The singer was worried now. The South African had let her down. What was the second verse of the Australian National Anthem, again?

Porto Alegre

World Masters Athletics Championships 2013 – Brazil

Our Star performer at the World Masters Athletics Championships was Jackie Bezuidenhout. She eased her way through preliminary rounds to run her fastest times in 2 years in her two sprint victories. She thought she “just had a lucky break in getting a good start” and just “had that extra kick” at the finish to win the 100m but she was better prepared than she thought. In the 200m she believed she “was the underdog”. She said she was 3rd coming out of the bend but “held her form, didn’t panic and only realised in the last few metres” that she could win. She humbly credits her coach Ron Bendall for giving her the edge but she had to put in many hours at the gym. The seriousness with which she undertook the task was all about shaking off a ‘consistent’ tag that she had been lumbered with; always up there but so often second placed. In winning the sprint double she had to turn the tables on rival and Aussie team mate Gianna Mogentale.

Gianna didn’t go home empty handed though, winning the 400m and coming 3

rd

to Jackie in the 100m, then second in the 200m. It didn’t all end there. Gianna and Jackie were joined by Janet Naylon in the (W35) 4x100 relay which they won. Then came the 4x400 where Gianna and Jackie joined a team to again run as 35 year olds and came third, bringing Jackie’s total to 3 gold and a bronze. Gianna picked up 2 gold, a silver and 2 bronze. Neville McIntyre proved himself again in international competition by winning the

400m and coming second in both the 100m and 200m. A good haul. Cristine Suffolk, always cheerful and keen, came home with a bronze medal in the 8km Cross Country, a good event for her. Mary Thomas had mixed success, just missing out on the medals in the Weight Throw but making sure of her best event, the Javelin, with another solid gold performance and picking up a bronze in the Weight Pentathlon. For most events just making a final was a challenge with rounds of heats and semis to get through. Terrible weather interfered with proceedings at times, interrupting events and unsettling some athletes. As this was the Americas, a high standard of performance had been anticipated. This meant some of our more talented athletes didn’t make it all the way, but at least they know they had a shot at it, and even a distant placing in

2 0 1 3 W O R L D M A S T E R S A H L E T I C S P O R T O A L E G R E

WWW.NSWMASTERSATHLETICS.ORG.AU

ISSUE 4, DEC, 2013

2

Krzysztof Wardecki

Copocabana

Beach and

Iguazu Falls

tough competition at the highest level of our sport is a great moment in one’s life. Krzysztof Wardecki who once represented Poland as a junior went with a plan of just making all his finals, knowing he would be facing a high level of competition. It was then just a matter of finishing as high up as he could. He was very happy with his efforts, making all his finals but finishing out of the medals. He finished 6th in 100m, 7th in 200m and 8th in 400m. Jill Taylor was caught out by some horrific officiating in some of the throws events. Firstly in the shot put, when less people turned up than were declared and after deciding to initially run as qualifiers, the officials changed their minds several times, the first alteration being to just have a straight final, then have a qualifying round to choose 8 immediately followed by a final, then it was changed back to a qualifier to select a larger finals group of 12 with a final the next day, then back to selecting a final 8, after it had already begun. Jill finished 9th so was just out of the final. Frustrating for her!

Mistakes were also made in the Hammer, by students with no experience or training being in charge of the measuring! She went there with a recent performance history that should have earned her 2 medals, but these are the kinds of things that can sometimes happen to us when it matters most, and the lesson learnt is overcoming and moving on. Apart from a 9th in Shot Put Jill managed a 9th in Discus, 7th in Hammer, 11th in Weight Throw, 7th in Weight Pentathlon. Glenys Whitehead performed to her usual high standard but just missed out on medals with a fourth in the hammer, 5th in Weight Pentathlon, 6th in the Weight Throw, 8th in the Shot put and 14th in Discus. Always game for a run in the biggest competition of all, Karen Petley said

before going she knew she wouldn’t be a medal chance but was unable to stay away and didn’t fair badly at all, enjoying a 9th in the Cross country and 11th in the 10000m. She was keen for the holiday afterward, travelling with her mother. John Fienieg managed a creditable 6th in the 400m Hurdles but was eliminated in the qualifying rounds of the sprints, of which there were several. Stuart Paterson didn’t progress through to the finals of the 800 or 1500, finishing 18th and 27th respectively. He came 39th in the Cross Country. Adriana Van Bockel had a busy time, finishing 15th in Discus, 12th in Shot, 11th in Hammer, 15th in Javelin, 13th in Weight Throw and 15th in Weight Pentathlon. John and Jacqui Walton both struck a bit

