Marysville Marathon 2009
Sunday, 08 November 2009 09:00 - 17:00 (AEST)
Marysville
VIC
Australia
VIDEO and IMAGES of the
Marysville Marathon Festival - Our new website is now online
Video of approximately 12 minutes of Marysville Marathon Festival by Barrry Thomas, Video Vision can by viewed at http://www.gomarysville.com/video/31ep4.htm. If your broadband connection is slow you may need to pause the play button for about one minute.
Images can be viewed at http://www.supersportimages.com/
More images can be viewed at
http://picasaweb.google.com/brettsrunforcanteen/MVM20092#5402470053851071106
More images are viewable to Fans of the Marysville Marathon Festival page on Facebook. Images are from the pre-race dinner and the following events day.
Our thanks go to those who made all these images available so rapidly after the event.
The following blank certificates can be printed and fillied in with your finishing time, obtained from the results page. Those who entered on race day may have to be patient for a few days before their names appear within the official results - we are slowly getting there though.
marathon certificate (Westpac Inc).doc
half certificate.doc
10 km certificate.doc
3 km certificate.doc
The vast majority of results are correct and listed on this site via the link on the Events tab.
We are slowly working through the remaing issues with respect to timing or other discrepancies in a manner that if correct, fair and satisfactory to all. We thank those of you who alerted of to these cases, and for your patience, as our small team works hard to resolve them.
Marysville Marathon Festival Results
>
> Feedback we received on Festival day and subsequently in numerous emails
> and phone calls indicates that participants and well-wishers were very
> happy with the outcome, as we together showed great support for
> rebuilding the community, while participating in an arduous but
> triumphant Festival.
>
> On behalf of all who participated, thank you most sincerely to the small
> army of volunteers, who worked long, hard hours on the day to make this
> one of Marysville’s great days.
>
> There have been delays in processing all registrants, so that Race
> Results appearing under the Event/Results tab list only those who
> registered before race day. This is because large numbers of manual
> registrations need to be entered into the database before complete
> records can appear on the website. We ask that you be understanding of
> this time delay, needed to include all entrants. We expect that full
> results will appear in a few days. Only 11 people took the option of registering for electronic timing for the 3 km Run/Walk. The place getters for the first three males in the 3 km and the first female in the 3 km were measured manually, but we would still like to hear from the 2nd and 3rd female. There is a query about 4th placing in the 10 km male event, currently listed as the next runner for that placing. For the 10 km, Half Marathon and Marathon there are a small number of results with no personal details associated so if you have a query send it to -- Damien at tomatotiming@bigpond.com . The clock on the finish line was zeroed to the start of the Marathon (which started at 09:10am).
>
> On the morning of Sunday 8th November we had 2000 people already registered and we were rather overwhelmed
> by the groundswell of wonderful support shown by so many registrants.
> The unexpectedly large numbers of people who registered on the day (estimated to
> be close to 1000) stretched our resources, which also resulted in
> long queues at registration. We apologise for this and thank you for
> showing such patience at registration, bib pick-up and at event starts,
> especially for the 10km run, which was significantly delayed as a
> consequence. Four batches of t-shirts had to be ordered to cope with the number of participants and even that was not enough, so they should all be in the mail in the next week (or direct enquiries to Cassandra Church, Race Secretary). Merchandise in the form of Marysville Marathon Cool-Max t-shirts and singlets, as well as caps and mugs, will be available shortly for online ordering.
There was insufficient time between the start of the half marathon over at the caravan park and the start of the 10 km and 3 km races at Gallipoli Park, so the timing mat for the start was only used for the later events. This meant that there needed to be no rush until crossing the timing mat. There was a timing mat placed at the entrance to the oval for the finishers but the runners had to run nearly a full lap and their details and a few messages or team announcements were not available by the time they crossed in front of the race announcer. This feature will work better next year, as well as use of runners lists for spectators to cheer them on by name.
