Vetline ISSUE: VOL 38 No. 3 OCTOBER 2020 in this issue: > ANZ Road Relay Championships > National COVID X-Country ChallengeOfficial magazine of New Zealand and Oceania Masters Athletics > IAU 6hr Virtual Global Solidarity RunISSN 1173 - 1265
Jason Baillie (Don Greg Racing Stables), Dave Kettles (Wgtn Scottish), Ian Graham (Wgtn Scottish), PHOTO: Sharon WrayAdrian Lysaght (Lake City) at the NZ Road Relay championships Official Magazine of New Zealand and Oceania Masters Athletics FOUNDED IN 1970 Cover Photo Vetline ISSUE: VOL 38 No. 3 OCTOBER 2020 in this issue: > ANZ Road Relay Championships > National COVID X-Country Challenge David Anstiss AKL M70 in the Long Bay Cross Country - 27 June 2020 Official magazine of New Zealand and Oceania Masters Athletics > IAU 6hr Virtual Global Solidarity Run Photo - Alisha Lovrich Inside Back Cover Tricia Sloan guides Maria Williams 3rd W50 5km in the Wellington Road Champs Photo - Sharon Wray Back Cover Nina Preston WHAC W35, waves as she runs past in the NZ Road Relay championships Photo - Sharon Wray ISSN 1173 - 1265
CONTENTSDave Wilson and Emma Basset at the NZ Road Relay championships PHOTO: Sharon WrayREGULARS ARTICLESPresident’s Report 3 2020 Athletics NZ Road Relay Championships Michael Wray 6Committees / Contacts 4 2020 Worldwide Virtual Masters Challenge Lester Laughton 10Calendar 44 Virtual Masters Challenge - Additional Thoughts Laini Inivale/Noni Callendar 11 Obituary - Bruce McPhail Derek Shaw/Arthur Grayburn 12 Obituary - Eric De Latour Fay Riley 13NEWS Obituary - Ron Stevens PeterCoughlan 14 Who is Killian Jornet? George White 16Auckland Murray Free 30 IAU 6 Hour Virtual Global Solidarity Run Michael Wray 17Taranaki Murray Free 30 Obituary - Neil Fleming Judy Chandler 19Waikato/BOP Murray Clarkson 31 Track, American Style John Campbell 20Taranaki Vicky Jones 32Tasman Derek Shaw 34 Thrower Profile: Tania Hodges Laini Inivale 23Wellington Michael Wray 36 Racing Smarts George White 24Canterbury Andrew Stark 38 Osteitis Pubis Margaret Saunders 25Otago John Stinson 39 Practising What I Preach Ian Carter 26Hawke’s Bay/Gisborne Maurice Callaghan 40 National COVID Cross Country Challenge 2020 Graeme Lear 28Southland Dwight Grieve 41 Coaching Corner Mike Weddell 40 Vetline - October 2020 1
Ngauruhoe PHOTO: courtesy of Laini Inivale EDITOR & ADVERTISING REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS PUBLISHER John Campbell John Stinson Mike Weddell New Zealand Association of Masters Athletics Inc. john39296@gmail.com Ian Carter Lynne Schickert www.nzmastersathletics.org.nz Bryan Thomas Derek Shaw ASSISTANT EDITOR George White Dwight Grieve PRINTERS Derek Shaw Andrew Stark Wilma Perkins PO Box 602 Michael Wray Jen Fee Nelson 7040 Vicky Jones Dave Couper 03 548 7537 Judith Stewart Murray Clarkson 03 548 7535 fax nikau@ts.co.nz REGULAR PHOTOGRAPHERS NEW ZEALAND VETLINE Sharon Wray Is published quarterly in January, April, July and October. GRAPHIC DESIGN Derek Shaw The deadline for material is the first day of the preceding month. All advertising and letters to be sent to the Editor and all articles, photos John Campbell and other material to be sent to the Assistant Editor. john39296@gmail.com MAILING LIST Please advise immediately, DISCLAIMER changes of address to - Opinions and comments printed in Vetline are those of the author Andrew Stark and not necessarily those of the publisher. Tel: 03 338 0516 aws.resources@xtra.co.nz NZMA is a member of World Masters Athletics (WMA) Oceania Association of Masters Athletics (OMA) Council of Athletics New Zealand (ANZ)2 Vetline - October 2020
EditorialPresident’s Reportby ANDREW STARK - NZMA PresidentWhat an interesting winter we have had! Across the country, several Athletics NZCOVID-19 has certainly changed the way Centres are also finding it difficult to findthe world operates and will do for some time. volunteers to run the sport. What is becomingNumerous local and national events had to be evident is that Masters Centres that have apostponed or cancelled during the past few close working relationship with the local ANZmonths. The NZ Cross Country Championships Centre can more effectively host our events.in Dunedin went ahead without Auckland, A challenge going forward for NZMA is to make sure the relationship between bothso were relegated to a ‘challenge’ event. The groups is enhanced, so that the ANZ CentreNZ Road Relay Champioships went ahead helps us organise our events...a team effort.in Feilding on 3 October and the NZ RoadChampionships in Auckland has been scheduled This season the South Island T&Ffor the first weekend in November. Let’s hope championships are being held in Dunedinthat goes ahead as planned. and I suspect several North Islanders will attend. This meeting models what started inOver the past few seasons, several ‘stand Canterbury several years ago. The master’salone’ Masters Centres have struggled to find champs will be held within a combined eventspeople to run their organisation. The challenge and normal interclub meeting. This is the waythen translates to which Master’s Centres are of the future.actually capable of organizing / hosting our No doubt many of you will be helping officiatetrack and field events. This season we have at your local Centre. On behalf of all athletes,no North Island T&F Championships, which thank you for all you do. Our sport would nothighlights this issue. We need to start thinking survive if it were not for masters involvement.about where it can be held next year. Good luck to you all for the season ahead.Hokitika PHOTO: courtesy of Laini Inivale Vetline - October 2020 3
Committees / ContactsCentre Committees Centre Committees District Contacts NZMA BoardNorthland Wellington Northland Andrew Stark PresidentJudith Stewart President Michael Wray President Len Field 12 Highcrest Heights9 Karanui Road 7 Navigation Drive, Whitby 5 Johnson Road WestmorlandR D 1 Kamo 04 234 7972 Kawakawa 0210 Christchurch 8025Whangarei 09 404 0989 03 338 0516 michaelwray@xtra.co.nz021 215 1508 aws.resources@xtra.co.nzjudithtstewart@gmail.com Albert Van Veen Secretary Margaret Crooke 95 Kamahi Street 1236 State Highway 10 Michael Wray Vice PresidentLucy Andrews Treasurer Stokes Valley RD3 Kerikeri 0293 7 Navigation Drive, Whitby027 397 639 Lower Hutt 5019 09 407 7551 04 234 7972lucyvandrews@xtra.co.nz 04 563 8450 michaelwray@xtra.co.nz albertvv@gmail.com Waikato/Bay of PlentyAuckland Trevor Ogilvie Stewart Foster MBE Secretary/TreasurerPhillipa Green Vice President Graham Gould Treasurer 10A Otonga Road and Life Member PO Box 5887 Lambton Quay Rotorua 3015 PO Box 8002 UrlichTrevor Wilson Secretary Wellington 6145 07 347 8181 Hamilton 3245 Telephone 04 973 6741 07 843 6121Anne Goulter Treasurer Heather O’Hagan nzmathletics@xtra.co.nz gvgould@xtra.co.nz PO Box 106Waikato/Bay of Plenty Tasman Paeroa 3640 Directors 07 862 7163 ph/fax John Campbell Derek Shaw PresidentDave Couper President ohagan@visique.co.nz PO Box 602 john39296@gmail.comdab.couper@gmail.com Nelson 7040 027 4599 777 Rene OttoMurray Clarkson Vice President 03 548 7537 5 Eleanor Place Ian Carter37 Pillans Road nikau@ts.co.nz