track that veers left after 200m (pedestrian detour) and narrows to single track running just beneath Hindmarsh Drive. After another 150m take care to veer right off this ST following the ribbon to your right, keeping the retaining wall behind the houses to your right. This will lead you down to the First Drink Station and a pair of large drainpipes on your left. Crouch down to go through the RHS drainpipe tunnel that takes you under Hindmarsh Dr. for approx. 60m.

Immediately after exiting the tunnel, turn *RIGHT* to climb up the earth bank and then drop down to join the footpath on the East side of the O’Malley houses. Stay on this path, taking the path that stays to the left of the playground, climb the stairs and head approx. 100m until the first street (Keyar St), where you turn left – staying on the footpath – to head down back towards the bush. After about 100m this path turns right and approx. 80m later look out for a metal gate on your left opposite house numbers 10 and 12 (flag pole). Turn left through this gate to follow a wide track that takes you uphill for about 700m (do not take any side tracks) where you come out into a second open area and turn hard right (change from heading East to SW) at the junction with another main trail (Centenary Trail). Follow this downhill onto a lovely single track cruising back into the forest towards the southern end of the O’Malley bushland, crossing a marshy area at the bottom and then starting a another climb heading SW.

After approx. 500m of steady gentle climb this track merges with a wider track from the left and 60m later you veer left (11 o’clock) onto a small access ST for 30m and turn left again at the T-jn (Equestrian sign) to head uphill. Follow this main track up the hill and then along the flat section above the houses in Isaacs for about 1.2K before entering the pines, taking care to stay on the left (higher) trail before turning hard left at the first equestrian sign then 40m later staying left at the fork to head very steeply uphill.

At the top of this steep pitch the track swings East while offering expansive views of the Woden Valley and beyond to the North, climbs gently to Sheaffe Trig and then follows the fence line along the ridge for approx. 1.2K.

Along the way you head down to a minor saddle, a small climb, and then descend to a major saddle where you merge with a wider road to continue heading uphill to your right. Just before the top of the climb take the right fork in the track to soon merge with the ridgeline track near the orange/white radio tower and then only 30m later turn right (downhill) onto a fire trail which heads down into the pines. After 400m or so this trail turns right and drops very steeply for about 300m before swinging hard right again along a gentle descent between the pines. Turn left (downhill) 300m later at the next intersection and follow this for only 100m before veering right to join 40m of dirt ST that cuts the corner to join another equestrian track heading right towards Shepherdson Pl.

After 200m turn left to take the sealed path uphill to pass under Yamba Dr. – approx. 50m later veer left uphill off this track at approx. 10’o clock heading to pass a wooden fence and continue straight through to a very rocky 200m stretch of track which swings left and downhill towards the houses at Farrer. Turn left onto the track behind the houses and after 500m or so take care to stay on the right, lowest, flat track (2 o’ clock heading) that stays closest to the houses. A bit over 500m later when the main track turns left you can cut the corner to the right following 80m of ST which then merges with another main track that heads roughly parallel to the Farrer houses. About 600m further on you should bear left at the fork in the track (equestrian sign) to head away from the houses. This track starts to descend past the RHS of the water reservoir and soon after turns left, heading straight towards Mt Taylor and downhill to cross some wooden equestrian stiles to arrive at the 2nd drink station on the eastern side of Athlon Dr. This is the largest and most dangerous road crossing of the race and you MUST obey the road marshals’ instructions as to when you can cross both double lane sections.

After crossing Athlon Dr you cross a bike path, go through a gate near a stile and continue directly uphill on the Torrens Houses fire trail (FT). A bit over 1K later (near the corner of the housing line on your right) turn left, uphill, at the Mrs Low’s FT sign to pass through a gate, and 70m later turn right before the tourist information board to head steeply uphill on the track that leads up Mt Taylor. This narrow track passes several lookout chairs that offer great views of the Tuggeranong Valley and the Brindabella Mountains before becoming stepped and steeper and then opens out to a wider road that soon turns right and climbs very steeply towards the radio tower. At the top of this steep climb veer right onto 60m of rocky ST that takes you to the Mt Taylor trig and then 60m back left to re-join the main FT heading North, which drops gently, turns to bitumen, and then drops very steeply, offering a dramatic view to the North. The road briefly turns back to dirt and temporarily flattens out before swinging left (West) and dropping steeply once again on a 100m bitumen section. Turn right (2’o clock) immediately at the end of this bitumen section onto a dirt track and 100m later bear right at the fork, continuing 90m to the Transition station just above the steps leading down to the Waldock St (dead end) car park.

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I didn’t really have a choice in entering this event. In 2011, I entered and didn’t finish, so was compelled, even required, to go back and finish what I’d started. With more training and weighing less, I was ready for another shot at it. So last Sunday, the 2nd of March, I dived into the water before sunrise and started a long day……

for those that just want the summary, I think this photo sums it all up.

Here is what was planned for the day:
Leg 1 – Swim 1.5km

Started at 7am, it was light, but the sun hadn’t come over the hills east of the lake. We all started together (47 teams ranging from 4 to 12 members, mixed teams and 2 solos). A good swim, non-eventful really. It’s fresh water, so I only thought about sharks for about 10% rather than 50% of the time. The water was cool, but perfect in my wetsuit. Leif was there to cheer me out with encouragement and my gear for the next leg.

Time: 25:44 (27:15 in 2011)
Transition time to Paddle: 2 mins
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454348255

Leg 2 – Paddle 9km

I brought my Dorado surf ski this time as it’s faster than the Mirage Sea Kayak (used in 2011). Had a good leg as I sat behind a lady in a K1 type boat most of the way who was going just the right pace for me to conserve some energy yet pretty fast, otherwise uneventful. Was passed by a few, but passed many.
Time: 52:18 (1:01:00 in 2011)
Transition time to Run: 1 min
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454348274

Leg 3 – Run 7km

A relatively flat run considering the area it’s in – basically follows the lake shore. Magic views that time in the morning. Didn’t pass anyone, but passed by a few. It was hard having people run past you, but I had to remember that I’m a pretty average runner and it was just the beginning of a long day.
Time: 38:40 (58:32 in 2011)
Transition time to Bike: 1 min
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454348298

Leg 4 – Bike 8km (technical)
This is all single track and very technical. Although it’s not long in distance this is the first use of the hills surrounding the lake. I had my same BMC Trailfox 01 – great bike, didn’t let me down once. I did manage to smash both knee caps into the head stem/handlebars when trying to get my feet out of the pedals while getting stuck in some tricky terrain, but I was certainly not the only person swearing out there. Passed a couple, got passed by a few.
Time: 47:36 (1:01:06 in 2011)
Transition time to Swim: 6 mins
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454348316

Leg 5 – Swim 2.5km (long)
Jeez it’s hard getting into a wet wetsuit, but with two and a half kms in cool freshwater it’s worth it. You swim right past the dam wall, and I only breathe to my left, so I got a good view of it for a while. I replaced my limited thoughts of sharks with ‘what would happen of the dam wall broke?’ Didn’t get passed, passed a few.
Time: 48:45 (55:57 in 2011)
Transition time to Paddle: 3 mins
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454348329

Leg 6 – Paddle 5.5km
The best part about this leg was that I didn’t get lost. Last time, I just figured I’d turn the corner and follow the other paddlers – I turned the corner and there were no paddlers to be seen!! This time I was 46 minutes in front of my 2011 time and there were paddlers everywhere. Passed and got passed by a couple.
Time: 36:17 (56:45 in 2011 – got lost and added 2km to the trip)
Transition time to Bike: 2 mins
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454348342

Leg 7 – Bike 11km
Wow – looking at my time in comparison to 2011, the extra kms in my prep surely showed off. It’s a funny ride – wide open fields on farmers’ dirt roads and some parts just through the grass. A couple of times you have to climb over barbed wire fences with makeshift stairs made from milk crates tied together – a little wobbly, and certainly didn’t want to get that wrong wearing only thin tri pants!! Passed a few, didn’t get passed.
Time: 34:23 (44:17 in 2011)
Transition time to Run: 2 mins
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454348355

Leg 8 – Run 12.5km

This is the leg that completely overwhelmed me in 2011 and marked the end of my race. I simply wasn’t prepared for how hard it was. Being that I am not designed to run up hills, this is a killer. It’s a 12.5km run with 562m of vertical. That’s like running the Balmoral Burn up Awaba Street over 8 times. For a leg that I had thought about and worried about for years, in only about first 100m from the start I screwed it up. I missed a turn off and was lost, adding about 1.2km to the leg. I found two other lost guys. We questioned each other about which way to go and what to do. We bitched and moaned about how hopeless the trail markers were until we saw them……then shut up and just got on with running. This year they made us cross the Thredbo River. Not wanting to run in wet shoes for two hours I chose to burn the time and take them off before wading through the water…some passed me just ploughing through the water. Even though I had trained for this hill, it still got me. I walked the steeps and ran the rest. I didn’t pass anyone, but was passed by many. Best news of the day – finished ahead of the cut off time!!
Time: 2:01:01 (2:27:38 in 2011)

Transition time to Bike: 3 mins
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454348390

Leg 9 – Bike 43km (long)

Now in uncharted waters…..though a more appropriate saying would be “back in the bloody hills”. After surviving the vertical challenge of Leg 8, Leg 9 starts off with what is one of the two most mentally challenging parts of the day – more vertical in the form of 8km of up. No flattening off, no undulations, just up. And with no shade in the middle of the day, it was hot. It was mentally hard as I didn’t know when it was going to stop. I was on my own – couldn’t see anyone in front or behind. I knew the leg was 43km, was hoping to finish it in around 3 hours, but when I had only completed 8km after 45 mins I was worried. The up finally finishes at Rennix Gap 1600m above sea level. The tar road is then soon replaced by dirt roads for a massive downhill. It was natures air conditioning – shaded by trees and flying down more vertical decent than I’d just climbed – I was nice and cold by the bottom. Didn’t last long – the next climb was on loose, rocky, dirt roads that were steeper than the tar. Many times I was off my bike walking, only to realise my legs had had enough of that from leg 8, so back to pedalling. I passed many on this leg, as others were hurting/walking more than I was. Good feeling riding past those who ran past me in the last leg (although they were different team members). There was lots of talk of the cut off time for this leg and would we make it – everyone seemed to have different information. I knew this leg finished at lake level, so there had to be another big downhill. Knowing that pushed me up and over the last of the climbs before the fast, steep and free flowing roll to the bottom…so excited to see the water and Leif with my dry wetsuit!!!

