04 Nov Lake Awoonga Adventure Race back bigger than ever
144 competitors, 40 more than last year, biked, ran, and kayaked/swam their way through the 2021 Lake Awoonga Adventure Race last month.
The competition is split into a competitive division, which includes a 7.4km trail bike ride, a 2.8km trail run, 1km kayak or 500m swim, a 2.8km trail run and finally a 1.25km bike ride, and a novice division, teams of two, who complete a 1.25 bike ride, 1.3km kayak leg, a 2.8km trail run and finally a 1.25km bike ride.
The fastest competitor completed the course in 52.06 minutes, while the fastest novice team finished in 32.31 minutes, with the youngest competitor being 10 and the oldest 74.
Association Secretary Melanie Achilles said the event, which was unique to our region, was designed to bring people with an appetite for adventure to Benaraby to enjoy “what our area has to offer”.
“What’s important to us is that people get out and enjoy the outdoors, push themselves and have fun with their families and friends,” she said.
“The positive energy each competitor brought to this year’s event made for such a fantastic atmosphere on the day, so thank you to everyone who took part.
“It makes all the time and energy put into the planning of the event so worthwhile.”
Melanie said the association would also like to thank event partner Gladstone Area Water Board, and sponsors Coolwaters Outdoor and Gladstone Regional Council.
“Without GAWB and our sponsors the event would not be possible, so we thank them for their continued support,” she said.
Established in 1955, the Benaraby Progress Association is a not-for-profit organisation that organises weekly old time/ new vogue dances, Christmas Ham Wheels and community garage sales.
Meetings are held from 7pm on the third Thursday of the month at the association’s hall at 48845 Bruce Highway, Benaraby, and everyone is welcome to attend.
In conjunction with Woodfordia Inc., the team behind the Woodford Folk Festival, the association is hosting a Festival of Small Halls on November 13 at the Benaraby Progress Hall from 6:30pm.
For more information contact the association’s Secretary on 0413 004 580 or visit the Benaraby Profess Association and Hall Facebook Page.
Photos courtesy of Hayley Bracewell Photography