Whakatane 3120 257 Moetapu Bay RdOtumoetai Tauranga 3110 07 308 0674 RD 2 Picton 728207 576 9575 Ian Carter Secretary 03 574 1184wbopmasters@xtra.co.nz PO Box 602 Nelson 7040 Hawkes Bay/Gisborne hicarter.nz@gmail.comFay Riley Treasurer 03 574 1184 Mike O’Leary Secretary Claire Giles37 Pillans Road hicarter.nz@gmail.com miker.oleary@xtra.co.nzOtumoetai Tauranga 3110 Derek Shaw07 576 9575 Canterbury Taranaki PO Box 602wbopmasters@xtra.co.nz Alan Jones Nelson 7040 Andrew Stark President 12 Highcrest Heights 26 Kowhai Street 03 548 7537Hawkes Bay/Gisborne Westmorland PO Box 107 Inglewood 4347 nikau@ts.co.nzDennis O’Leary President Christchurch 8025 06 756 70518 Tollemache Road East, Hastings Tel: 03 338 0516 alan_j666@hotmail.com06 876 1134027 497 7081 aws.resources@xtra.co.nz Eric Kemsley New Zealanddj.jaoleary@gmail.com Anne Davison Secretary 27 Ormand Road 5 Kenmore Street New Plymouth 4310 Masters (NZMA)Murray Andersen Treasurer 06 753 4674 Lincoln 760864 Endsleigh Drive ekemsley@xtra.co.nz Jim Blair MNZM Patron and Life Member email: hawrut@gmail.comHavelock North 4/39 Kiln Street06 877 7460 ph/fax Silverstream Anna McNab Treasurer Manawatu/Wanganui021 773 480 Upper Hutt 5019 PO Box 31251 Ilammurray@timeit.net.nz Jen Fee Christchurch 8444 04 528 2992 216 Kahuterawa Rd 03 366 0169 (wk) or 027 469 3276 (a/h)Mike O’Leary Secretary RD2 anna@hmconsultants.co.nz Rob McGregor Life Member / Reviewermiker.oleary@xtra.co.nz Palmerston North 4472 5 Panorama Grove 06 3537739 Lower Hutt 5010 Otago 0274 787 235Taranaki Robert Homan President 04 569 6316Vicky Adams President shirley1947@ihug.co.nz Francie Bayler20A Waiwera Place Claire Giles Secretary 141 Mt View RoadNew Plymouth 4312 Bastia Hill Alan Galbraith Legal Adviser QC06 758 9326 Wanganui PO Box 4338 Fiona Harvey Treasurer 06 343 1124 Auckland 1030 03 455 3028Lynne Mackay Secretary francieb@slingshot.co.nz 09 309 1769 nona.harvey@xtra.co.nz6A Mallinder Place agalbraith@xtra.co.nzOakura 431406 763 8658 bus Southland Tasman06 752 7782 hm Dwight Grieve President Derek Shawlynnemackay@xtra.co.nz 21 Gunn Street PO Box 602 Te Anau 9600 Nelson 7040 03 249 4357Manawatu/Wanganui dwightandlee@gmail.com 03 548 7537Francie Bayler President 03 548 7535 faxPO Box 5369 nikau@ts.co.nz Lee Grieve Secretary/TreasurerTerrace End 21 Gunn Street Ian CarterPalmerston North 4441 Te Anau 9600 257 Moetapu Bay Rdmwmasters@gmail.com 03 249 4357 RD 2 Picton 7282 dwightandlee@gmail.com ph 03 574 1184Matt Hillas Treasurer hicarter.nz@gmail.comJen Fee SecretaryPO Box 5369 CanterburyTerrace End Lorraine MenziesPalmerston North 4441 54 Joyce Crescent027 478 7235 Greymouth 7805mwmasters@gmail.com 03 768 4871 Brian Senior PO Box 15 Methven 7745 03 302 96294 Vetline - October 2020
Committees / ContactsOceania Masters Council WMA Committees World MastersAthletics (OMA) Joan Merrilees Competition Athletics (WMA) 269 Dukes Road South RD2 Lynne Schickert (Secretary) AustraliaJim Blair MNZM Patron Mosgiel 9092 Bob Schickert Australia Margit Jungmann President4/39 Kiln Street +64 3 484 7030 (h) Germany +64 27 222 0317 (M) Women’s margit-jungmann@kreis-saarlouis.deSilverstream alexandjoan@xnet.co.nz Wilma Perkins (Chair) AustraliaUpper Hutt 5019 Heather Carr Australia+64 4 528 2992 Lynn Schickert Executive Vice President Tim Rogers Records Australia 26 Captain Cook Rd Anson BayDavid Lobb President George White Australia lynne.4@bigpond.com Norfolk Island 2899c/- PO Box 814 +6723 54369Rarotonga trogers@ninet.nf Organisational Advisory Brian Keaveney Vice President CompetitionCook Islands Lynne Schickert (Chair) Australia Canada+682 26335 masters@sympatico.ca George White Statistician Law and Legislationlobby@oyster.net.ck 12A Gulfview Road Bob Schickert Australia Blackwood 5051 María Alfaro SecretaryTtaua Juventin Vice President Mexico Australia Anti Doping and MedicalTahiti Roger Parrish Australia wmasec16@gmail.com +61 8 8178 0639 gwhite@adam.com.auHazel McDonnell Secretary Race Walk Panel Marion Buchanan Australia The information provided here, is correct at the timeAustralia Nemani Tukunia of printing. Please check the official websites forhazelmcd@bigpond.com Fiji further information or updates.David Benjimen TreasurerVanuatu What better way to advertise. Distributed to master’s athletes nationwide. January | April | July | October ADVERTISING RATES INSIDE FRONT COVER Single Issue Only - $497 INSIDE BACK COVER Single Issue Only - $497 SINGLE PAGE INSIDE Single Issue Only - $320 HALF PAGE INSIDE Single Issue Only - $200 QUARTER PAGE INSIDE Single Issue Only - $135 SMALLER ADVERTIsem*nTS 85mm wide - $12.00 per column cm 175mm wide - $20.00 per column cm (full page width) These rates are for Black & White advertisem*nts. Colour material can be accepted by negotiation. Contributions and advertising to the editor by the first day of the preceeding month. Terms of payment: 20th of the month following invoice date. Contact: admin@nzmastersathletics.org.nz Vetline - October 2020 5
Article2020 Athletics NZ Road Relay Championshipsby Michael WrayWe should give full credit to both Feilding Moa and Athletics behind Geoff Ferry. Chris Mardon brought New BrightonNew Zealand for enabling the NZ Road Relays to go ahead. Olympic in after lap one in third place, 17s behind Owairaka’sAuckland’s status of being in level two and under Government Julian Ng and 11s ahead of Wellington Harriers’ Richard Swan.guidance to continue to operate within smaller bubbles meant Lake City’s hopes were dented early when Adrian Lysaghtthey were kept separate as much as possible and asked to discovered his second lap runner, Sjors Corporaal nowhere inmaintain social distancing during the day; from what I witnessed sight. Sjors eventually arrived to take the baton after what wasboth the organisers and athletes did their best to observe this reported as some 60 to 90s. Wellington Harriers moved Danrequirement. Nixon up into third place during the second leg; they held this place to the end and the medal spots didn’t vary at all during theANZ and Feilding Moa took great pleasure in announcing this last five legs.race as the first national championship to be held anywhere inthe world since March. The Feilding locals not even involved in The MW 35 grade had just two teams, where Scottish wereathletics (but whose driveways were exploited by team vans) defending a title against the previous runners-up Wellingtonwere heard repeating this with great pride. It turns out that Harriers. Last year’s bronze holders, Olympic, only had sixBritish Athletics beat us to this first when they held their track masters women run so they spread them between seniorand field nationals in early September. Regardless, thank you women and social teams and did not have a W35 team. Emmato Courtney Macdonald and Rob Dabb’s teams for committing Bassett gave Scottish an early lead on lap one running to a 51sto delivering this event and giving our community what is the lead. Mel Stevens, running against Doctor’s orders with a nastyequivalent to the ANZ community’s annual Christmas party! sinus infection, increased Scottish’s lead by a further 23s and Carla Denneny added a further 27s