The Melbourne Uni distance squad celebrated the end of a successful cross country season last Sunday, the 4th of October.

The afternoon kicked off unofficially with a number of MUAC stalwarts lining up at the track to race a grueling mile. The race was run under challenging conditions, with a number of participants forgoing the traditional blue and white and taking to the track in kaftans, tri-gear and tube socks. Fortunately their well-honed hydration tactics got them through.

Celebrations continued with ‘Rockstar’ ten pin bowling, followed by dinner at the Standard in Fitzroy. Unofficial awards were handed out; many a testament to Hamish’s ability to free associate. (There’s no shame in admitting you don’t understand yours – just ask Hamish to elaborate.)

Official awards

In addition to keeping us inspired and motivated in her role as Women’s Captain, Sophie took out the fabled MUAC Golden Shoe prize. Throughout the XC season, points are accumulated based on the order in which athletes finish, with bonus points for podium and top 10 finishes, supplying volunteers, and running all races in the season. Congratulations Sophie!

The most improved awards went to Matt Irons and Kate Scarlett. Best fresher awards went to Charlie Sheldon and Sarah Emons, who have both had excellent first seasons with the club and clocked up particularly impressive efforts in the Burnley half-marathon. No doubt they’ll continue going from strength to strength next year. Sarah was also part of the Women’s Div 1 Team at the Tan Relays, together with Sophie Barker, Kate Scarlett and Charlotte Curnow. The ladies flew around the hallowed Tan track, to come in 3rd place, taking out the award for Best Performance of the year.

Special thanks

Credit should go to our winter manager, Dave Paroissien, who made sure we were all entered, and came up with the inspired idea of organizing buses to get us to Ballarat and Geelong.

A heartfelt thanks to our coach, the one and only Tony Brain, under whose guidance we have had such a successful season. Many of us have scored PB’s, but more importantly we’ve enjoyed training, racing and seeing our running improve.

Well done everyone. We’ve got summer track racing coming up, then we get to do it all again!

BOING!

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