XCR Race 3 Report from Bruce Davie and Dave Martini
There was a full complement of challenges to be faced at St. Anne’s Bendigo, a winery that has hosted tough AV cross-country races for the last several years. We had a few late scratchings but still managed to field full open teams. Those who made it safely out to Bendigo were treated to a real Victorian winter’s day (admittedly in the last weekend of Autumn) as sun gave way to clouds, briefly heavy rain, and then sun again. A course with steep hills, grassy slopes, sharp turns, and a little mud and gravel, posed a tough question for those who’d brought their spikes: what shoes to wear? The fact that our two fastest runners on the day wore spikes suggests they made the right call. Trails shoes were a popular option while some just hoped for the best in their road racing flats.
Josh Llano-Machado had a solid run in his first race back from a hip niggle, running strongly but more importantly running without discomfort and pulling up after his 5km with no ill effects. Aya Fukunaga also ran well in the 5km short course option as part of the red and black army before she needed to leave for other engagements. She provided valuable insight into course conditions for those running the 8km. The rainfall just before the men’s long race was enough to sway the argument in favour of spikes.
In the 8km events our fastest male and female both share the same surname with the spike-shoed Alan Colman (32:27) and Annabelle (31:32) taking the honours. Annabelle was 15th among open women, a cracking performance. The Div 3 Men finished 12th in team standings and Div 2 Women finished 4th in team standings. Special mention also to Gus Llano who was 5th Old Xavs male earning himself a place in his first Old Xavs’ Men’s ‘top team’ (Div 3). It was good to see Julie Pearsons (39:16) returning to racing after a few years’ absence and ensuring we had a full women’s team.
The ready availability of some super-local wine for post-race refreshments was an opportunity too good to pass up.