on leg three. Then on legInevitably numbers were a little down this year (128 to 117), four Sarah Bonoma produced a storming lap for WHAC, turningwith clubs like Hamilton Hawks noticeably absent. By contrast, a 1:41 deficit to a 1:22 advantage. Fiona Hayvice respondedWellington Scottish increased their presence and entered 19 by returning Scottish to a 1:23 lead, so with two legs to go theteams across all grades, by far more than any other club. race was looking to play out in Scottish’s favour. However, neverThere was a little controversy in the build-up to the event underestimate the drama of a relay. Emily Solsberg sufferedwhen a rule change was revealed to have been made without from cramps and GI issues during her run, leaving her in someclubs noticing. The M40-49 grade was now the M35-49 grade. distress and lucky to even finish without being substituted.The last time the master’s men grade was set to M35 was in Helen Ewing took full advantage and delivered the baton to2004 and the change was reversed one year later in the wake WHAC’s Nat Hardaker with an unassailable lead of over eightof complaints. While the change makes sense, in as much as it minutes. Lindsay Barwick closed the lead down by two minutesaligns all events with a consistent age cut-off, the change not but Wellington Harriers won the grade by 6:48.coming to light until clubs were putting in their entries created In the M50 grade Scottish were seeking to be the sixth teamre-work at short notice in team formulations. to have won the grade three times in a row. The team thatNine teams contested the M35 grade. Defending champions, pushed them hard last year, Hamilton Hawks, were absentWellington Scottish, had three teams and the 2019 runners-up but Don Greig Racing Stables had a team featuring some highWellington Harriers were also back. We were guaranteed a new achieving runners and Owairaka were also lining up a goodpresence on the podium because the previous bronze medallists team. Supplementing them were perennial challengers Lake(Cambridge) were absent. The race produced very little drama. City and Wellington Harriers. The first leg was a close contestScottish’s seven runners (James Richardson, Geoff Ferry, between DGRS’ Jason Baillie and Scottish’s Dave Kettles. JasonStephen Day, Paul Barwick, Rowan Hooper, Alasdair Saunders led to the final hill but Dave moved to the fore and finished 23sand Andrew Wharton) were all the fastest runners on their ahead. Owairaka’s Peter Kenny finished 1:31 further back inlaps, making it gold in the grade for the fourth consecutive year. third. Peter Stevens increased the Scottish lead, running fastestThe second placed team recorded their first ever medal in the lap by 10s. Dan Coates moved Owairaka into second place,masters men grade. Owairaka’s Julian Ng, Nick Moore, Simon passing DGRS’ Richard Bennett. Troy Harold and Tim MorrisonMace, Keith Burrows, Adam Gallagher, Adam Berry and Paul ate into the deficit, running fastest legs to bring Scottish backWhite were all the second fastest runners in the grade. This down to a 64s lead before Gerard Gordon added 51s to themeant that Scottish’s lead, 61s after lap one, merely increased Scottish buffer. Tim Mitchell knocked a little off, running 4swith every ensuing lap and Owairaka successively increased quicker than Scottish’s James Turner. Michael Wray started thethe gap back to third all the way to the finish. Nick Moore came last leg with a 1:51 lead and finished with Scottish 5:07 ahead toclosest to achieving fastest lap for Owairaka, only one second comfortably win. Owairaka were a long way clear for the silver6 Vetline - October 2020
Article PHOTOS: Sharon WrayEmma Bassett Scottish W35a team Alastair Kenworthy WHACmedal, finishing over six minutes ahead of Don Greig Racing on Avon’s Dave Tyrrell and restored Nelson’s lead but AucklandStables in third. Uni’s Steve Duxfield ran the fastest lap time and propelled the defending champions into second. Wellington Harriers BrianThe W50 grade became academic when neither of Hamilton Hayes moved up into third as Christchurch Avon fell to fourth.Hawks or Wellington Harriers fielded a team to defend their The rotation of places continued into the fourth leg whenmedals from 2019. Scottish were back to defend the title, with Christchurch Avon returned to the front thanks to a strongone change to the winning team of 2019 – Helen Bradford run from Peter Richards. Nelson’s Graeme Lear kept his teamreplacing Trisha Sloan – and their only opponents were the in second with Auckland Uni in third. In the final two legs, theScottish B team. Consequently, Michele Allison, Melissa Moon, challenge from Wellington Harriers and Wellington ScottishHelen Bradford, Anna Guy, Betty Harp and Maria Williams faded away, leaving the same teams to populate the podiumromped to a 53 minute victory. as in 2019 and only the order to be determined. Fastest leg sixThe open 60s grade is one that has been dominated by Nelson came from Nelson’s Tim Cross but Christchurch Avon’s Andrewsince its introduction in 2012. Nelson had only failed to win Stark produced a fast finish to regain the lead he had lostin 2016 (when they couldn’t get a team to Rotorua) and 2019 earlier and keep his team in the front. Auckland Uni were nowbut Auckland University were the defending title holders several minutes behind and despite Steve Fairley running thefrom 2019 and they were back, along with third placed fastest time, last year’s gold medallists had to settle for bronze.Christchurch Avon, setting up a good race in which Olympic, Nelson’s Ian Carter ran the second quickest last leg, sweepingWellington Harriers and Wellington Scottish were also past Christchurch Avon’s Victor Gamperle and securing the titlehoping to feature. Andrew Barker gave Nelson an 86s lead, for Nelson.from Wellington Harriers’ Paul May in lap one. Christchurch Wellington Scottish secured the Top Club trophy for the thirdAvon’s Roger Ward held third place, a mere second ahead of consecutive year, having to rely on the tie-breaking countbackChris Harp (Wellington Scottish) and Auckland Uni’s Brett after finishing on the same points as Wellington Harriers.Katterns finished fifth only 13s further back. Christchurch Avon University of Canterbury were third.produced the fastest second lap time when John Gamblin ran26s faster than Scottish’s Phil Sadgrove and took the lead from Next year the Road Relays will return to Canterbury, whereNelson’s Murray Hart, while Todd Krieble moved Wellington the country’s best relay course from Takahe to Akaroa will beHarriers into third. Derek Shaw quickly made up the 8s deficit Nationals, a status it has held thirteen times previously. Vetline - October 2020 7
ArticlePHOTOS: Sharon Wray Nick Burrow New Brighton Olympic M35-49 Winners Masters Women 50+ Scottish 1st and 2nd Tricia Sloan, Maria Williams, Melissa Moon, Betty Harp, Helen Bradford, Michele Allison MW50B and Terri Grimmett MW50 Carla Denneny Scottish W35 Top Club winners Wellington Scottish Athletics patron Alan Stevens and President Michael Wray Karen Dravitzki - Wellington Scottish Winners Masters Men 35-49 1st Wellington Scottish M35A, 2nd Owairaka Athletics M35, 3rd Wellington Harrier Athletics Club M35 8 Vetline - October 2020