Boy was it hot - not our plan at all! And boy did you drink! Melbourne's average high for November is 22 degrees and Marysville is often a few degrees cooler. The temperatures had rapidly risen over the previous few days and across the state temperatures were 10-15 degrees above average. The marathon and half-marathon runners were somewhat taunted by the cool Taggerty and Steavenson Rivers running alongside them, though providing a wonderful place to cool off after the run for everyone. If nothing else, the heat provides a message about bushfire season preparation and global warming. The heat meant that rightly everyone kept well hydrated before their events and during the waits, which then stretched our supplies of drinks and cups out on the course. Fruit, lollies and some ice were meant to be distributed around the course but these were unfortunately only available at the recovery area, and soon consumed. There were 2000 showbags made up so these were not available to everyone. Next year we will have a finish line gantry capable of displaying our banners and hanging the bell for you to ring on finishing. Again, we apologise and will be able to markedly improve the situation next year. Otherwise it's great to hear your encouraging comments and appreciation of the t-shirts and, for the marathon and half-marathon runners, the medallions. If you missed out on a certificate you can download one from our website.
>
> Other Issues at Registration, on the Course or at the Finish
>
> Marathon
> We are not aware of any major issues arising from the marathon, though it was a
> gruelling course. One runner was given a red half marathon bib number at registration which made it difficult to identify her by other runners but the electronic tag was correct. It will begin two hours earlier in future years, having been initially set at 9 am to allow Melbourne visitors to traverse the Black Spur to Marysville with adequate time. There were no reported issues or accidents reported on the Black Spur, although parking will be improved next year in Marysville. The other events follow sequentially, allowing more participants to attend the awards presentation at the end of the marathon. Unfortunately the start times for the marathon and 10 km event were delayed by ten and twenty minutes respectively so the finishers for these events and the 3 km distance dovetailed into the finish area within a short timeframe.
> Half-Marathon
> No reported issues, apart from red bib numbers running out for a few, necessitating the use of white 10 km (1000 numbers) for them. At the diversion along Yellow Dog Road for the 10 km runners they were all advised that this was only for the 10 km Run. It was tough and hot nevertheless.
> 10 km event - Female
> An issue regarding third place in this event was resolved when we were made aware that the electronic tag had been used in the later 3 km event and results were amended accordingly.
> Good effort all round.
> 10 km event - Male
The unexpected demand caused us to run out of bib numbers for 10 km event, the most popular, which meant that some late entrants were recorded while wearing 3 km bibs although their electronic tags should enable top three placings to be awarded. If we can't identify all of the top three placings in the 10 km male event and 3 km female event we would like to hear from anyone who can assist us with names and approximate times. We regret that this has occurred and will ensure that sufficient bibs are available next time to cope with last minute demand. Early registration is recommended for serious competitors.
After the Yellow Dog Road loop the nine leading competitors in the 10km were directed back to the finish, rather than the section to the falls, which we regret. The marshall was overwhelmed with runners needing directions and discussed signage was not provided by event agency. With the huge organisational tasks involved for four committee members the volunteers were not fully briefed in the days before the event as was envisaged. Bicycle pilot rider(s) was arranged but unfortunately he had tyre problems leading out the 10 km before the turn off to Yellow Dog Road. Maps and course descriptions were available on the website and it was intended that registrants and volunteers familiarise themselves with the course beforehand. We apologise to those athletes affected and we will be listing those runners in a separate 5.8 km event, with prizes awarded to the first three placegetters. Any runners not appearing on that list are asked to contact us with approximate times. As well we will be ensuring that all course marshalls are absolutely clear about where each event turns.
> 3 km event – Female
> Use of timing ankle bracelet was optional for this event, given that
> many were either walking or running as a show of support, and not competing
> in a 3km race. The unforeseen consequence was that some who WERE racing
> did not have timing bracelets, meaning that their winning finishes were
> not recorded. We will endeavour to use finish photographs to resolve
> the situation, but cannot be sure that this will occur. Next year we plan to have a separate 3 km Walk with no timing and for a few extra dollars a timed 3 km Run with electronic timing.