Time: 3:10:47 (didn’t do in 2011)
Transition time to Swim: 4 mins
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454348431

Leg 10 – Swim 1.4km
It’s now nearly 5:30 in the afternoon. I’m so happy the bike is over and I can get in that cool water. My happiness soon turned to worry when my legs started cramping. I was so thankful for my wetsuit – just float my legs, don’t move them and the cramps would stay away. It worked and I made it to the end. A mouthful of Enduralytes after the swim made those the last cramps of the day. Smashed about 6 pieces of watermelon in transition, so refreshing and cleansing after drinking my fuel mix all day.
Time: 27:26
Transition time to Paddle: 8 mins
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454348450

Leg 11 – Paddle 9.5 (long)

This was hard. The afternoon wind had arrived, whipping up some surface chop which was hitting us on an angle for most of the way (did you like how I said ‘us’…..as I still had company!!), so I was burning energy just balancing. It was certainly slow, but knowing there was only a run to go made it easier. I paddled with another guy for most of the leg. We chatted about the sun that was now behind the western mountains that I’d run and biked up and down, and how long ago it was that the sun was on the other side of the lake rising in the morning. That gave me some perspective of what a long day it had been so far. I’ve got to get a new ski – my bum goes numb in the seat, then my left leg, which is not good with a run to follow.
Time: 1:11:14

Transition time to Run: 3 mins
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454348468>

Leg 12 – Run 5km (flat)
What can I say…..all I wanted to do now was run the whole way without walking - and I did. It wasn’t fast. I was body tired. I always wonder what is the limiting factor – heart, lungs, legs/arms or your head. I felt like I was having a conversation with a third party when checking in on my legs, they surprisingly were up for it. My heart was ticking away in the low 140s and my head had nothing but the finishing line in it. So it was my lungs that set the pace. I kept looking at the mins/km on my watch and so wanted it to be less than 7mins/km….why I don’t know. I was passed by two, but happy with my 6:47/km. I watched the 0.1 of the kms tick by so knew when I was close. When I turned the last corner and saw the finish chute, expecting a wave of pure happiness to hit, I was quite caught by surprise when my first reaction was a welling up in my eyes. Instead of arms in the air with muscles flexed in victory, I was again surprised with the lightly clenched fists on my chest matching the emotion in my eyes – more of a quiet thank you to my body. Ok, with that done I crossed the line – ABSOLUTELY STOKED. My trusty mate Leif was there again, like he had been all day at every transition, to welcome me in. I can’t remember smiling with such joy from crossing a finish line like that before. Almost immediately they presented me with the 2nd place Solo Trophy – so wasn’t expecting that. You can choose how to remember it – there were three solo competitors signed up, one pulled out at registration and joined a team, two started and two finished, so I either came 2nd or last.
Time: 32:20
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/454348491

From the official race report:
Only two solo entrants toed the line at Kalkite Waters, joining the teams' start at 7 am. A small contingent they may have been, yet they provided – for the first occasion in the event's history – a 100% finish rate for the whole solo field. Graham Hammell from Gerringong, was originally entered with a mate as a team of two, yet when his friend was unable to attend, rather than withdrawing himself, Graham decided simply to step up to the next level and race the whole thing solo. His time of 11:13:03 was a sensational return for the courage, commitment and daring to take on this challenge: he even collected a new course record (for soloists) for the MTB1 course along the way. David Shirley of Castlecrag (NSW), is another who came and conquered on his second attempt, finishing in 12:47:12 after a steady and focussed race throughout. We salute both soloists – your cheerful demeanour and constant respect and appreciation for the efforts of all the course marshals and helpers along the way demonstrated both your humility and magnanimity, which combined with your sheer guts and determination gave us all tremendous inspiration and joy in your achievements.

Distance: 115.4km (Swim 5.4km, Paddle 24km, Run 25km & Bike 62km)
Race time: 12 hours 6 mins
Transition time: 40 mins
Average Heart rate for the 12 hours 46 mins: 143 bpm
Elevation Ascent: 1,957m
Elevation Descent: 1,950m

Thanks to my Danielle, Jasmine, Saskia & Bella who supported (put up with) me through all the training, the endless talking about, and the time away from home. A MASSIVE thanks to Leif who gave up his weekend to come help me achieve this. A thanks to Mark Rechner who was a backup in case Leif couldn’t make it.

Thanks to Stan, who, whether on the ride or not pushed me in training – what has Strava done to us?!!?
It’s a great event of camaraderie and support from the fellow competitors, helpers and course officials.

TICK – never again as a solo…….who’s up for a team? Bags not do leg 8 or 9.

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My friend told me about this race earlier in the year. And at the time it sounded like a really good idea to enter. I thought it looked like a lot of fun! He also said he would enter and we could do the race together. However as race day got closer his name failed to appear on the start list. Thankfully he ended up being one of my crew members for the day.

I had also roped my parents and a friend into being my support crew as my boyfriend was away that weekend for a work trip. I arrived in Canberra on Saturday morning from Brisbane.

We arrived at the swim start at 5am to pretty much an empty car park. After a few minutes more cars arrived and it felt a bit more like a race was about to start. I got into my wetsuit and walked over to the start area. I signed in and had a quick dip in the water before the race briefing started. As we were on the water’s edge my boyfriend came running up. He had flown down the night before to surprise me on race morning. It worked, I was super surprised. After a quick hug from him and a warning from the race director to watch out for snakes we were off.

I was really surprised to be leading the swim right from the start. It was great, I had my own little kayak escort. I took the swim pretty easy as I wasn’t quite sure how to pace myself for the big day ahead. Sighting was super easy as we were swimming directly towards the tower. It felt like I was heading towards the tower all day. I got out of the water and ran straight for my crew. They had everything laid out ready to go. I was hoping I would have had someone to follow early on in the bike as I had no idea where the bike went and what the course markings looked like. I had no dramas however finding the arrows marked on the ground. I made it to about the 4km mark before the first solo male came flying past me. Everyone who passed me during the day was really encouraging and super friendly.

I had no idea how tough the course was going to be. If I had of known I definitely would have spent some more time on my mountain bike in training. I really enjoyed the challenge of the bike legs. Pushing my bike up crazy steep hills, riding on loose gravel, lifting my bike over hundreds of gates, squeezing through tiny tunnels, looking for arrows and crosses along the way, dodging kangaroos and cows and of course just covering the distance of each leg.

I came into transition two still in the lead, but only just. After a quick change I was out on the run and heading up yet another hill. The scenery on the first run was really awesome. I felt like I was running in a foreign country. The weather was perfect all day. I ran the first run at my own pace not worrying about what was happening behind me. I knew Julie Quinn was a gun runner and that she would catch me pretty early in the run. She flew by me, and looked like she was doing it super easy, especially on the uphills. I thought I’d be doing a good job if I could limit the damage to about 10 minutes. So I was really surprised to see Julie just up ahead as I finished the first run.

After a quick banana sandwich I was heading into Lake Burley Griffin. I felt pretty good right from the start of the swim. I found it really interesting swimming point to point and was pretty excited to pass a couple of team swimmers along the way.

Out of the swim and I headed straight to my awesome crew. They did a great job all day of having what I wanted and needed ready. The second ride and run were really enjoyable. I found the second bike ride a little less technical than the first and the run was about the right length. I made sure I kept on top of my nutrition. I had a variety of gels, cliff shot bloks, mars bars, banana sandwiches, water, Gatorade and coke all during the course of the day.

The third swim went by really quickly and before I knew it I was off on the last bike ride of the day. I felt ok at the start of the ride and tried to set a decent pace for the first section. But as soon as I hit the hills I had nothing. I felt like I was going backwards. It was actually quite hilarious how bad I felt. I was actually laughing out loud at how much I was struggling. I was certain Julie would come past me at any moment. But I made it into the last transition of the day still in the lead. I had no idea how I was going to make it to the end as I felt completely out of energy and all I could mutter to my crew was, “coke, coke, I need coke”. But as soon as I started running I actually felt ok. Up a few hills, down a few hills, I kept ticking the km’s over and soon enough the finish line was in sight.

After 12 hours and 3 minutes I had finished. I had an absolutely awesome day and really enjoyed myself. A huge thankyou to the volunteers and the race organisers and to everyone who took part and of course my crew who looked after me all day.

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Firstly I have to confess, I am not really a triathlete. I did a dozen triathlons in my early 20's before I worked out that I was an awful swimmer, a modest rider but a pretty fast runner. I also enjoyed running more than riding, and lots more than swimming. So I've spent the last two decades as a runner and haven't done a triathlon in 18 years, but having recently talked a bunch of mates into doing an Ironman I thought the triple-tri would be a good first comeback triathlon.