Article PHOTOS: Sharon WrayWinners of the Open Walkers 1st Trentham United Harrier and Walkers 1, 2nd Lindsay Barwick Scottish W35aWellington Scottish Walk and 3rd Trentham United Harriers and Walkers 2Winners M35-49 1st Wellington Scottish M35A, 2nd Owairaka Athletics M35, Richard Martin Olympic Harriers M353rd Wellington Harriers Athletics Club M35Winners Open 60+ 1st Athletics Nelson, 2nd Christchurch Avon, Fiona Hayvice Wellington Scottish W35a3rd Auckland University Track Club Vetline - October 2020 9
Article2020 World Wide Virtual Masters Challengeby Lester LaughtonOn Sunday 19 July at 9.30am, we met at the Dunedin Thank you to Melva who did the calling and recording. She didCaledonian Athletics ground to compete in throwing events for seem to like her heavy fur coat and beanie as sitting still was athis challenge. Fiona Harvey is due a huge vote of thanks for her bit chilly. It was a very enjoyable days throwing, despite verynever tiring efforts in arranging this, and many past events, for little training as such by any of the six participants. Afterwardsus. Competitors were canvassed by email and a suitable date the Waimate ladies headed back home and the rest of us hadorganised which had to fit in with other users of the grounds. a most welcome meal at the Law Courts Hotel in Dunedin. AAdded to that Fiona sourced the necessary equipment and place we all highly recommend.throwing implements, along with a tea and coffee break with It is such a pity that more throwers had not participated. I didfreshly made savoury scones and energy treats. canvass a few, and got such responses as “I’m not well enoughIt was a cool morning in Dunedin, with a light frost. The sun was prepared”, “Dunedin might be too cold at that time”. I do havejust appearing above the eastern Port Chambers hills as we to agree, Dunedin can be cold, but that can be any time of thecommenced throwing, and it continued throughout the morning year, and as for preparation, well who can really want to go outin a clear blue sky, making for most pleasant conditions. for a throws session when it is 2 degrees, or raining, or thick fog. Fair enough. There are some with real health issues who cannotKelly and Toni had travelled the two hours from Waimate, Noni compete, which we all do feel sad for. The rest of you - “Get offfrom Waikouaiti and her friend, Jim from Wellington, Lester and the couch”.Melva from Manapouri. Alison was the only local, along withFiona the official. Melva was the recorder. I always think that it is satisfying just being able to throw. An outing such as we had is so much better than just going out forFirst event, the hammer throw, Kelly showed she can still a few throws on your own. It is nice to compete against andmaster three rotations, (most of the time) and had the furthest sometimes beat a few of your key rivals from time to time, butthrow of 29.22m. Toni threw the longest shot at 8.56m. my main competitor is myself. If I can throw near to previouslyMorning “smoko” break was very welcome at this stage. Thank I am happy. On the other hand it can be rather difficult dealingyou again Fiona for being so thoughtful. with diminishing distances and a less responsive body, withLester surprised himself with a discus of 35.42m for his last arthritic joints here and there, but that is life.throw. The javelin is not the favourite of many pentathlon For the record, Noni still competes regularly, and she has hadthrowers. Toni showed us how with a 25.77m throw. Jim both knee joints replaced. Jim, at the tender age of 89 years, iswas a bit off his usual best with 17.66m, and Alison threw a a great example to all and an inspiration to keep on keeping on.commendable 18.74m. Last event, the weight throw, as always, His key message is that if you can keep to the same or similaris an interesting one. Kelly and Toni both throwing the 20lb distances as you age and the gear gets lighter, you are doingweight did very well with 9.66 and 8.27 respectively. Lester very well. Not many can do so. He played his annual game ofmanaged 11.63 with this. Alison threw a very good 10.37m, and soccer last week. Just half a game this year he tells us. Late Mayenjoyed throwing the lighter weight, having just turned 60. 2021 he is planning to celebrate his 90th birthday in Japan, justMost of us were feeling the pinch at this stage, but the ever prior to competing in the World Masters Games.determined Kelly then threw the super heavy weight, which Noni, Jim and Fiona were back at the “Cale” on Tuesday 21stfor her W35 age group was the 35lb. With a little advice from at 1pm to officiate the long and triple jump for Alison. It wasJim, she opted for just one turn, and threw 7.16m. Lester was a balmy 16 degrees and she jumped into a slight head wind. Ifbriefly tempted to have a throw so that Kelly could have a rest it had been a proper athletic meeting with a wind gauge, shebetween her efforts, but common sense aimed at preservation would have certainly taken the W60 Otago triple jump record.of the body took over.10 Vetline - October 2020
ArticleVictoria Humphries 1st W50 5km in the Wellington Road Champs Michele Allison looking strong heading back up the hill - 1st W60 5km in the Wellington Road ChampsAdditional background and thoughts on the Challengeby Laini Inivale and Noni CallanderResponding to the disruption of the northern masters athletics With the current state of the world, virtual competitions mayseasons high level competition by COVID-19, a worldwide become by necessity the new normal. Seeing the fun thesevirtual challenge was dreamed up. Birthed by Masters Athletics pioneering masters athletes had writing history, I (Laini) kindathrowing stalwarts John Seto (USA) of www.mastersrankings. now wish I had made the effort to enter. Well done to thecom fame, Gottfried Gassenbauer (AUT) and Guy Dirkin (GBR), Magnificent Seven.they embarked on the challenge of organising this huge andunprecedented undertaking. PHOTO: Otago Masters Athletics Facebook PageAn introductory worldwide email on 16 May 2020 fromthe virtual LOC unveiled the audacious concept. Over 1500athletes from around the world took part, including 9 NZathletes. Six of the seven throwers even organised to throw atthe same time at the Caledonian Ground in Dunedin on 19 July2020 and were thus in the B section. Throwers results are in thetable below. Two days after throwing Alison Newall returned tothe ground to tackle the long and triple jump and pole vault.Two other athletes took part at an officially recognised meetand thus were in the A section. Brayden Grant (M35) ran 100min 11.58 placing him 4th in the A section and 10th overall. His50.32 in the 400m placed him 1st in the A Section and 2ndoverall. Jacqueline Wilson (W70) recorded 32:56 in the 5000mwalk placing her 1st in the A section and 3rd overall, and in the10km walk recorded 1:06.29 placing her 1st in the A sectionand second overall. L-R Toni, Noni, Kelley, Lester, Jim and Alison Vetline - October 2020 11
