CRISP but clear morning conditions greeted an enthusiastic field for the Warrnambool Athletic Club’s 10-kilometre handicap on Sunday.
As south-west runners prepare for the annual half-marathon in August, the out-and-back rail trail course from Jetty Flat provided the perfect stage for a test of fitness.
More than 60 runners and 10 walkers contested the event, which was the fourth instalment on the athletic club’s winter series calendar.
Warrnambool entrant Danielle Kane won the top handicap prize with a time of 45 minutes and 25 seconds, closely followed by Kate Ewing and Pat O’Keefe.
Clinton Hall set a cracking pace to clock the fastest time of 33.13, while Ella Gill was the fastest female with a time of 38.48.
Athletic club spokeswoman Tracey Kol said it was a successful morning.
“It was a perfect day for the 10-kilometre handicap,” Kol said.
“We had great numbers of new runners.”
After the race, club president and keen long-distance runner John Keats hosted a seminar for beginners.
“It was a comprehensive seminar covering techniques and training tips for those newly introduced to running,” Kol said. The next Warrnambool club run is scheduled for June 3.
The eight-kilometre cross-country course was initially set at Tower Hill but has been moved to Albert Park in Warrnambool.
Competitors can meet at the Warrnambool Football Club car park at 10am.