> 3km event – Male
> Similar to above, the optional use of ankle bracelets meant that the
> winner and placings were not recorded because they were not wearing
> timing bracelets. Fortunately, in this case, all three actual trophy
> winners were identified, so that their names and
> correct placings could be recorded and an informal presentation made on the day. Thank you for your help.
> Ultramarathon
> Within the congested crowd of finishers, the leading ultramarathon
> runner was not directed to his additional 3km loop after
> finishing the marathon as had been planned by the committee, which affected finishing positions. This was
> resolved by the competitors themselves, and we are most grateful to you
> for doing so, with prizes going to both worthy contestants.
Photographs
Supersportimages is able to currently display photos of those who entered online but the 1000 entries made on the day will need to be entered manually, a process which should be complete by Monday November 16, by which time those additional photographs will be available for you to view. You will be sent an email by Supersportimages when all of the photos are available. If you have a special photo that you purchase we would appreciate a copy sent to us with your permission to use to promote the Marysville Marathon Festival.
>
> Thanks to all who assisted with resolution of our teething problems –
> come back next year and see how much things have changed for the better,
> a large part of which will have been due to your participation in a
> great day which will be seen as a pivotal milestone in the rebirth of
> this much-loved community.
Media Release 9 November, 2009
The inaugural Marysville Marathon Festival staged yesterday in challenging conditions was a great success. The Black Saturday bushfires practically destroyed the tourist town of Marysville, including my clinic and home, despite my efforts. As an ultramarathon runner I determined in that first week that we must have our own marathon, in defiance of the calamity that overwhelmed us. The support from Australia and overseas in the recovery process has been heartwarming, and the Marathon Festival allows runners and walkers to have an enjoyable visit and demonstrate their solidarity.
Delays in the approval for the use of the Buxton-Marysville Road meant that the scheduled date in late September had to be moved to Sunday November 8, aware of the Melbourne Marathon a month earlier and the “Melbourne Cup weekend” just before. Preliminary work underway, in August the arduous organisational tasks finally began with only a small committee – Cassandra Church (Race Secretary), Neil McKern and Fiona Dixon – and never stopped until the last runner crossed the finish line. We were assisted by sports event agency Jeremy Francis and Andrew O’Loughlin from Limelight Sports. We even had a night shift, and the publicity drive was so successful that 2000 entries were recorded, with a further 1000 who signed up on the day. The events were the Westpac Marysville Marathon (optional 3 km extra for the Ultramarathon), Half Marathon, and a very popular 3 km Run/Walk, with the 10 km Run/Walk attracting the most interest and nearly 1000 competitors in that section alone. The Marathon course followed the Steavenson River down to Buxton and back, then used Lady Talbot Drive, a dirt road following the Taggerty River, with the last section up Falls Road to the Steavenson Falls, open with special approval. The shorter events covered the latter parts of the course, with the starts within the township and all finishing on Gallipoli Park oval.
An unseasonable burst of hot weather in late spring, ten to fifteen degrees above average across the state, meant a top of 31 degrees in Marysville. Race start for the Marathon had been set at 9 am for the proposed September date to allow visitors time to travel from Melbourne up the Black Spur. Parking was at a premium in a town that hasn’t seen such a crowd this year, and due to the interest generated the registration desk was soon stretched and drink stations on the course struggled at times to maintain the demand. Next year it is envisaged to start the Marathon at 7 am, followed sequentially by the shorter runs and hold the Festival in late September. The challenging Marathon was won in 3:03 by John McKenzie, who won the Traralgon Marathon this year in 2:34.
Despite some organisational hitches, the overwhelming response was of praise from our visitors for a grand day that had been organised and for our volunteers who assisted on race day. Governor David De Kretser and his wife, as well as Premier John Brumby, participated in the 3 km distance, while Bill Shorten, Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Bushfire Reconstruction ran the 10 km Run and Minister Tim Holding, Minister for Tourism & Major Events tackled the Half Marathon. Mayor Lyn Gunter, Victorian parliamentarian Ben Hardman and Christine Nixon, Chairperson of VBRRA assisted with awards and race starts with one of the bells salvaged from my home. Having such an event is such a boost to local spirits, helping to encourage residents and businesses to return, and we would gladly support anyone who would like to host an event in our area.
