Mark Thompson took out both the cup for first up the hill and winners sash on handicap during the Stawell and Ararat Cross Country Clubs ‘Conqueror of the Hill’ on Sunday. Mark seemed to keep the same pace as he climbed up One Tree Hill in Ararat. Gabe, who followed Mark up the Hill said he never appeared to slow his pace running up the hill.

This was Mark's second attempt at the hill climb race with the club, last year the proud father pushed his children in a pram up the hill. Mark has endured some injuries this year, but this race filled him with confidence. Mark thanked the many volunteers in the club that put much time in each week to put on great runs.

Mark's wife Tessa took out third place joining him on the podium, with Adrian coming in second. Ararat local Erica joined the club as an invitational runner for the race and was the first female up the hill. It was great to have Erica join this week and encourage anyone to come and give it a go.

Next race with this club will be on Sunday 15th May on SawPit Flat road in Ararat Hills, see clubs facebook for details. Next week the club encourages all to be involved in the Stawell Mothers Day Classic at North Park.