I also figured as a young fella, that one is fast when young, and then you get slower as you age. So as a life-long strategy I chose to run fast while I was young, and leave long-distance races, such as marathons and Ironman until I was an old codger. My thinking was that this would allow me fresh challenges, without being reminded that I am not as fast or strong as I once was. Being 41, I was no longer able to pretend that I was in my youth, so here I am building towards Ironman WA in December 2013.

With a target set, it was time to start preparing - dust off the 1992 Malvern Star and buy a pair of swimmers. I also had to face the reality that I had never raced further than 50 km or 3.5 hours, so I needed experience at fueling and fatigue management, not to mention facing an intimidating long open-water swim. The Sri Chinmoy Triple Tri has a 3.5km open water swim, so I figured I would give it a go and sent off my solo entry.

The knowledgeable triathletes that I mentioned this to were of the unanimous opinion that I was perhaps being a little ambitious. I had realistic ambitions for the day (i) finish, (ii) complete the swims confidently, (iii) enjoy myself, and (iv) take the solo course record for the final run leg.

We had a beautiful day for the race - dead calm for the first swim. Into my old custom fit Aleeda wetsuit. It's a credit to the benefits of a fitness lifestyle that a custom fit wetsuit made for me when I was 21 still fits at 41 as well as it ever did. As a non-swimmer, wetsuit swims are by far the best kind of swim. I can't swim and my longest training session has been 1500 m with breaks, so I approached the swim with some trepidation.

The start was low key in typical Sri Chinmoy fashion, with a dozen of us in the water for the solo start. We spread out quickly, or to be honest the pack swam away from me quickly, as I modestly made my way around Lake Ginninderra. In training I'd had issues with lactate accumulating in my arms. It appears this is from 3-breathing, whereas in the race I 2-breathed and had absolutely no issues with fatigue. It seems my muscles just like oxygen too much. The water was fairly warm until the major turn, but then was much colder once we turned towards the swim exit. Around this time the lead team swimmers went past like a motor boat.

It was a relief to get out of the water because I now knew that I could complete the race - my biggest uncertainty was whether I could really do the swims. Although the big swim was still to come, I was sure I could complete it. Being early in the morning it was still fairly cool, so two cycling jerseys and winter arm warmers were the go for the first ride. It still took until the base of Black Mountain for me to really get my mojo back after the coldness of the swim. The walk up 'push-bike hill' on Black Mountain was the first chance to really meet my fellow competitors, they really should have a photo on the web site of the stream of lyrca clad athletes all walking up the fire trail pushing or carrying their bikes. Once we neared the asphalt I started riding again, and set my normal riding pattern for the day - pass people going up hills and on flats, and let them past as I rode like a Nanna in a 73 Corolla on the way back down. I could make excuses about riding a 'mountain bike' with no suspension, commuter tyres with solid bead and 55PSI. But the reality is that I am barely a cyclist, and certainly not a MTB'er. On the bright side, although the tyres gave very little grip I had no pinch flats and they are fast on the smoother surfaces.

Coming off the bike I downed a salt-fizz in transition. I used one of these in nearly all the transitions for the day, and if avoiding cramp is a measure of success then this was adequate for salt replacement. They are also a pleasant taste to 'resample' during the swim. My other nutrition for the day was a single gatorade bottle on each bike leg and then endura gels, where I had three on most ride and run legs. I ate one banana in T4 to keep my wife happy, and had some fruit at an aid station late in the day. I have adapted to gels in running races, where I can carry enough to give myself nutrition certainty when custom drinks are not available. I also find that gels avoid the horrible mouth and throat effects of too much sports drink. I raced in Sugoi tri-shorts all day as a trial of gear for Ironman, these were great. I used chamois cream at the start of each ride, and had no chafing and no issues with the chamois on the runs. I am used to racing in running shorts that have a pocket that can hold my gels, so I did all three runs holding my spare gels in my hand. As a runner I don't believe in race belts as I have no fleshy bits to support them.

Given goal #1 was to finish I needed to avoid spending any go-beans on the runs. So on each climb I stopped and stayed with the first competitor that I caught, so I walked up most of the early hills. The feeling on the course was very much like a long training run, I had several extended conversations with new friends. On this run I met fellow solo competitors Warren, James and Nick, who I would see and travel with regularly throughout the day. Coming down through the War Memorial I diverted to pause and reflect for a minute at the Montevideo Maru memorial in memory of my grandfather, then rejoined James and Nick for the trot down to the boatshed and completion of our first triathlon of the day. A team competitor we were with had fallen three times on the run - beats me how.

The swim down Lake Burley Griffin was flat, and my confidence was buoyed not only by the successful 1500m in leg 1, but by having my mate Jon paddle with me the whole way - I do recommend an escort paddler for this leg. I swam this 3.5km leg non-stop with only the barest twinge of incipient cramps in my legs that were driven off by a few kicks. The water temperature was variable, and for the second time today I came out shaking from the cold by the time I finished. I still think this is a small penalty to pay for the benefits of a lean body on hills. The shivers passed quickly once on the bike as the day had warmed up nicely. Maybe I'll invest in one of those newfangled wetsuits that has sleeves.

The second cycle is probably the hottest leg, especially as the breeze doesn't make it to the stretch at the back of Mt Stromlo. My helper Jon rode most of the remainder of the course with me. Having returned from Afghanistan about 10 days earlier he had not had the opportunity to swim, ride or run for six months. I'm sure he would have been a fellow solo competitor otherwise. He took a tumble over his bars on one of the downhills prior to the Uriarra road crossing and lost a whole swag of skin, but still rode what must have been close to 100km in the afternoon without complaint. Summiting Stromlo is a watershed moment in the race. I reached here feeling comfortable save for a lumpy throat converting itself into a bit of a head cold, but I knew it was all (figuratively) downhill from here. The challenges that I thought were a risk were behind me - I had swum the two longest swims, I had done most of the mountain biking, and I had avoided cracking with fatigue or going out too hard.

I walked up the steep pitches on the bike and run legs, as well as the technical downhills on the bike, this is a safe strategy, but I left many minutes out on the course. If you want a good time for this race, getting good MTB skills and a sensible bike will pay dividends. The Lake Tuggeranong swim had a bit of surface luffed up by the breeze, which set up a modest washing machine effect near the exit at the Arts Centre - but at 1200m it is best summarised as a refreshing dip at this part of the race. I wet suited for it, but I think a good swimmer would be faster without the transition delays. The final ride includes two sharp climbs, plus the famous tunnel under Hindmarsh Drive. I think riding the tunnel is for people smaller or more skilled them me - probably both.

Into the last transition I still pretended to myself that I was going to shoot for the solo record for this leg. I was fairly fresh and had the advantage that the day was now cooling into evening. I struggled into the toe-socks and five-fingers again (I did all my runs in these) and set off up Red Hill at a trot. Coming down towards the bike path in Curtin I was about a minute outside the time I figured I needed. I had been using the goal of racing this last leg as an excuse to go easy in the rest of the event. This had served its purpose - I was on the last leg and was going to finish, I had avoided going out too hard. I had enjoyed myself, and completed the swims. As a bonus I was going to place in the middle of the solo field, which is always nice and was certainly more than I deserved. Approaching the aid station I elected to enjoy this last leg and finish fresh and happy rather than shatter myself in a probably unsuccessful attempt on the record. So I stopped at the aid station, gorged down half the remaining fruit, and chatted to the volunteer for a minute or four (really? it felt like two but the Garmin never lies), and I then pattered down the bike path to meet my wife and kids. The kids were happy to see me back in my home suburb, so I ran with them for a bit, before pressing on towards the finish at a pace 5:45/km and a heart rate of 120 bpm. I felt invincible, it was so smooth and comfortable just cruising alone the bike path towards the finish. Every race I've ever done before I've flogged myself to grab every second as I approach the finish - easing off to savour those last few minutes is a completely different experience.

It was close to dark as I reached Yarralumla Bay and crossed the line hand-in-hand with my kids Charlie and Delle, in a bit over 14:13. I was rewarded with the famous Sri Chinmoy post-race food and presentations shortly after. I was surprised to discover that I came 4th U50 Male, and 5th solo overall. Hat's off to the other Craig that was faster than me and took out the over 50 category.

Logistics is a big component of this event for solo competitors. Transition kits are essential, my crew were great (thanks Mum, Dad and Jon), planning is probably a little easier if your crew have raced before themselves and know Canberra. Knowing the course, at least roughly, is also an advantage and minimises risk - several non-local solo competitors took wrong turns. The course directions on the web are ambiguous in places. The marking on the day is good, but there are a hundred opportunities to err.

The solo Triple-Tri has a mystique about it, and as with most big challenges this is sort of justified. It is a long day and is only achievable by those that are really fit. But it is not only for the elite. There were clearly two groups of solo athletes that finished the event. The racers that did 12 hours, and the rest of us that did 14 hours or more. Racing the event takes thorough preparation and has the risk of overextending. But many, many Bilby's could complete this event if their goal is simply to finish. Sure, you need to be able to ride and run for a few hours without being shattered, but the regular transitions seem to keep you fresh throughout the day. I approached this race as though it was an epic training day and it pretty much was. In post-race recovery I had much less muscle soreness than I would from racing a marathon, but have noticed my metabolism in a funny place that affects sleep and eating this week. This is a classic local race that is more accessible than you think.