ObituaryBruce Eric McPhail (26/01/1937 – 21/07/2020 )Foreword by Derek ShawThe legendary masters sprinter and former All Black Bruce With his fine speed it is to be expected that he would be anMcPhail died on 21 July 2020 aged 83. Bruce won many NZ excellent long jumper but it is unusual for a sprinter to alsoMasters Athletics championship titles as he progressed through shine in the high jump.the 5 year age groups from M40 to M65 in the 100m, 200m, From a very young person Bruce displayed sprinting ability400m, long and high jump during the 1980s and 1990s. He held well above the average and this talent he used with great effectmany NZ masters records in these age groups and still holds some on them rugby field where his explosive running, particularly15 NZ Masters and 9 NZMA Championship records in the 100m, over the first 20m left many an opposition winger gasping at200m, 400m and long jump. He competed regularly at World his shadow. He played for Mid-Canterbury before moving toand Oceania Masters Championships and enjoyed considerable Christchurch to represent Canterbury in the late 1950s. Thesuccess. In 1983 at the World champs in Puerto Rice he won form shown in provincial games led to his being selected forsilver in the M45 200m and 400m and bronze in the 100m. At the All Blacks against the Lions 1959 touring team. He hadthe 1989 World Champs in Melbourne he won silver in the M50 the difficult job of marking one of the Lion’s star wingers, Tony200m and bronze in 100m and at the 1989 champs in Oregon the O’Reilly, in the first and fourth tests. Bruce played in the curtainbronze in the M50 100m. raiser at Lancaster Park in the match Canterbury v CombinedThe following article on Bruce McPhail by Arhur Grayburn was Services. Sitting in the No. 5 stand that afternoon I was in apublished in the June 1993 issue of Vetline and is reprinted great position to witness Bruce’s elusive play as he set a NZhere so readers can gain an appreciation of his achievements in record by scoring seven tries.athletics and rugby. Shortly, after this we both moved to the Nelson district. BruceProfile by Arthur Grayburn was Dalgety’s grain and seed agent while I was appointed to a sole charge school at Harakeke. Bruce was always encouraging youngsters and his loan of his All Black and British Lions jerseys“Seek and you shall find” could well be the title of this story on to my school was very much appreciated.Bruce McPhail. The time was January 1978 and the place wasthe Tahunanui Motor Camp in Nelson where a chance meeting As was to be expected the Nelson Rugby Union were overjoyedof my wife Merle, Bruce and Marilyn and myself took place. to have someone of Bruce’s ability move into the province.Veteran athletics had been established in New Zealand for Some of his most brilliant play came in his years in the area.three years and members were encouraged to recruit those He was particularly spectacular in the 1960 game against thewhom they thought might be interested in joining. This was French side scoring two fine tries.an ideal opportunity as Bruce and I had attended the same During his early years in Christchurch Bruce ran regularly atsecondary school, Ashburton High, and we both lived in the Rugby Park where he was to the fore in the sprints. HoweverNelson District in the early 1960s. while he ran in the provincial championships, like many otherBruce initially was hesitant about becoming a Veteran athlete rugby players he did not appear to reach his full potential.but with a little persuasion he agreed to come along to the Indeed some of his times as a veteran athlete are little inferiorCanterbury Veteran Athletic Champs, which were being held in to those he recorded as a senior athlete.a months time at English Park. During the next few weeks Bruce His first World Games were those held in Christchurch in 1982must have done some solid training as in all of the events in where he experienced the misfortune of being firstly placedwhich he participated at the championships he displayed great third in the 100m only for a further check of the photo-finishform and ability. It was obvious that one of the brightest stars to drop him back a place. This appeared to give him morethat we have had in NZ Veteran Athletics was on his way. At the determination and in 1983 he was in exceptional form at theNZ Veteran Championships held at Blenheim the next month American Championships at Houston and at the World GamesBruce established himself on the national scene and has not in Puerto Rico. His next World Games were those in Rome inmissed a Provincial or NZ Championship since that time. 1985 followed by the Melbourne Games in 1987. OppositionHis recent tally of six golds, a silver and a bronze at the recent has always been tough in the sprints and here Bruce has oftenOceania Games in Norfolk Island confirmed his ability in a wide had to compete against that outstanding Australian sprinter,range of disciplines and showed that he is the best sprinter, Reg Austin.jumper, pentathlete that NZ Veteran Athletics has produced. The American Championships in San Diego and the WorldIn the 100m and 200m he has not been beaten in 15 years Games in Eugene were very happy hunting grounds for Bruceof competition and only rarely in the 400m has his fellow in 1989. He did not go to Turku in 1991 but has his eyes keenlycompetitor Malcolm Fraser been able to finish ahead of him. set on the 1993 World Veteran Championships in Miyazaki. Already the influential newspaper “The Australian” is picking12 Vetline - October 2020
Obituaryhim as one of the likely stars. Several Oceania Games have International Meetings: Winner of sprint events at Oceaniabeen keenly contested and many times he has brought the Games and American Championships. At World Games has won 3New Zealand flag to the fore with some fine running. silver and 5 bronze medals 1981 – 1989.He has not limited himself only to veteran athletics and at Pentathlon: Regular winner at provincial, national and Oceaniapresent he represents South Canterbury on the Centre of level.Athletics Canterbury. Much of the strength and growth Long and High Jump: Winner of all provincial and national titlesof veteran athletics in the Ashburton district comes from since 1978.his enthusiasm and encouragement. In his administrationduties on the National Executive he has taken over the very Records: He set and holds at least 17 provincial records, 13demanding portfolio of Uniforms and Merchandise. This he national and 15 championship records. Three Oceania Gameshas handled with great efficiency and has introduced many records.new ideas, which have helped to give NZ athletes a great image Rugby: Played six games on the wing for Mid Canterbury inwhich makes them very distinctive at international meetings. 