Well done to all runners, coming out to take on the challenge of getting to the top of One Tree Hill. For 2nd year in a row Mark Thompson took out the 17th running of the Conqueror of the Hill 3km Handicap in chilly conditions. 

The club had good turnout in numbers for todays race. Track markers gave runners a flat 1km part to run before climbing up the next 2km to the top of One Tree Hill.  Mark let Paul pace him up a majority of the hill before the last challenge to the finish line. Only 9 second split the two runners on the finish line, with Mark’s time of 15’ 13” this was 28 seconds faster than last year’s attempt. Paul Fenn’s time of 15’22” was only one second of his 2015 winning time, which shows how good of form he is currently in.  “Fenny is in great form now, when I run against him on the flat, he out runs me in the end. Today I stayed with him and took on the challenge in the end.” said Thompson during presentations. The times on the day did not beat Ash Cowens track record time of 13’55”, but Ash was in his teens when the record was made.

Fastest Female up the Hill was Helen McPherson in time of 23’13”. Helen is on the verge of completing her first marathon at Great Ocean Road in few weeks. Her training has put her in great form in tackling the hill which will help for the undulating coast line of the Great Ocean Road. Good luck HELEN 👏👏👏

What was fantastic to see was the support from the whole club cheering all runners over the finish line, each runner able to relax at the top and take in the views, which the weather although was chilly the sky was clear. 

Club’s Life member Stephen Baird sponsors this challenging race, and presents a cup for the first up the hill. “I am proud to add another trophy to the collection thanks to Stephen. I was proud of last year’s achievement and equally as proud today” remarked Mark. 

 Once handicaps were applied Mark Thompson was also announced the winner. Mark was surprised to get the win so soon after taking out the first race for the season. Taking out he minor placings was Paul Fenn in 2nd only 50 seconds behind the winner, while 15 second after Adrian Van Raaphorst claimed 3rd, who is always strong on these hills around Ararat.