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by Paul Smith

Up until this 100k race I had only done one other ultra race - the Brindabella 100 miler (165km, an epic fatass event on again in 2015 - check it out at http://brindabella100.com/) in February 2012. I took that race so easy at the start that I felt fresh at the 100k mark, and it is hillier (4600m ascent) so I knew I would have few issues making 100k. I just wasn't sure I could really race it and hammer the downhills without blowing up. Despite only racing one ultra I have done a heap of sillly training runs over the last 3 years such as an 85km run from my home in Holder to Blue Waterholes in Kosciuszko National Park, via Kambah Pool/Tidbinbilla/Corin.

I had decided I would take the start of the race very easy as I was a bit under done with sickness leading up to race day, but managed to get in 2 decent 50/60k runs in the 2 months beforehand. They were very hilly runs on my current favourite long run course - Holder to Cotter, then on firetrails/motorbike trails/no trails to Tidbinbilla, then back via Bullen Range somewhat randomly either via Kambah Pool or Pine Island or somewehere in between, and home. There probably is a pattern there, getting sick after every 50/60k run which finished with a freezing cold swim across the Murrumbidgee River, but I like to ignore such trivial things.

Right from the start of the 100k I stuck religiously to my non-scientific strategy of saving my legs by walking down every steep downhill early in the race. I kept this up until about the 40k mark when we hit Stromlo Forest Park and was in 8th place amongst the solos. I had run very easy, but was a bit concerned as I definitely didn't feel as fresh as I hoped.

My downhill strategy meant I was with running politician extraordinaire Shane Rattenbury along the top of Red Hill, but lost so much time walking down that I only just caught him at the top of Isaacs. Walked down Isaacs, nearly caught him again at the top of Mt Taylor. Walked down, nearly caught him at the top of Mt Arawang. Walked down, and finally caught and passed him halfway up Stromlo. I then got sick of the yo-yoing and started running the downhills. Shane started having cramping problems not long after, so I didn't see him again.

Including Shane, I passed 2 other solo runners on the way up or down Mt Stromlo, and by the end of leg 2 at the National Arboretum was in 4th place, 12 minutes down on the leader Thomas Brazier.

I started to struggle in leg 3 but pepped up a bit on the summit trail of Black Mountain where I had my first date (yes - a running date) 13 years ago with my wonderful wife Simone, who was also my helper for the race. To stop her from getting bored during the long day I had gone for a high work rate helper strategy - I was carrying only the bare minimum allowed amount of water in 2 x 250ml flasks strapped to a minimal triathlon water belt. I had her follow me around all day and give me water every 5km or so, allowing me to run free without a pack and in my mind enabling me to enjoy the event a lot more.

I was feeling good and ran in to 2nd place at the back of O'Connor, passing eventual 2nd place finisher Paul Cuthbert up a hill, but then took a hard fall a km later on the last steep downhill bit of dirt before exiting the reserve (why didn't I walk that one?). I would like to blame the fall for my very average performance after that, but it was more likely the running on the paths/stormwater drains through O'Connor/Dickson to the end of the leg. Paul was running well on the flats/downhills and only struggling on the uphills, but I really struggled mentally once we exited the dirt, and I cracked and he was able to put a few minutes on me in the last 3km of the leg.

My strategy of saving my legs early seemed to have worked for a while, but was long forgotten by the time I started leg 4, and was struggling up Mt Majura. I managed to run down off Majura okay, but I then got lost due to some mischievous modifications to the course markings (damn those Hackett NIMBYs!) and lost perhaps 15 minutes (2 or 3km at my current pace) and also lost 3rd place to Andrew Donaldson who I didn't see all day. It was that sort of a race, only getting one glimpse or two or none, of other competitors all day.

I really just wanted the race to be over and done with in the last 10km, struggling up Mt Ainslie, then hobbling down the horrible Ainslie walking path. I was still able to run, but it was not pretty. The last km or so along the lake was painful, but I managed to run it in solidly. I was very happy to finish in a tad under 10hrs 30 min.

Thanks to the wonderful Sri Chinmoy Marathon team for a great event, all the volunteers for their help and enthusiasm, and all the solo runners for their camaraderie, and to all the team runners (of which there were some very impressive performances) and supporters who all gave me encouragement out there during the day. And also to local ultra legend Martin Fryer for designing and marking the course, and re-marking again on race day.

Highlights for me:

* The zig-zagging track following kangaroo trails through the O'Malley Woodlands, one of my favourite running places. I could easily do a whole 100km in the woodlands.

* The scenic summit trail on Black Mountain, one of Canberra's hidden treasures.

* The encouragement from every team runner who passed me (okay, all except one - there was one that was in the zone).

Lowlights for me:

* Disappointment yet again running through the Coppins Crossing causeway under the road. I have come across a lingerie photo shoot there previously. Unfortunately nothing interesting to report this time.

* The frequent NIMBY course marking issues.

* The descent down Mt Ainslie. Ouch!

Cheers

Paul Smith

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The Inaugural Sri Chinmoy Canberra Centenary 100km Trail Run
by Tom Brazier, 23, Canberra.

During my pre-race stalking of competitors, a few familiar names left me looking forward to the challenge of a closely contested race, with quite a few guys all within reach of each other depending on how things went on the day.

After a hectic drive from Belconnen into Lake Burley Griffin, we arrived with five minutes to spare before the start, phew! Saw some friendly faces in the starting bunch including Gus Hayes, Pierre Francois and Damo Stewart. Determined not to be that young guy who went out too hard and paid for it later in the race, it was a relief to have Wes Gibson and Paul Cuthbert lead us out at a reasonable pace. I tucked in with Damian Smith to reminisce about our wrong turn during Tour de Ridges last year while we trotted past Parliament House.
Once we hit Red Hill, Wes, Paul, Damo and I worked together to put a bit of time into the rest of the field. Isaac’s Ridge was my favourite section – stories about our favourite races plus some nerdy runner gear chat. Jokes were made about the temptation to take off on the downhill single track but we stuck to our semi-disciplined pacing strategy. The climb up Taylor was the first sustained walking section, and we all followed Paul down the slopes into CP1.

Quick transitions all round, Sarah had my “delicious” powdered food ready to go and we were off towards Mt Arawang. On the downhill single track I took a chance to be the rabbit off the front, figuring that the other guys would catch me on the upcoming flats, but it would cost them a bit of extra effort. Rob Walter sprinted past me on his way to a sub-7 relay team finish, crazily fast! Soon Paul caught me and we ran across the Stromlo grass track together feeling like school cross country kids.
Paul took the lead as we hiked up the fire trails, and I couldn’t see anyone behind us on the switchbacks. I wanted to have a lead going into the flatter leg 3, as I was feeling strong on the hills but vulnerable on the fast running sections, so snuck away from Paul as we came down from Stromlo. The Arboretum section seemed to drag on forever until finally I shuffled into CP2, desperate for sunscreen and craving some water.
Once again Sarah was on top of everything and seeing the ANU tri club relay boys was a boost. It was clear the next leg would be a battle, as I resorted to a walk-run combo through the cork plantation. Brad Carron-Arthur sped past me on his way to the 3rd fastest time for leg 3, having only been called up to race a few days beforehand. However I saw him again a few minutes later on the Aranda powerline track, where some of the course markings had been interfered with. Fortunately Elizabeth Humphries came through with perfect timing and showed us the correct route, thanks!

Black mountain was a struggle but I was spurred on by a steady stream of relay runner reports of Paul being 5mins or 500m behind me, just out of sight. A bit of warm, flat coke near the top did the trick (or maybe it was the fact we were heading downhill again) and my spirits picked up towards Bruce Ridge. It was a lonely, steady jog from here through the footpaths of Lyneham and the stormwater drains of Dickson. The party atmosphere at CP3 was encouraging but I had to stay on task so it was quickly off to Majura.
Hiking up to the saddle, I reached the out-and-back summit section and opted for a rogaining inspired bag drop. A strategic call to my crew at CP3 gave them a bit of a fright, but got me an update on who was chasing and how close they were. I managed to get back from the trig, grab my pack and sneak off before any solo runners came through. This gave me the psychological edge of being out of sight of any chasers, so I really had to concentrate on not taking a tumble down the mountain. A quick calculation told me a sub-10 finish was achievable.

Just before the final Ainslie climb, up popped an aid station with Tom Landon-Smith from AROC, and I managed a “You organised TNF100, both our names are Tom!” I hiked purposefully up the back of Ainslie, stealing a glance over my shoulder where possible. All of a sudden I was running on that damned concrete again, coming down Ainslie and around the lake towards the finish. A cheeky challenge from my mate Jack saw me “sprint” up the final grassy hill – 9:48:48. The training, planning and support from family and crew all came together for a thoroughly enjoyable race.

Thanks to the Sri Chinmoy marathon team and Martin Fryer for a fun and challenging new course. The aid station volunteers were super friendly and supportive. Congrats to the other solo finishers and thanks to the relay crews for the motivation as they flew past us.

Nutrition: Skipped the gluten loading party on Friday night (editor's note-gluten free options were available!) ~240 cals/hr of homemade mix - 80% maltodextrin / 20% soy protein isolate + flavouring/electrolytes. 500mL water/hr with extra at CPs. A bit of coke at aid stations and 100mg caffeine on the last two legs.
Gear: Inov8 Trailroc 255, Ultimate Direction PB vest.

Read a story on Tom from the ANU Sport website>>

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A race being held on 07/07/13 was always going to be auspicious in terms of numbers, and so it proved to be – several new course records including outright fastest time over the Long Course, and a record field of 94 starters.

A beautiful day for racing, over a fast course produced excellent results across the field, and hearty appetites for the post-race pancake spread.

