Fine weather, perfect course conditions and Freddo Frog chocolates helped make the 12th running of the Mount Vernon Grand Traverse the most successful to date with a record turn-out of 175 competitors throughout the three events.
Sam Hansby headed home the largest ever field of 79 runners in the Grand Traverse with a time of 1hr 17min 30 sec. followed by Billy Hebberd and Dave Grono. Annabelle Latz crossed the line to claim her third successive women’s title in 1hr 30min 41sec. Robyn Deane and Anna McDermid rounded out the top three places.
In the 11km Fun Run/Walk, Travis Haymes took overall line honours in 57min 08sec. ahead of Ryan Lock and Ashley Toms. Rebecca Lawrence missed the women’s race record by just 10 seconds finishing in a time of 1hr 02min 39sec. followed by Matilde Folis and Lisa Johnston.
The Kids Challenge was won by Finley Neilson in 10min 07sec. just ahead of Connor Pugh and Stella Roberts who was the first girl to finish. Stella’s time was 10min 56sec.
A big thanks thanks to all competitors, spectators, volunteers, marshals, tail-end Charlie’s and sponsors for making the event a huge success.
Full Results Michelle’s Photos David’s Photos
Read the Marlborough Express article here