The annual Norfolk Island Around the Island Relay, hosted by Athletics Norfolk Island, unfolded with displays of endurance and camaraderie. A total of 86 entrants took on the challenging 25km course that encircles around the island, starting and finishing at Gallows Gate. The race is one of many races that circumnavigates the Pacific Islands by foot.

Individual 25km Run

Seven runners braved the terrain and 675 of elevation for the individual 25km run across Norfolk Island. Doug Donaldson took line honors. Close behind was Pauly Browne, who improves year on year, earning him second place. Erica Sterling secured third place, rounding out the top three. Yes, there are Strava segments for parts of the course, to try and get the crown!

“I think this is the fourth time I’ve done it now, and I used to run it all the time in teams as a kid. I just love how it’s about enjoying the day and the run, and everyone encourages each-other. It’s a bit of a family event for us. Mum normally takes out the walk, dad used to run the whole thing and now my brother and I run it most years.” Doug Donaldson – Individual 5km Winner.

Individual Walk

Equally challenging was the individual walk, given the course’s varied landscape. All walkers, both individuals and teams, set off at 6 a.m. Leading the walkers was Gai Disley, who not only was the first to finish but also clinched second place in the handicap category. Among the male walkers, Matt Tremethick was the first to cross the finish line, while Peter Glass claimed first place when handicap calculations were applied.

Team Event

With many hands making light work, the teams took on the 25km course. In the running teams category, the Pocket Rockets soared to victory. Team members Fred O’Connor, Zeta Menzies, Rex Moore, James Christian-Bailey, Jack McGillycuddy, and Alba Menghetti combined their strengths to secure first place. Your Turn, who delivered a solid performance and were right on the tail of the Pocket Rockets at the finish line. Third place went to Michael and Lynne Harrison, tourists from Noosa, Australia.

The walking teams category attracted the largest group of participants, with ten teams comprising 43 athletes. The Happy Wanderers took first place. A close second was Norfolk Island Yoga, whose performance reflected the strong community spirit.

The success of the relay sets the tone for the next event on the Norfolk Island Athletics calendar. On December 7th, athletes will gather for the Gift, featuring races in the 100m, 400m, and the Mile. More information via Athletics Norfolk Island Facebook and website

—ENDS–