Jason Chalker's long-standing Long Course record, set in 2005, finally fell to the impressive Scott Chancellor, who took 18 seconds off Jason's overall course time, and a mere 3 seconds off his bike course record en route. Scott seemed to be barely puffing as he crossed the line after what most consider to be a pretty tough race. Not far behind Scott were Matt de Pomeroy (1:43:24), David Osmond (1:44:16), John Power (1:44:45), Steve Fitchett (1:47:02) and Kelby Murray (1:49:18), making it an unprecedented 6 finishers in under 1:50.

The Male Over 50 Long Course race saw every record beaten today. Gary Lilley set the first run and bike course records on his way to a remarkable finish time of 1:57:50 – the first Male Over 50 to break the 2 hour mark on this course; while Jon Schol made up for an unintentionally extra-long bike leg to set a new fastest time over the final run of 40:12.

The other record to fall in the Long Course race was in the All-Female Teams, where Elizabeth Humphries (who already holds the Mixed Team record with Dave Osmond) teamed up with Louise Sharp to set a new time of 2:02:45, bringing them home a mere 7 seconds behind the first All-Male team "Cowbatch"!

Fastest team on the day however was the Mixed combo of Mace Neve (runner) and Trevor Jacobs (mountain bike) who clocked 1:59:18 between them.

Sophie Bos was the fastest Female Under 50 today, winning in 2:10:24 with quite a margin to the rest of the field, including Kate Vandenberg in 2:24:39, who had her own excellent race with 3rd-placegetter Liz Stephens (2:25:52). Sally Jeffrey took out the Solo Female 50+ category in a sprightly 2:30:06.

In the Short Course race, Alan Clark sped around the course faster than any Male 50+ ever has before him, clocking 43:45 and taking the final run course record as well as the overall time.

It was Brett Jones who won the race outright however, in an excellent time 37:15, from Matt Cuzner (38:57) and Mark Simpson (39:32). Lou Basyoni took out the Women's race in 45:23 from Jasmine Foxlee (46:31) and Samantha Rampant (48:17).

Amongst the teams, it was "The Flames" who took out the competitive Mixed Teams category in 44:45.

Congratulations to all who participated in the race, which was held in a marvellous spirit of cooperative enjoyment. We are very sorry that some bikers in the Long Course found their bike leg extended thanks to a mischievous walker in the Aranda Bushland who turned a sign to face the wrong direction – and most grateful to the competitors who stopped and corrected the errant sign, thus saving the rest of the field considerable confusion and lost time.

Thank you all for your wonderful contributions – we look forward to seeing you again at future events. Full results are now published, along with some photos from the start/finish area.

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Overall Impressions

Perhaps there is no other event which offers you the opportunity to circumnavigate a whole city in an off road triathlon. Each leg is unique, and this is why the best thing is to do the whole lot. It is not designed to be easy or even possible; It basically connects all the biggest hills in Canberra, seemingly getting nastier as the race goes on.

This was my second attempt at solo. Two years ago I got lost on Mount Stromlo when faced with conflicting arrows from different events. Five hours later, dehydrated and depleted, I found my way to Lake Tuggeranong, the only place I knew on the course. Although friends encouraged me to keep going, I was only interested in food and sleep. This year was very different. Having lived in Canberra for 6 months I had made an effort to familiarize myself with the whole course. I even offered to mark out the Stromlo section just to erase any possibility of getting lost. Knowing the course is a big advantage. Even if it is well marked, just knowing where you are and where you are going takes a lot of stress out of the day. Plus, you can pace yourself better when you know what is coming up.

This year I was very lucky to have as my helper the great Trevor Fairhurst - 4 time winner and number 1 enthusiast of the event. Sadly Trev was unable to compete himself due to injury but wanted to come and help a solo. Trev was so organised and so focused that I never had time to feel sorry for myself. It was a one way express train with no getting off.

The final run - the best I felt all day!

Knowing how punishing the midday sun can be, I was ready to battle with heatstroke, dehydration, cramp and nausea. But a miracle happened - the sun never came out. Instead it was the rain and wind which we faced - preferable any day for the endurance athlete. This made the day a lot more bearable. Coming from an ultra running background, I am used to the mental challenge of ever increasing pain and fatigue. But the great thing about the Triple Tri is that just when you have had enough you reach transition and launch into something else. Having said that, my illusions that it would be plain sailing after the long run-swim-bike combo were well and truly shattered by the torturous hills of the last bike and beyond. I think for many soloists the long slog up Mt Stanley must be the time when they lose or find themselves. Although the last bike is the shortest, it is probably the steepest and most technically challenging. If you are not from a mtb background it is really just survival mode. For some reason I enjoy the long swim across Lake Burley Griffin. Even though this year it was quite choppy, it is just nice to get off your feet and slosh around in a liquid world for a good hour or so. Like most triathlons, most time is spent on the bike, but without a solid running base you will lose most of your advantage.

In some ways having 8 transitions is tough because it takes time for your body to adjust to moving in a different way. Usually when you come off the bike it takes 10 minutes or so to get your running legs working. In the second half of a swim or run I would feel more relaxed. But the advantage of changing frequently is that your muscles get a break. On hotter days the swim is always welcome and is an important opportunity to cool down.

Everyone will have their own motivation for taking on this challenge. Most likely your friends are not all doing it. There is some hunger inside you to see what you are capable of. For many people the idea of the solo challenge is too daunting, but I believe that this is just a mindset. When you get out there and try it you find that you are capable of more than you think. The harder the goal that we set for ourselves, the more satisfying it is to achieve.

The fulness of life lies in dreaming and manifesting the impossible dreams.
-Sri Chinmoy

Training

The general rule is that you can never do enough training. Everyone has time and energy limits. Generally I just do as much as I can, always trying to increase, but back off when I get too run down. I like training. It feels good. Having a big event is just the motivation that makes training happen. Canberra is a great place to train for triathlon. Loads of trails and bike paths and not many people. The lakes are usually fine for swimming too, although most people still seem to go the pool.

Nutrition

I am always paranoid about hitting the wall in a long event so I try to keep eating even when I do not feel like it. Once you run out of energy it is very difficult to recover. I used high5 isogels, baby food and high5 energy bars mostly. Baby food is perfect - no chewing needed and usually very natural and nutritious. The bike is the easiest time to eat but it is not always possible. The second and third rides start with long sections on the bike path and this is the time to eat and drink. When you hit the trails you often need both hands on the handlebars. The end of the second ride along Cooleman Ridge is another opportunity. Trev put a Bento Box on my bike which was great as it is easy to grab food. The best thing is have bars unwrapped and broken up already. I would try to eat something every hour plus have gels and electrolyte. It is worth stopping in the middle of the long swim to have a gel. I had one stuffed in the sleeve of my wetsuit and this was not uncomfortable.

by Sukhajata Cranfield

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Swim - The 80m course for the Junior Joyathon follows a straight line that is never more than 20 metres from the shore.

Cycle - The 4.7 km course heads north along the cycle path. At the intersection turn right, up the hill. Cross Garryowen Dr and turn right onto the cycle path. Follow the path south, across a carpark, before returning north to the bike compound. Complete two laps. Ride single file and keep to the left at all times.

Run - The course is a cross country course within the grassy expanse bordered by Garryowen Drive. After exiting the compound from the northern end the course immediately turns sharply right onto the grass, heads south, makes a loop around the play equipment, then returns northwards, crossing John Cardiff Close and then briefly joining the bike path before crossing the finish line.

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We are doing this again!!? It might be cold
Tho’ it never rains; So we’ve been told!
The fifth time we’ve entered. The team is antique.
And sadly, oh dear, the forecast is bleak.
Pack the raincoat and brolly and hope the kayak doesn’t leak.

Wipers on full throttle as we slide into Kalkite
Mist and rain – but wait! It’s getting light
Helen’s afloat and swims with the best
Jean’s off down the lake - (so far we’re blessed)
The rain has let up, the brolly is spent
Jean (the Machine) Stars! How she went!
Sue’s ready and waiting and dancing about
Transition is smooth, Sue’s off. There’s no doubt
She’s aiming to crush her time
From 2 thousand and nine
“The hill’s seemed to be less – the track more benign”
Her record is smashed and she’s nearly TOO quick
Peggy just makes transition from run to mud (thick)

Granite boulders wizz by and right on time
Peg rides the big dipper, tags Helen the flipper
Simmo the Supporter, brought the kayak around
So Jean can keep Helen from running aground
Hel sliced through the water. Her time? It is fab - ay!
And before she is dry, Jean’s near Hatchery Bay
(Oh joy - the rain - it is staying away)

But where are the other teams of the day?
The Quinn has gone AWOL, no Baldwin to play
No Fox Hunt this year-the Vixens home in the den
the Pankcake and the Stuffers? We do miss them
Foges, Sue and the knot of Bullfrog Croaks
are here for the race in the new ponds and the soaks
The “JARS” from Congo can’t stay away
The “Last Minute” boys are here making hay
“The Cougars Hunters” are having a punt
Are we the Cougars? (Hmm - just now the old girls are in front)!

Back to the story – Jeannie is fast
Peggy’s second ride is a blast
Sue’s crossing the river and bounds up the incline
While Sue’s running swiftly – (of age there’s no sign)
Peg’s washed off the mud, had a last stretch of the spine.
While waiting for Sue at Sawpit creek
We witness the Bullfrog’s crowd pleasing technique
Transition from daughter to dad comes with a kiss and embrace
Aaaawwww! A sweet moment of the race
And Dad’s speedy ride’s an impossible chase.

