Running Wild Race Report

Event: Kedumba short course (10km / 21km)

Date: 22 October 2017

Like earlier races this year, the Kedumba half marathon event had attracted some well-known speedsters to line up for a crack at this brutish course. Both the short and long events ensure that no person’s quadriceps leave the day feeling anything other than jelly-like. Runners in the half-marathon are confronted with approximately 800 metres elevation whilst the 10km racers get no respite with some of the steepest parts of the Kedumba track featuring in the shorter race.

The 10km race was a close affair with Cheryl Webb gutsing it out to claim first place ahead of Katherine Costello only 30 seconds behind in second. It’s worth noting that Katherine is in terrific form and was backing up from having won the Hume and Hovell 100km event only seven days prior. Kellie Gibson in third place rounded out the podium in the ladies 10km race.

The men’s 10km race saw a couple of more experienced runners lead the way – and in smart time too. Wes Gibson made it a successful morning for the Gibson’s, with a winning time of 42:50 ahead of Gary Howard in second and Adam Brock claiming third place.

As the 10km racers turn to retrace their steps and start the climb back to the old Queen Victoria Hospital and the finish line, the half-marathon competitors continue to plunge down into the Jamison Valley. Once in the valley, runners are treated to spectacular views of Mt. Solitary and Kings Tableland plateau. After a short creek crossing at the turnaround point, competitors are then confronted with the gruelling climb that makes this event so special. A breakaway group of four were comfortably ahead of the field at the half-way mark, and with a relentless climb to confront it was still anyone’s guess as to who could grind it out the longest to hang on for a strong finish.

Jackson Sharp proved the standout amongst a high-class field on this occasion. Jackson held on for first in 1:29:48 – less than 30 seconds away from Andrew Lee’s course record. The first three men across the line were separated by not-more than three minutes. Last year’s winner Mark Green had to settle for second place but was made to work hard all the way to the finish with Loughlinn Kennedy tearing it up behind him for third only eight seconds in arrears.

The ladies race also saw a close call on a course record. Jasmine Sargeant (1:45:00) was less than a minute from breaking the half marathon record held by Marnie Ponton. Jasmine continues to improve and to show that she can run fast on a variety of courses – and was also the only runner to finish under 2 hours. Jessica Kite claimed second place ahead of Karen McMorrow only 90 seconds further back in third.

Congratulations to all of the winners and place getters. Furthermore, huge congratulations to all who participated in the Kedumba event. This is a genuinely tough course and just having a go is a worthy and serious undertaking. It’s also worth mentioning that there was not one DNF registered this year. Well done everyone!

All podium finishers receive a RW gift voucher that can be redeemed at either Summit Gear in Katoomba or Blue Mountains Running Company in Glenbrook. Thanks to both stores for being such wonderful supporters of RW.

The Kedumba event presents the race organisers with unique logistical challenges – most notably parking. A special mention of gratitude must go again to our volunteers for helping this year’s event proceed without incident. RW also appreciates everyone’s effort to car pool where possible and for working with volunteers to help things flow smoothly.

Additional thanks and appreciation goes the way of those that make Running Wild races the best value for money on the globe….namely:

  • Lucas Trihey and his team from Event Safety Services who offer tremendous support with their first aid service, knowledge and experience;
  • Peter and Simona from Snax on Trax are amongst the first to arrive and last to leave to ensure everyone gets their fill of pre-race coffee and post-race nutrition;
  • The Glenbrook Greengrocer for supplying fruit for every event;
  • Chris and the team at XThomas photography for capturing all the action;
  • Murray and the team at Tempus Sports Timing for accurate race times and results;
  • Blue Mountains City Council;
  • NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service;
  • WaterNSW; and
  • Department of Lands.

The next event – the Narrowneck night race – is arguably the most popular RW event on the calendar – and as a result is already sold out!!

PLEASE NOTE: There is a mandatory gear list for the Narrowneck race and registration for the event takes place at the Katoomba Sports and Aquatic Centre (between 5 – 6.20pm). Runners will be transported to the starting area by shuttle buses. There is NO PARKING available at the race start/finish area.

See you all at Narrowneck on 18 November.

 

Running Wild Membership

Don’t forget that you can become a Running Wild member, and by doing so you could potentially save more than $100 on race registrations in one season alone!

It’s worth remembering that RW is a not-for-profit organisation whose objective is to organise excellent trail-running events that cater for all levels of runner. Our events are the best way to meet a wonderful group of like-minded people, as well as enjoy some of the most stunning trails in the Blue Mountains. Annual membership is only $40 and you can register online.

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