1956, Played 42 games for Nelson Province scoring 30 tries,Chronicle 1960-63. Played 24 games for Canterbury scoring 23 tries, 1957- 59. Played two Tests for the All Blacks v British Lions in 1959.Veteran Athletics: 100, 200, 400m – has won almost all of his Counting trials and combined teams Bruce played 85 first classage group races in these events at both provincial and national games scoring 73 tries – an outstanding record.level since 1978. Winner of similar events at South IslandChampionships since 1981.Charles Eric de Lautour ( 25/07/1920 – 14/04/2020 )by Fay RileyAnzac Day dawned and as we stood at the end of our driveway 80’s and acquitted himself remarkably well, however Te Arohaduring the lockdown, strains of the Last Post were drifting was the stand-out. Like a true champion, he would give anyacross the Waikaraeo Estuary. It was a solemn moment to event 100% and support other competitors.remember a comrade and friend who passed on in his 100th Eric loved travelling and competing in Italy where he servedyear. Such a beautiful morning, brilliant sunrise, it all could not during the War and established many friends. He also acquiredhave been better. As Eric was very much a morning person and a conversational grasp of the language. He and his brothera Second World War veteran, it was a very sobering moment of attended a reunion of war veterans in Italy when both were inremembrance and reflection. their nineties. Eric treasured this experience. His internationalI had known Eric for many years – long before he joined the track battles were mainly against Italians and a Mexican.Veterans (now Masters) and enjoyed everything that it entailed. On his return from the War, he was in very poor health andHis many years up and down the hills on the farm in Wairoa nobody expected him to survive far less get to his 100th year.stood him in great stead for all his marathons (mainly the By will-power and a strong determination to make the most ofFletcher in Rotorua) and other distance events. life through fitness he was able to enjoy a life full of challengesAfter moving to Te Puke, he joined Te Puke Harriers and really and pleasures. He set up a gym at home and a nearby reserveenjoyed the cross country running at Brawn’s Farm at No.2 had some challenging features to build stamina.Road, Te Puke. He had a lot of strength and stamina. On moving As if this was not enough to keep him busy, he also had anto Tauranga, he joined Tauranga Ramblers and was a regular interest in gardening with a kumara patch and an assortment ofcompetitor in track and cross country events. He was an age apple trees. It gave him a lot of pleasure to see his children andgroup World champion and record holder for many track grandchildren competing and to be able to encourage them.events. It was a great way to see the world and he and his wife,Rae, loved to travel. After Rae passed away, his daughter Kay It was sad that there could not be a funeral due to COVID-19accompanied him. lock-down to farewell him and grieve with family and friends. A get-together is planned soon. If we can all live such a healthyEric loved to go “off-road” and was thrilled when my son, Clive and long life lived to the max like Eric, it would indeed beReynolds, invited him to run Mt Te Aroha. This was something a bonus. He has left behind many memories for us all andhe had always wanted to do but needed to have support. our sincere condolences go to his family and all who wereSheer delight on accomplishing the summit was a moment to associated with him.remember. He went on many other trail runs with us while in his Vetline - October 2020 13
ObituaryRonald John Stevens ( 1932-2020 )by Peter CoughlanThe New Zealand running fraternity recently farewelled one of Ron joined the Olympic Harrier Club in 1954 (five years afterits most recognized and respected members; Ron Stevens. His it began), and remained a member until it amalgamated withrunning career resembled the ‘game of two halves’ philosophy. New Brighton in 2011. He joined the combined club brieflyInitially as a senior, it rose to a crescendo in the late 1950s – before having to retire from running. Ron was prominent inearly 60s, tapered off as he approached veteran status (he never the administration of the Olympic Club, recognized by being‘embraced’ the new description) and became more prominent made a life member. He served as president, and with Noeleenas he moved through the masters age grades, finishing with his and the late Dave Bates he spent many years editing the Club’sdomination of the M75s. newsletter, the Marathon Post. He also wrote articles for Vetline.His best achievements at the national senior level were in the3 and 6 miles (5 and 10k for youngsters), and the marathon. Whilst documenting all of his achievements is impossible, hisHis senior running period coincided with the ‘golden years’ of greatest achievement was breaking the NZ 15 mile (24.1k)NZ athletics (approximately 1957–64) where he competed track record on the grass track at Rugby Park. A surface heagainst all of Lydiard’s charges and well-performed Canterbury didn’t favour, preferring the road. This was truly an incredibleathletes such as Clarrie Reece, John Macdonald and the late Bill effort by the wee man. With his short but relentless choppyRichards. stride and vigorous arm action, he was “poetry in motion”. Ron time of 77:42.5s took 2:38 off the record. It certainly was hisRon was born in Oamaru on 11 November 1932. His father Reg, “finest hour” (and a bit).who had also been a very good runner, was a primary schoolteacher and later a headmaster. As such the family moved many When he entered the masters grades, he remained competitivetimes to various school postings, and is why Ron ended up doing with the seniors, especially in the first few years. Anyone whohis secondary schooling in Karamea. After leaving with school was younger than him was “fair game”. He particularly enjoyedcertificate, he worked for five years in a sawmill. He felt this it as he approached the M60 grade, where some runners whowould help build up his strength and even when in his early 70s got to see only the back of his singlet weren’t in his grade orhe could still lift hay bales to shoulder height. With nearly a year even from his generation!in bed on two occasions due to rheumatic fever, Ron’s physique As he moved through the masters grades, Canterbury mastersof 1.6m and 51kg implied neither speed nor strength. titles and records continued to be the norm but NZ recordsWhilst attending high school and due to his health, his doctor were much more difficult to come by. However, as aging andadvised him not to play any vigorous sport. Consequently his attrition go hand-in-hand, Ron could start to see light at thesporting career got off to a late start. Ron wasn’t always good at end of the tunnel. Initially it was, unfortunately, the proverbialtaking medical advice and when he first came to Christchurch he train in the form of the late Derek Turnbull which madeplayed a season for the Lancaster Park Cricket Club. records very challenging indeed. Ron turned his attention to the various M75 records and began to relish the prospect ofRon moved to Christchurch in 1951 and began studying for picking off at least some of them, if not all. These ranged froma B.A. at the University of New Zealand (Canterbury). He 800m through to 10,000m – an incredible range – calling oncontinued his body-building regime by working part-time the very