The last ride is long and it’s tough and its up
Its rutted and boggy and steep and a cow
“Abiding cheerfulness”-where are you now?
(It took a shortcut, straight down the Snowy
Avoiding the vertical mountain and plain where its blowy)
Nearly 3 hours later when Peggy emerges
The other girls, now well rested, are ready for surges
The last ride transcendence in style
Now it is Hel’s turn to swim the last mile.
The wind and the chop are starting to gather
The Divas Alina sees only foam and lather.

The tail wind assists and the following sea
Jeannie’s last paddle rushed along, “paddle paddle! Whoopee!”.
Well done Alan (from the UH and F Team)
The chase down the lake really made Jeannie beam.
But where are the Diva’s – the purple and red?
Surely they can’t have managed to slip ahead?
Alas for them, the choppy lake took its toll
But Sue wasn’t going to make it a stroll.

We finished in the rain just as we began
A wonderful day. Lots of fun, sweat and pain.
Would we do it again?

You bet!!
……

Huge thanks to the organisers, marshals, KNP staff, SES, land-owners, other teams and the solo athletes.

The Go Go Girls @50 +
Sue Archer
Helen Douglass
Jean Douglass
Peggy Douglass

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About the author:

Nirbhasa is from Ireland. He is an enthusiastic multi-day runner, having completed four times the Sri Chinmoy Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race - the longest race in the world.

Sri Chinmoy Running & Fitness Festival, Williamstown 2005 - 2010

2010

Thank-you for the great event on Sunday. It was well run as all Sri Chinmoy events are and the course, volunteers and facilities were excellent. - Kevin Mannix.

It was a really good event – well organized and the officials and volunteers were all friendly and so helpful - Gladys Woods

"Very, very impressed with the organisers... good spirit out there onthe course, great volunteers and nice to get freshly cooked pancakes at the finish." - Dontstop.
I was impressed by the level of organisation in general. The volunteers at the drinks stations were fantastic - really good to see smiling and encouraging folk along the way. A great atmosphere and a lot of fun. – LukeF
I was a participant in the half-marathon at Williamstown on Sunday May 30thand whilst it wasn't my first at this distance, it was my first Sri Chinmoy event and for me it was by far the most enjoyable. I'm not a huge fan of crowds and the logistics on race day, but with this event everything was so stress-free. I run purely for my own chill-out pleasure and absolutely loved the size of the event, the location and the delightful food afterwards. The apple crumble is worth it alone! The event had a wonderful, almost family atmosphere with so many people/clubs supporting each other along the course. Well done to a great event and I definitely want to do Sri Chinmoy events in the future. From a participant, I want to thank everyone who helped out from the cooking to the drink stations and the encouragement along the way as that's what makes the event so pleasurable for us and made me think that volunteering is something I would like to do in the future. I just wanted to pass on my thanks and gratitude to all involved in the Williamstown Running Festival - Lynne.

I have done a few Sri Chinmoy events in the past, but decided to come down to compete in the Marathon. A great event, well organised and the generosity of the volunteers out and about for the day made it a very stress-free environment. Thanks - Miranda Price

"Good morning for a run. Just a few drops of rain before the start,then the Sri Chinmoy spirit took over and it was fine"- Greybeard.

The event was very well run and I would like to thank Sri Chinmoy and the helpers for their efforts! I have been involved in cycle racing for some years and many events are not organised nearly as well. - Cam Hudson

Terrific atmosphere, great Sri Chinmoy organisation... a good morning all around. - Courtneylove

Another thanks for Sri Chinmoy and the friendly volunteers for putting on a great event. - Don Bob

Thanks so much for a great event (and for the pancake, banana and pumpkin soup!). Looking forward to participating in many more. - Colleen Miller

Thanks for a great event on Sunday. The organisation was first class, the volunteers & marshals all friendly and the food at the end was fantastic. The warm soup was wonderful for me after a long run - had two cups!! Cheers - Keith Fagg

"There was a little drizzle-but not worthy of calling rain so I'llmaintain that it never rains at Sri Chinmoy events."- Wombatouofhell

Great event as usual. - Jason M

Great effort by all volunteers, race organisers and everyone involved - and thanks again to all the support offered on course. – FitzCameron.

This was my first Half Marathon and I just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for the event it is very well run and very encouraging. Thanks again. - Dave Marks

Firstly, thank you for the excellent event that you put on last Sunday. As a marathon competitor, I found the aid stations outstanding and the level of support from Sri Chinmoy volunteers just wonderful! Very much appreciated especially on the later stages of the course. - Belinda

I loved this event. It was my first "small" marathon and I loved the ease of it - entry on the day, parking close the start and staying in my warm car until 1 minute before start, no congestion anywhere. I was really impressed with the organisation with all the different events going on at the same and no clashes anywhere. Heaps of aid stations with no congestion. This will definitely become a permanent fixture in my calendar. - Cjr

Very enjoyable run, though, and as usual, well organised. - Clairexx444

It still hasn't rained at a Sri Chinmoy event! I also learnt a great deal about myself not only during this marathon but also during the month as well. Not only on a running level but as a person as well. Thanks to everyone who was there on the day and I hope to see you all soon. - Dave

Another successful run at Williamstown! I do love that course, and thoroughly enjoy the event and an even bigger thank you for such a good day! - Rachel Bowerman.

Just wanted to say what a fantastic day our team from Ballarat had at the Williamstown run on May 30. This was my first attempt at the half marathon. Thanks again for a well organised event. Regards, Kay Hutchinson (520)

Thanks for a great day and well organized run on Sunday. - Bernadette Briglia

Thank you. I forgot to tell you how much I enjoyed the race and the atmosphere and will definitely be back. Cheers, - Kimbra

2008

I just would like to thank everyone involved in the successful running festival held at Williamstown on Sunday, 25th May. I was overwhelmed with everyone's warmth, friendliness and encouragement. Although I didn't run my best marathon time, it really didn't matter as I was made to feel very proud of my effort for just participating. Then to top it off, I was awarded 1st place in my age group and was made to feel very special by the organisers there. Once again, it was a well organised event from Sri Chinmoy and I look forward to many more runs with you. Many hugs and thanks .... Nicky

Just wanted to send a note to say thanks and well done on one of Melbourne Best Value for Money Fun Run. Seemed like a huge crowd this morning which you coped with very well and a great friendly atmosphere. Keep up the great work and look forward to my next event with you in July. Regards
Phil

Congratulations on a great event on Sunday at Williamstown, been in lots of fun runs now and we rated it second only to the Run for the
Kids. Well done again though on a great morning of running. Regards Sid Jage

Hello Sri Chinmoy,

Well done on a thoroughly enjoyable event yesterday morning. The course was terrific and allowed me to significantly improve on my previous result. Speaking of results, it's superb to see them available today, that's excellent. Thanks again for an excellent day. I look forward to the next local event. Kind regards, Tim

The race was great and the people were great. I will be doing more races run by you guys, as I found the atmosphere fantastic. Thanks again. Nicky

And a sample of comments from Coolrunning

It was great day. I particularly liked the apple crumble - especially with copious quantities of maple syrup on it! - J.

I thought it was perfect this morning when they quietly let us all know that we didn't need to stress out if we were still standing in a queue - the race wouldn't start without us. For that, the pancakes and everything else - thank you Sri Chinmoy!-Grey Beard

Food at the end was fantastic-Grat

Gotta hand it to those gentle people from Sri Chinmoy - they sure know how to run a nice friendly community event. Sri Chinmoy runs = peaceful good feelings.- Aura111

2007

To the fabulous organisers of Sunday's event,

Your event on Sunday was great. So well organised, great course, beautiful beachfront, loads of water stations, friendly faces, and a fantastic breaky. I am excited for the next Sri Chinmoy event i can enter, i will definitely be back for another of your races.

Thank you very much for such a great Sunday morning,

Bec

Hiya!

I just wanted to send a quick email to say.. congratulations on a great event. At 38yo I'm a beginner at competing. Taking baby steps at the moment, and with a little bit of running riding and cycling things are looking good. I am not one for running, but together with my personal trainer I was fit enough and comfortable enough to do my first ever fun run (albeit 4km).

I have attended and supported friends of mine in other running and triathlon events, and have seen a lot of the organisation they put in.. but I have to say you guys ROCK!!!..

Top quality, the food, the facilities were excellent. Keep up the great work, and looking forward to my next one...

Regards

Stan

To whom it may concern:

My son is aged 14, and I am aged 42 and we have been doing fun runs together now for 5 years . We have done YMCA runs (sun rise series), raced the Echuca Paddle Steamer, run the Olympic Dream & Start to Finish runs, but found we needed to do more runs.

In reading Runners World we found Sri Chinmoy had fun runs. We entered our 1st run at Williamstown in 2005 and found that Sri Chinmoy have the best run events, their friendly volunteers encourage all competitors, no waiting around for awards, very well organised events with great courses to run.
Once again thank you for your great events and we look forward to entering your next event for us .... keep up the great work.

Thanks

Greg
PS : The Pancakes are the best

As a first time Marathon Runner I wanted to pass on my thanks to all those involved with the Williamstown Fitness Festival.

I had run with Sri Chinmoy for the first time in 2006 at the Marybyrnong Fun Run and knew from that experience that this was the ideal group to tackle my fist Marathon.

The course was well laid out and sign posted. Those at the checkpoints, crossings, manning drink stations were wonderful. I can't count the number of times I received encouragement as I ran. It made the difference for sure.

Brad

Thank you for another great Sri Chinmoy event. See you at another one soon.

