The Sri Chinmoy Multi-Sport Classic is a splendid celebration in a magical location. The 9th running of this epic event showcased rare athleticism, dauntless determination, high-spirited enthusiasm and smiles aplenty.
Congratulations to all who took part as Solo Athletes, relay team members, officials and helpers in any capacity, all combining as an orchestra in a sporting symphony both marvellous and memorable.
Race of the day belongs to Tim Boote, who came in 8th outright amongst all the teams and set a new Course Record for Solo Athletes (over the post-2007 course) of 10:08:53. Tim exuded calm and focus throughout, seeming as fresh at the finish line as he had for the 6.45am start from Kalkite – an exceptional sporting performance from a gracious winner.
Graham Hammell (11:07:54) and Cameron Darragh (11:28:29) were also magnificent in conquering such an enormous feat of endurance, strength, skill and inner fortitude.
Quickest team were the former record holders (from 2010) “Get Stuffed” (James Crook, David Coward, Jarrod Crosby and Danny Wright), whose combined time of 8:40:36 proved 32 minutes faster than the field.
New records were established for various legs including Joe Andrews’ 23:38 for the 2nd paddle; Laura Marshall’s 32:48 and Danny Wright’s 24:27 for the 2nd bike; and Steve Ward’s 17:20 for the 3rd swim.
Our deep gratitude goes to Andrew Miller (Kosciuszko National Park); Jenny Crowe (Snowy Hydro); Nipun Patterson; June Westwood; Les Threlfo and the Volunteer Marine Rescue (NSW); Craig Stonestreet & Paul Gardiner (MTB tracks); Rick Scott (Snowy River Shire Council); Aiden Machin (sweep MTB); Tim Davoli & Soren Netz (paddle support); Sam Morabito (NSW Police); Karl Brough (NSW Roads & Maritime Service); Tom Roberts (Sports Medicine Australia); special guest helpers Mr Lee, Sue & Duy; “My Rainbow-Dreams” cafe; and Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team volunteers from London, Bucharest, Ulan Baatar, Auckland, Brisbane, Melbourne and Canberra.
A fine photo album from around the transitions captures multifarious moods and memories of the day.