best of the two main attributes of middle-distancefor Elliots’ Carriers. Emerging from university clutching his running, stamina and speed.B.A. in English, he went to Teachers’ College to become aprimary school teacher. After teaching at various schools and His fitness continued to improve so that when he turned 75 hecompleting an M.A. (Ed), he returned to Teachers’ College to ‘hit the ground running’ and in 2007 he set a new record forlecturer in English. He had a brief stint of “missionary service” 10,000m of 43:51; then in 2008 he reduced it again to 43:36.at a university in Armidale, near Canberra, trying to teach However, just when you thought you’d seen everything, hethe Australians how to use language properly. (Not sure how turned 77, and it was “all on” again. He set a new M75 recordsuccessful he was!). Also while at Teachers’ College, he co- for the 800m (2:55.41), followed by the 1500m (5:53.43) andauthored a language and reading educational programme, 5000m (21:27.9). Only the 3000m record was needed to givenamed LARIC. It was used quite widely in NZ and is apparently him a “full house”.still used in some places overseas. Although the 3000m still remained out of reach, it was deja vuRon retired in the late 1980s citing deafness. Neville Reid would for the 10,000m. A few weeks after turning 77, he absolutelytell you Ron was always half a pace ahead of him while training, demolished his own record, with a time of 42:04.32. This wasthe excuse being that it was necessary for hearing purposes. possibly one of the best displays of controlled and sustainedYeah right! He used to call it “hanging on from the front”. distance running by a masters athlete for many years. Probably14 Vetline - October 2020
Obituarythe most amazing (but perhaps little-known) aspect of this one day about this change he said it was a “Road to Damascus”effort was that he went through the half-way mark well inside thing.his existing NZ 5000m record, in approximately 20:52; and even Some of his training exploits in later years were trulythough he slowed a little in the second half, he was also still just remarkable. He’d go out for an hour at six o’clock with one ladyinside his existing 5000m record. (So how do I know so much or eight o’clock with another. Then he’d come and do a run withabout this – I was one of the “statues” that he lapped 5 times.) me; sometimes having already been out in the morning, andIn early 2010 he carried his record-breaking form into the then go with another group in the evening. And that wasn’tNew Year, setting a new record for the 3000m of 12:19.68, and always the end of it either, as he would often go to a Yoga class.21:03 for 5000m. Finally, “Rocket Ron, the Flying Fossil” had the He also enjoyed ballroom dancing – the real “Fred and Ginger”full set. stuff that involved being up on his toes half the time. Imagine what that was like a couple of hours after a track session inIn 2011 Ron began to experience difficulty when trying to run spikes!and was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. As he could only runa short distance before having a walk, it became clear that the Outside of running and education, he had several other“curtain had come down” on what was a very long, and truly interests. He was very active in his church, designed andremarkable running career. The M80 record holders breathed a built his own house and at one point he bought a smallsigh of relief! truck, which benefited many. He also worked part-time for a funeral director and was a funeral celebrant. He was also anHis training methods were somewhat different from the enthusiastic and competent photographer. Among Ron’s manyLydiard-type regime of the time. He tended towards running qualities was a marvelous sense of humour. The more subtleless distance but with more intensity, and I’m not aware of the joke or comment and the more he had to think about it, thehim doing any more than 80 miles (130 km) a week. The core more he enjoyed it – and boy could he laugh.of his training was regular sessions “flat stick”, with recoveryruns in between. Two and ten mile effort runs (3 and 16k He was a truly remarkable person in many ways, and I will missapproximately) were his favourites. him enormously, as I’m sure many others will. Ron, “you may not always be remembered, but never forgotten”.Although he used to train seven days a week in his earlier senioryears, at some point he reduced this to six and when I asked R.I.P. old friend. Vetline - October 2020 15
ArticleWho is Killian Jornet?by George WhiteHe just might be the fittest athlete on the planet! • Kilimanjaro, 5,895m. In October 2013 – set the record for the ascent and descent in 7 hours and 14 minutes;The average time for a mountaineer to reach the summit of MtEverest from Base Camp is 40 to 45 days and that is in a team • Denali, 6,168m. In June 2014 – set new record for thewith oxygen and fixed ropes. On 22 May 2017 Jornet did it in ascent and descent 11 hours and 48 minutes, breaking the26 hours without oxygen or ropes. Not bad – but he had a bit of previous record by 5 hours and 6 minutes;a stomach bug and wasn’t pleased with his effort so 5 days later • Acongagua, 6,960m. In December 2014 - set the record forhe did it again - in just 17 hours. This was after climbing Cho the ascent and descent in 12 hours and 49 minutes;Oyu (6th highest mountain in the world) on 7 May. The EverestSherpas call him “The monkey”. • Mount Everest, 8,848m. On 22 May 22 2017 Jornet summited Mount Everest climbing without fixed ropes orKilian Jornet is a Spanish mountaineer, speed climber and ultra- supplemental oxygen; he reached the top via a new routemarathon runner. He holds many records in ski mountaineering in 26 hours. On 27 May he reached the summit again in 17and mountain running. Two weeks after Everest he entered hours.a half marathon in Norway that climbed nearly a mile (an 8%grade) and won in 1:30:00. Six weeks later Jornet took on Along the way in 2015 with climber Ueli Steck, Jornet climbedanother major challenge - the Hardrock 100 Endurance Race. the infamous North Face of the Eiger via the classic 1930sThis is an ultra-marathon in Southern Colorado which covers route. This route typically takes 3 days but they reached summit10,000m of elevation over 100 miles. Initially he didn’t do well, in 4 hours and were back down in town in less than 10 hours.tripping at the 13 mile mark and dislocating his shoulder. Not Jornet has been logging over 1200 hours of training per yeardeterred, Jornet popped his own shoulder back into place and since his late teens – that’s an average of over 3 hours a day,ran the remaining 87 miles using his running vest as a makeshift including climbing 600,000m of total ascent every year - and yetsling. A little over 24 hours later he won the race – his third win still had time for a degree in exercise science. His physiologicalin four years. By September he had also won the Mont Blanc statistics are nothing short of phenomenal with a VO2 max anMarathon, the 31 km Swiss Sierre Zinal, the Scottish Gen Coe incredible 92 (elite endurance athletes range from 70 to 