Sue

PS. Your pancakes are becoming very popular.

Dear Race Team,

Loved the event last weekend, was very well organised and a magnificent course.

Regards,
Shelli

Hey Folks,

I started running about 6 months ago and the event last Sunday was my first running event with Sri Chinmoy. I found the event extremely well organised. All the helpers/staff were understanding, thoughtful and helpful.

Well done!

I look forward to attending more of you races.

Emma

Hi All,

This is the second race I have done in Melbourne with Sri Chinmoy + I have done some of your triathlons in Canberra.

Another awesome effort by everyone on Sunday – thanks so much. Everyone is always really nice and encouraging and I think this rubs of on the entrants, as everyone is usually really encouraging to everyone.

Thanks again.

Chris

Thanks for putting us on the front page of this flyer, I think our pink singlet made us stand out a little. There were a team of seven women who ran the half marathon and apart from me no one had completed one before but with a lot of dedication, determination and training we all completed it successfully. The girls were all thrilled with themselves and with our average being 40 I think it was a brilliant effort, proving its never too late to start running.

Well done, might see you next year.

Regards

Michelle

Hi there,

Just a quick note to say thanks for the great organisation of the run on the 27th. It was a big day for me as I had never quite got to 10km before, (I really wanted a medal to show everyone I'd done it!!-maybe Ill have to pick up my speed next time - i think i was almost last!). I love the way in which your volunteers are earnestly encouraging at each point of the race. it really helps. The pancakes are great as well.

Thanks again,

Sara

I thought the organisers and volunteers did a fabulous job and will certainly be looking out for more Sri Chinmoy races in the future.

Casie

It really is a beautiful place to run. I love looking out to the sea and the Breakfast looked very well presented afterwards. I was very grateful I got out of bed after all.

Wombatoutofhell

Another great Sri Chinmoy event. In one sense I'm a happy camper, got a pb, 93:43, but couldn't break the 90 min barrier.

Superjacent

Well done to the organisers and volunteers - that was a great event.

Mick

Sri Chinmoy always do a great job and I love the social aspect of catching up with friends old and new at the events.

Courtlylove

My first Sri Chinmoy event was a pretty good one. They do a great job with the marking of the course, directing traffic and drink and food stations as well.

FIT PT

Made the pre-dawn trip down from the hills yesterday morning after scraping the ice off the windscreen, first decent frost for the year. As the sun rose, it was obvious there would not be a cloud in the sky, perfectly dialled up weather by the Sri Chinmoys.

Well done again Sri Chinmoy on the great organisation and a well run event. Will be back next year..... again.

Chilliman

2006

I have been a participant in quite a few of your events over the past few years and I have always found the enjoyment factor even better because of the beautiful nature of your volunteer staff. Today I ran the half marathon and struggled a bit but every time I went through a drink station or past one of your road volunteers there was always encouragement. It's not just the encouragement though - it's the grace with which it's given. Thank you so much - I look forward to seeing you all again at another of your events in the near future. Kindest Regards

Christine Scott

Another perfect Sri Chinmoy day - I hope the 'professional' event organisers come and see how they do it. Started on time - clear markings - fantastic food and drinks, great finish line. Wonderful - the organisers should be extremely proud.

Slim DJ

Yesterday was the first time that I have run a Sri Chinmoy event. I would like to congratulate the organisers for the event. Great support from officials on the course, plenty of drink stations, lots of signage with km's positions, and also everyone having a great time. Well Done!!! See you at your next event. Kind Regards,

Adam Heathcote

I wanted to pass on my thanks for another spectacular event. I have run in many different locations and cities and your event is one of the very best. This was my 9th marathon overall and I couldn't have hoped for a better day out. I particularly wanted to say thanks to the volunteers for their smiling faces and words of encouragement all along the course. You should all be commended on a fantastic effort. Again many thanks and I can't wait till next year.

Robert Virgona

I wanted to say how much I enjoyed the course for the run last Sunday.
It really was delightful. Thank you and the organisers for the delicious food you provided and all the hard work involved. See you at the next run. Kind regards

Judy Wines

This was the first Sri Chinmoy event that I have attended and I must say that I was very impressed! It was well organised and the pancakes were superb. Thanks to the volunteers for doing such a great job. I'll definitely be coming back for more. - Beki

Well done to everyone, I was very impressed with my first Sri Chinmoy event - great stuff and thanks to the organisers and volunteers!

Michael

What a glorious day. Perfect weather and the Sri Chinmoy people always put on a good event. Thanks to all the marshals and attendants

Morley

This is the biggest event on the Sri Chinmoy calendar & a real Melbourne favourite. What a terrific day (& the weather [Big Grin] ) they always put on

Stu Mac

Sri Chinmoy are renowned for putting on great events, and Sundays' was no exception. Plenty of aid stations, staffed with encouraging volunteers; accurate kilometre markings, a great finish-line atmosphere inside the stadium; and of course the post-race pancakes and apple crumble, all made for a great day. Well done!

David Criniti - Male Marathon Winner 2006 (2.41:33)

2005

Congratulations on a great day. I absolutely loved the new course. I did the 10k course. Everyone I talked to also were impressed. The pancakes as usual were fabulous. I heard very favourable comments on the marshalling on the courses. Thank you for a fantasic day.

Sue Nixon

Thank you very much for a great event. Perfect weather, perfect organisation, much improved race course, friendly helpers, great post-run catering. And compared with other events a reasonable entry fee which doesn't make one feel ripped off. Well done. I'll be back next year!

Thomas

A great event, first time on this event for me - a great course, really scenic, drink tables were good, friendly helpers, the whole event was well organised and great location and facilities - and pancakes at the end were the best! Thanks

Glen Stander

I would like to congratulate each and every one of your team for staging a fantastic event. This has to certainly go down as one of my best races on a fantastic course (ran a pb!). The services on offer were fantastic with the great massages and wonderful food on offer post race! Your events keep getting better and better which will keep me coming back! Keep up the fantastic work!

Nick Iliopoulos

Thanks you to all of the race officials, marshals, drinks people, caterers and the wonderful "Touch of Health" massage staff. As usuall you put on a terrific turn and I promise that injuries permitting I will be back again next year. I didn't PB but enjoyed the whole race from the band at the beginning to the terrific breakfast afterwards. Your organisation is an example to other race organisers of how things should be done. Keep up the terrific work. I look forward to seeing you with my kids at the next race at Como Landing.

Duncan Richardson

Myself & son have done a few of your races over the past few years, with Cameron winning a few underage races and this time an open event. I always talk highly of your organised races and there is no doubt that the Willi event is one of the best.
I hadn't completed the Half since 2000 and this years course was a vast improvement and one that you should fight to keep. Congratulations to the organisers and a big thank you to the volunteers.

My only comment regarding improvements would be the km signage, the HM we had km markers up to 10 and then 15, I think every km would have been great, but this is minor, and if you can 'bottle' the weather, keep it for next year...

Regards

Stuart & Cameron Macaulay

Overall, a great event, well organised and very warm and caring group of people running the event - I will be back for pancakes.

Eat Em

Great day, very well organised and the friendliest, most encouraging marshalls and drinks station helpers I've come across. My only complaint would be the lack of markers in the second half of the half.

Courlylove

The Sri Chimnoy chaps have done it again, taking good care of all the runners & getting most things pretty right. Their help would be appreciated down @ The Great Ocean Road next year.

LostBoy

I ran the half marathon and had a fantastic day. The event was so well organised with plenty of delicious food at the end. One request, please, please provide many more kilometre signs for the half marathoners. Let me reiterate however what a great day my son and I had - please keep that weather for next year!!!

Mark

A well organised event by the Sri Chinmoy Team made this a fantastic event that I am looking forward to already next year. Enjoyed the Applecrumble, pancake, soup, pancake and banana, yes in that order.

Chilliman

It is worth going to these runs for the post race feed alone, they always do a fantastic job.

Fish

As usual, a great event with terrific organisation and value for money. The volunteers, as at all Sri Chinmoy runs, were very helpful and encouraging. The 10km course was very fast and picturesque, probably one of the best around at the moment. Letâs hope you can secure it again next year.

Congratulations,

Ian.

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Leg 10 is a 1.2km swim, starting from Snowy River Beach and finishing at the beach adjacent to the public boat ramp at Creel Bay.

View and download this course on Garmin Connect.

Swimmers should arrive early at Creel Bay, to be ferried from here to Snowy River Beach for the start. The course is a direct line from Horseshoe Bay around Waste Point to the boat launching area at Creel Bay.

For detailed course descriptions and maps of other legs, select from the list below.

Leg 1	Swim 1.5 km	Course Description
Leg 2	Paddle 9 km	Course Description
Leg 3	Run 6 km	Course Description
Leg 4	Mountain Bike 8 km	Course Description
Leg 5	Swim 2.5 km	Course Description
Leg 6	Paddle 5km	Course Description
Leg 7	Mountain Bike 9 km	Course Description
Leg 8	Run 12.5 km	Course Description
Leg 9	Mountain Bike 42.8 km	Course Description
Leg 11	Paddle 9.5 km	Course Description
Leg 12	Run 5 km	Course Description

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The race commences with a 1.5 km swim, starting and finishing from the beach adjacent to the North Kalkite boat ramp.

sri_chinmoy_multisport_classic_leg1

View and download this course on Garmin Connect.

The course is triangular, passing around 2 swim buoys in a clockwise direction.

For detailed course descriptions and maps of other legs, select from the list below.

