On October 12, 2023, runners faced challenging conditions during Goulburn’s second half-marathon, where gusts of wind reached up to 60km/h. Despite the weather, participants from across New South Wales showed remarkable determination, navigating the Wollondilly River walking track, which served as a picturesque backdrop for the event.
Race director Jack Green noted that while the winds made the race more difficult, it still attracted a strong turnout. He remarked, “Normally with these events, 15 to 20 per cent of people who sign up don’t show up on the day. For this one, we had only two per cent drop out of the event.” This low dropout rate indicated a significant commitment from the runners, despite slightly fewer registrations compared to the inaugural event held in May.
Local Pride and Strong Competition
The event saw nearly 30 per cent of participants hailing from the Goulburn district, with others arriving from Sydney, Canberra, Bungendore, the Southern Highlands, and Cootamundra. Race categories included a 10km, 5km, and a 2km Family Dash, catering to various skill levels.
In the competitive half-marathon, local runner Jonathan Moore defended his title, finishing as the male champion with a time of 01:16:34. He was followed by fellow Goulburn resident Cameron Roberts, who secured second place with a time of 01:18:35. In the female division, Amy Craig took third place, completing the race in 01:43:11.
Despite the harsh weather, the atmosphere remained vibrant, with enthusiastic crowds lining the track to support the athletes. Volunteers played a crucial role, particularly at the Event Village, where they had to take down a marquee to prevent it from blowing away, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all.
Post-Race Celebrations and Future Events
After the race, participants were treated to refreshments and relaxation options. Vishal Oberoi and his team from Cafe 5911 arrived early to provide complimentary iced teas for finishers, while Blissd Goulburn offered free massages to help runners recover from the demanding course.
Looking ahead, Jack Green confirmed that Race Hub Australia plans to host two events in Goulburn again next year, with specific dates yet to be announced. The team is also preparing for the inaugural Albury Running Festival scheduled for October 19, 2023.
This half-marathon not only showcased the resilience of the participants but also highlighted the strong community spirit in Goulburn. With dedicated volunteers, enthusiastic spectators, and committed runners, the event was a testament to the enduring appeal of competitive running, even in challenging conditions.