85!), aSkyline trail race (55 km) and the Marato Pirineu Marathon, resting heart rate of 33 and a lung capacity of 5.3 litres – almosttaking 17 minutes off the race record. In addition during 2017 1.5 litres more than an average male of the same height.on the world scene in Ski Mountaineering, he won the Verticalrace and was 2nd overall. Born in 1987 he was 18 months old when his mother took him on a seven-hour hike in the Pyrenees and we are toldHe has run across entire landmasses (Corsica) and mountain he never cried or fussed. At the age of 3 he completed a 7.5ranges (the Pyrenees) and regularly runs all day eating only mile cross country ski race and climbed Aneto 3, the highestwild berries and drinking only from streams. In 2009, when just mountain in the Pyrenees - 3,404 m. A year later he climbed21 years old, Jornet ran the 165-mile (and 6000m+ elevation the Breithorn (4,164 m) on the Swiss - Italy border. His motherchange) Tahoe Rim Trail. In the middle of the night he took a states her mission was to make Killian tired – she always failed.wrong turn, which added perhaps six miles to his run. He stillfinished in 38 hours 32 minutes, beating the previous best time He started ski mountaineering at the age of 12 and at 16by more than seven hours. When he reached the finish line, he he became a junior member of the Spanish national skilooked as if he’d just finished a fun run and when asked how he mountaineering team. He has raced as a senior since 2007.felt about the extra distance he ran – he said “more kilometres Last year was no less impressive than previous years - he is not– more fun”! slowing down – last year he set the 24-hour uphill skiing recordAlways after a new challenge - in 2012 Jornet set out to claim at 23,864 meters and amongst other things won the Sierre-fastest ascent and descent records on six of the world’s most Zinal race for a seventh time smashing almost four minutesfamous mountains. Everest represented the culmination of this off the course record. He also won the Pikes Peak Marathon. Heventure. This was his “Summits of My Life” project. He basically did this on a weekly plan as follows:took trail running principles and applied them to vertical routes • Tempo run: 30-35km at 3:30-3:50m/km;with the following results: • Uphill training: 3x700m at 20-24 minutes;• Mont Blanc, 4,810m. In July 2013 – set the record for the ascent and descent in 4 hours and 57 minutes; • Threshold intervals: 3×5000 (at close to 15 min) / 4×2000 (at close to 6 min) then 5km, 4km, 3km, 2km and 1km;• Matterhorn, 4,478m. In August 2013 – set the record for the ascent and descent in 2 hours and 52 minutes; • Intervals: 10×400 (at just over a minute) / 10×200 (at about 35s) / 10×600 (at about 100s);16 Vetline - October 2020
Article• Two easy mountain run: 25-30K with 1500-2000m of his descent, crossing Heimen still on the way up. At the top 15 elevation gain; minutes later Heimen jumped - hitting the ground two minutes after take-off to finish in 53:53, but Jornet made it to the• A technical mountain run: 15-20K with 3000-4000m of bottom in a time of 52:26. elevation gain in scrambling terrain (taking between 4 to 10 hours); There are many amazing YouTube videos of Jornet running up mountains and this one of the Romsdalshorn is a good example.In January this year, Jornet challenged his ski partner and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dgm5MQPGz8world-class BASE jumper Tom Erik Heimen, to a race up anddown one of the most-iconic climbing mountains in the world I will leave you with some of Jornet’s philosophy:- Romsdalshorn, Norway. Both would have to climb up between “Thinking that what you’re doing isn’t that important actually400 and 450m and descend - Jornet doing so on foot and makes things much easier”, he says. “I have seen people who areHeimen BASE-jumping down to the bottom. Jornet has no issue really well prepared, but then on the day of the race they putascending, finishing in just over 30 minutes before beginning themselves under so much pressure that they don’t perform”.IAU Six Hour Virtual Global Solidarity Runby Michael WrayThe IAU 6hr Virtual Global Solidarity Run took place on between head winds and tail winds as they followed the30 August. This event was an attempt by the International contours of the coastline.Association of Ultrarunners to replace cancelled events with a The worst part of the run was the 4km heading north fromform of international competition and each country’s athletics Miramar to Point Halsey, where achieving any forward motionassociation selected athletes as they would for a conventional was a challenge. Emily started to fall back from the other two inevent. More than 400 runners from 34 countries took part. this section. Fortunately, the women had a lot of support as clubThe New Zealand team consisted of three men (Andrew members turned out to run alongside them for periods. SharonMcDowall, Wayne Botha and Stuart Hughes) and six women Wray also accompanied them the whole way in a car, delivering(Mel Aitken, Fiona Hayvice, Emily Solsberg, Emma Bassett, sustenance and fluids as required, in addition to photographingDawn Tuffrey and Debrah Breedt). The first four of those their experience. And because the object is to record as muchwomen were all from the same club, Wellington Scottish, so distance as possible, rather than arrive at a given finish point,they planned to run mostly together. Emma and Fiona were able to run back and forth once they passed Point Halsey to allow Emily to rejoin them and the threeMel Aitken ran from Upper Hutt, following the Hutt River to re-group.Trail to Petone and then the Wellington Bays coastline. Theoriginal plan was to finish at the Scottish clubrooms 15 minutes Around 52km, Emily had fallen behind Emma and Fiona againbefore the Saturday afternoon club runs started, providing and decided to leave the coastline and turn inland towards thea welcoming crowd for her finish. However, a missed turn Scottish clubrooms. Emily arrived at the clubrooms with fiveafter 3km sent Mel down the wrong side of the river and to minutes remaining of the six hours, so spent those minutesan eventual dead-end 3km later, requiring her to backtrack. running loops of the adjacent park, recording 56.40km for herConsequently, Mel’s eventual finish came in Houghton Bay run.after 73.20km. This distance is a NZ record, though I am unsure Fiona and Emma continued around Wellington’s southernwhether the virtual nature of the run prevents it from being coastline to Owhiro Bay, where Fiona pulled away a little fromformally recognised by Athletics NZ. Emma towards the end. Emma recorded 64.26km and FionaFiona, Emily and Emma all set off from Eastbourne and followed 65.56km.the coast all the way around the bays. Given the strong Elsewhere, Dawn Tuffrey ran 69.09km, Deborah Breedtnortherlies, it was a brave course choice. A difficult first 16km 58.58km, Andrew McDowall 72.84km, Wayne Botha 60.47kmeventually allowed them to turn southward and enjoy some and Stuart Hughes 41.71km.assistance for the next 14km. Beyond that, their run alternated Vetline - October 2020 17