Leg 2	Paddle 9 km	Course Description
Leg 3	Run 6 km	Course Description
Leg 4	Mountain Bike 8 km	Course Description
Leg 5	Swim 2.5 km	Course Description
Leg 6	Paddle 5km	Course Description
Leg 7	Mountain Bike 9 km	Course Description
Leg 8	Run 12.5 km	Course Description
Leg 9	Mountain Bike 42.8 km	Course Description
Leg 10	Swim 1.2 km	Course Description
Leg 11	Paddle 9.5 km	Course Description
Leg 12	Run 5 km	Course Description

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The 1st paddle course covers two thirds of the length of the lake. Early in the morning the lake is generally placid, making for enjoyable and fast conditions. Note that paddlers MUST carry their own water or other replacement fluid.

sri_chinmoy_multisport_classic_leg2

View and download this course on Garmin Connect.

From the transition at North Kalkite boat ramp, paddle south past Kalkite township.

For most of the course your landmark to head for is the communication tower on the top of Jinderboine Hill, the highest point among the hills ahead of you.

Heading into Rushes Bay with the township of East Jindabyne on your right, look for the willow trees on the beach, which mark your finish and transition to the next leg.

For detailed course descriptions and maps of other legs, select from the list below.

Leg 1	Swim 1.5 km	Course Description
Leg 3	Run 6 km	Course Description
Leg 4	Mountain Bike 8 km	Course Description
Leg 5	Swim 2.5 km	Course Description
Leg 6	Paddle 5km	Course Description
Leg 7	Mountain Bike 9 km	Course Description
Leg 8	Run 12.5 km	Course Description
Leg 9	Mountain Bike 42.8 km	Course Description
Leg 10	Swim 1.2 km	Course Description
Leg 11	Paddle 9.5 km	Course Description
Leg 12	Run 5 km	Course Description

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The first run course has a bit of everything - cruising by the lake's edge, some climbing, panoramic views and genuine cross-country. Please note that runners MUST carry their own water or other replacement fluid.

View and download this course on Garmin Connect.

Start from the transition under the willows on the beach at Rushes Bay, East Jindabyne. Follow the concrete pedestrian path. Cross over the dirt road, then straight ahead onto a single track, which leads around in front of East Jindabyne. Look for a small single track leading off to the right, which leads around the top of the bay along the shoreline, then look for a 4WD track on the left, heading uphill.

Cross over the bitumen road and follow it to the right as far as it goes. After the end of the road, look for a faint single track leading to your left above the shoreline. Follow this track along the shoreline until it concludes, then turns to the LEFT, heading uphill. Turn right at the next fork onto a fainter grass track heading up towards the houses of Alpine Sands. Turn right at the next fork, heading down and up out of a gully. Turn right again in front of the houses, heading back into the trees and downhill all the way to a beach. Follow the shoreline across one rocky headland and then along another beach.

Look for the track heading up to the left at the end of this beach, into the bush. Follow this track down to another small inlet, cross to the left hand side of the beach, then turn hard right behind the tree onto the concrete path.

Turn left at the fork in the concrete path, in front of the swings, then veer right off the concrete path immediately after the lookout on your right, onto a grass track leading into the bush. Follow this track below the houses, along a short levee and briefly (for a few metres) back onto concrete. Turn right after the small sewage pump-out box onto a narrow dirt track below the houses, then left at the next fork (don't head down to the beach!)

Nearing the water, join with a trail following the shoreline around to the left. Just before you reach the third beach, turn left at a fork onto a track heading uphill. Turn left at the 4WD track and follow up the sharp hill to the transition near the inersection of Echidna Place and Rainbow Dr.

For detailed course descriptions and maps of other legs, select from the list below.

Leg 1	Swim 1.5 km	Course Description
Leg 2	Paddle 9 km	Course Description
Leg 4	Mountain Bike 8 km	Course Description
Leg 5	Swim 2.5 km	Course Description
Leg 6	Paddle 5km	Course Description
Leg 7	Mountain Bike 9 km	Course Description
Leg 8	Run 12.5 km	Course Description
Leg 9	Mountain Bike 42.8 km	Course Description
Leg 10	Swim 1.2 km	Course Description
Leg 11	Paddle 9.5 km	Course Description
Leg 12	Run 5 km	Course Description

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The 2nd swim leg commences from the transition area just above the beach at South Tyrolean Cove.

View and download this course on Garmin Connect.

Head out around the rocky point to your left as you swim out from the beach. Turn to your left (south), keeping the first swim buoy to your left shoulder. After this, keep all swim buoys to your right shoulder.

Enter Copper Tom Reach, and pass the 2nd, 3rd and 4th swim buoys, now swimming back towards the north.

As you pass around the headland to your left, pass two final buoys, keeping both to your right shoulder, and cross the rope line of floats. Head in to the finish on the beach at The Haven.

For detailed course descriptions and maps of other legs, select from the list below.

Leg 1	Swim 1.5 km	Course Description
Leg 2	Paddle 9 km	Course Description
Leg 3	Run 6 km	Course Description
Leg 4	Mountain Bike 8 km	Course Description
Leg 6	Paddle 5km	Course Description
Leg 7	Mountain Bike 9 km	Course Description
Leg 8	Run 12.5 km	Course Description
Leg 9	Mountain Bike 42.8 km	Course Description
Leg 10	Swim 1.2 km	Course Description
Leg 11	Paddle 9.5 km	Course Description
Leg 12	Run 5 km	Course Description

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The first mountain bike course is by far the most technically demanding leg of the whole event. Only experienced and proficient mountain bikers should attempt this course. It is strongly advised that athletes familiarise themselves with the course prior to the race. Please note that cyclists MUST carry their own water or other replacement fluid.

View and download this course on Garmin Connect.

Although 8 kilometres does not sound a long way on a bike, the majority of the course is on narrow single tracks, for the most part over steep and rocky terrain. This leg is not for the faint-hearted, the inexperienced or the untrained.

The course commences at the transition area near the intersection fo Echidna Place and Rainbow Dr. Look for the single track heading into the bushes and proceed along this track.

Follow this track mostly up and also down. Turn left at the first main junction, heading up hill. This leads through several wide switch backs up the hill, bringing nearly to the top of the hill. Cross over the 4WD track and head straight onto the single track on the other side, named "Knights in Shining Armour," then take the next fork to your left onto "Huff 'n Puff."

This track starts to switchback downhill, with the main bitumen road (Kosciuszko Rd) below you. Your track almost joins a larger 4WD track heading downhill, but switches back again one metre before joining it and continues through a series of broad switchbacks heading down.

You are now below the level of Kosciuszko Rd. Look out for snakes! Continue straight and the left onto the "Centre Link" trail, which finally brings up out onto a 4WD road, the final 100 metres of which down to Mill Inlet is 2-way traffic, so be alert for bikes coming towards you.

From Mill Inlet, continue up the 4WD track. At the top of this track, head straight onto a single track heading up onto the ridge before you reach Kosciuszko Rd. Thsi track turns right and starts to loop back around towards the lake. You are now on the return leg of your journey.

Turn left at the next fork onto "She'll be Apples," which eventually becomes "Felicity." This track then endures a steep, rocky climb to the top of Mill Hill. The power lines at the top mark the beginning of a spectacular descent, with great views across the lake to Jindabyne, all the way around and down to Mill Inlet.

At Mill Inlet, turn to your left to rejoin the 2-way traffic, though this time you are heading up and the cyclists coming towards you are coming downhill. Veer left then onto "Julio's" track and continue straight ahead.

Look for the left hand turn at Pole Number 12 onto "Huff 'n Puff." Folow this up through some switchbacks until you join the deluxe "Mill Creek Track." Continue around the flank of the ridge with the town directly on your left.

A well-earned downhill run brings you home. There is one fork a few hundred metres from the finish, where you will take the right hand option. Take care coming into the big ditch leading into the transition!

For detailed course descriptions and maps of other legs, select from the list below.

Leg 1	Swim 1.5 km	Course Description
Leg 2	Paddle 9 km	Course Description
Leg 3	Run 6 km	Course Description
Leg 5	Swim 2.5 km	Course Description
Leg 6	Paddle 5km	Course Description
Leg 7	Mountain Bike 9 km	Course Description
Leg 8	Run 12.5 km	Course Description
Leg 9	Mountain Bike 42.8 km	Course Description
Leg 10	Swim 1.2 km	Course Description
Leg 11	Paddle 9.5 km	Course Description
Leg 12	Run 5 km	Course Description

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The middle paddle is the shortest, and under good conditions should be the easiest. But look out for power-boats, and the potential for a strong head-wind! Note that paddlers MUST carry their own water or other replacement fluid.

View and download this course on Garmin Connect.

Easing out from the beach at The Haven, round the headland to your left and head north.

Aim straight for Cub Island, which you will pass and immediately turn to your left. Continue now heading west, passing Lion Island. Cotntinuuing west you will arrive into Wolondibby Inlet, passing Curiosity Rocks as you enter to the transition point.

For detailed course descriptions and maps of other legs, select from the list below.

Leg 1	Swim 1.5 km	Course Description
Leg 2	Paddle 9 km	Course Description
Leg 3	Run 6 km	Course Description
Leg 4	Mountain Bike 8 km	Course Description
Leg 5	Swim 2.5 km	Course Description
Leg 7	Mountain Bike 9 km	Course Description
Leg 8	Run 12.5 km	Course Description
Leg 9	Mountain Bike 42.8 km	Course Description
Leg 10	Swim 1.2 km	Course Description
Leg 11	Paddle 9.5 km	Course Description
Leg 12	Run 5 km	Course Description