Thank you to all who enabled the Festival to be such a success, too numerous to name here but acknowledged on our website www.marysvillemarathon.com.au , with particular mention of our major sponsors Westpac, Tourism Victoria and Alexandra Rotary Club. In 2010 we hope for a speedier approval for the course, more interest in terms of sponsorship and volunteers helping to plan such a major undertaking. I am pleased to announce that we raised over $20,000 for local SES, CFA and Kingbilli Wildlife Shelter, in part due to discounted or volunteered services. In memory of a town and those inhabitants who could not be there, towards a brighter future. Dr. Lachlan Fraser, Race Director
Race History
The beautiful town of Marysville was all but destroyed during the Black Saturday bushfires of February 7th 2009. Tragically, 34 lives were lost and over 400 homes and other buildings were destroyed. Former residents are trying to rebuild their lives and homes, finding it difficult to also give time to rebuilding their shattered community.
This is where we can all help, by participating in the Marysville Marathon Festival, an event designed to re-invigorate the community, tourism and pride in this once-gracious town, noted for its energising environment, country charm and relaxing ambience. The Festival aims to build confidence that the community can once again become a focus for tranquil living in an idyllic setting, a role it has played so well for more than a century.
For more on the creation of the Marysville Marathon, initially started as a list of town's folk who survived, click here
Established in 1863 as a stop-over on the goldfields to Woods Point, it was an easy-going town for the locals and much cherished by tourists from wide and far. There were many tourist accomodation options and conference centres, as well as dozens of businesses and shops.
Marysville is an all season destination, which has had so many things to see and do. The community of Marysville WILL rebuild, and the town will once again come alive. We, the community of Marysville want to encourage people to support our town, and help us rebuild.
Marysville Marathon Festival is an event to raise community spirit, to allow runners from afar to show their support and to raise funds for the emergency services and wildlife shelters who worked so hard during the terrible month of February. This will be the first event of many to come, with the plan of giving the Marysville Marathon Festival a regular spot on the running calendar. There will be four events -- a marathon (42.195km), half marathon (21.1km), 10km Run/Walk and a 3km Run/Walk. We encourage not only runners to take part in the event, but skiers, cyclists, walkers and communties in general. Wheelchairs and strollers are allowed, particularly on the 3 km event which is all bitumen, but there are some sections of dirt/gravel road on the longer races. Dogs on lead are permitted but would have to be left with our prearranged official at the entrance to Steavenson Falls Reserve for the longer three events.
Come and support us - we need YOU to help us in the rebuilding process. So please, put on those running shoes and head to Marysville. We still need helpers to organise this event and make it run on the day, since the locals are so preoccupied with rebuilding their lives, homes and town.
Please let us know if you or your group can help with running this event, or if you know a sponsor who could help in any way.
Accommodation
Click here for accommodation info
Race Director
The Race Director is Dr. Lachlan Fraser (click here for a video message from the director) who lived and worked in Marysville as the town's GP since 2000. He attempted to save his house from the inferno, suffered some injuries and only escaped with his two dogs and empty car. The house and nearby clinic were lost, but since then he has worked to draw the community back together and a clinic has been established nearby at Buxton. He salvaged two bells from home and the races will commence by ringing the bell from the east, from Mexico, and finishers can ring the bell from the west, from Switzerland. More on his story by googling "Lachlan Fraser Marysville" or read these articles:
News Article 1
News Article 2
Information about Marysville and the reconstruction process can be found on www.marysville.vic.au
For the thread regarding the search for "Doc Lach" by his running mates to see if he survived, click here.
The fire vapourised all of the thirty plus medallions for marathons and ultramarathons achieved by Race Director, Lachlan Fraser, except for the 25th anniversary medallion for The Great Train Race (against Puffing Billy). He is still keen to recover some of those, including Melbourne, Sydney, Gold Coast, Canberra, Shepparton, Williamstown, Great Ocean Road, 6 Foot Track, Great Wall of China and Silicon Valley.
Photography by Don Wilson
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