Glenys Whitehead

Don Mathewson and Cristine Suffolk

3

of bad luck sustaining injuries in the lead up to the event. Jacqui hadn’t recovered in time from a knee operation and couldn’t compete but John did compete albeit with a sciatic nerve problem. However he couldn’t manage a full effort as he couldn’t stride out and ended up 19th in Cross Country, 23rd in 10000m and 12th in Steeplechase. It’s a mystery how he got over the steeples? Injury didn’t stop Don Mathewson either, who overcame bleeding on the brain a couple of months earlier. He too was slowed significantly by the loss of training yet still managed a creditable 8th and 9th in the 5000m and 10000m; a triumph of the human spirit. Going to Brazil involved high cost especially if you added on some tourist treats, and who wouldn’t want to visit Iguazu Falls, Rio de Janeiro or Machu Picchu? All relatively close by but still requiring flights and visas. Janet Naylon said she’d saved all year to get there. She should be pretty happy with her lot having made it to the semis in the 100 and finishing 6th in the long jump ahead of training partner Jackie Bezuidenhout and then nabbing a gold in the 4x100m relays. She was also team manager so had a bit of working out to do with nearly everything being in the Portuguese language.

RESULTS FROM PORTO ALEGRE 100m W45 J. Bezuidenhout 1 12.82 G. Mogentale 3 12.93 J. Naylon elim 14.90 M45 K. Wardecki 6 11.97 M55 J. Fienieg elim 13.72 M70 N. McIntyre 2 13.39 200m W45 J. Bezuidenhout 1 26.49 G. Mogentale 3 26.63 M45 K. Wardecki 7 24.41 M55 J. Fienieg elim 29.46 M70 N. McIntyre 2 27.51 400m W45 G. Mogentale 1 1.02.18 M45 K. Wardecki 8 55.23 M55 J. Fienieg elim 1.05.43 M70 N. McIntyre 1 1.04.70 800m S. Paterson elim 2.39.33 1500m W40 C. Suffolk 6 5.34.35 M55 S. Paterson elim 5.28.67 5000m W55 K. Petley (NZ) 11 22.19.20 M65 D. Mathewson 9 20.09.28 10000m M65 D. Mathewson 8 42.31.61 J. Walton 23 53.58.32 Cross Country W40 C. Suffolk 3 32.55 W55 K. Petley (NZ) 9 36.38 M55 S. Paterson 39 36.15 M65 J. Walton 19 39.39 400m Long Hurdles M55 J. Fienieg 6 1.15.44 2000m Steeplechase M65 J. Walton 12 11.11.36

Long Jump W45 J. Naylon 6 4.19 J. Bezuidenhout 7 4.09 High Jump M55 J. Fienieg 6 1.15.44 Discus W45 G. Whitehead 14 22.09 W60 A. Van Bockel 15 14.31 W65 M. Thomas 6 23.30 W55 J. Taylor 9 22.18 Shot put W55 J. Taylor 9 9.06 W45 G..Whitehead 8 8.59 W60 A. Van Bockel 12 5.79 W65 M. Thomas 8 8.08 Hammer W60 A. Van Bockel 11 21.27 W65 M. Thomas 4 26.56 W45 G. Whitehead 4 35.12 W55 J. Taylor 7 34.24 Javelin W60 A. Van Bockel 15 13.44 W65 M. Thomas 1 24.51 Wt Throw W45 G. Whitehead 6 10.00 W55 J. Taylor 11 10.68 W60 A. Van Bockel 13 8.77 W65 M. Thomas 6 10.76 Wt Pentathlon W45 G. Whitehead 6 3100 W55 J. Taylor 7 3222 W60 A. Van Bockel 15 2061 W65 M. Thomas 3 3651 Relays 4x100 W35 J. Bezuidenhout 1 52.44 G. Mogentale J. Naylon W35 4x400 J. Bezuidenhout 3 4.15.90 G. Mogentale

Clay shows them how

Former Australian representative in Decathlon, Clay Tompkins was featured on the Athletics NT Website in August. He was heading an education and coaching clinic for the locals and during his stint entertained them with a successful Australian Masters record attempt in Long Jump at Arafura Stadium. He was described by NT board member Bruce McGeorge as ‘an excellent coach’ and attendances were noted as ‘exceptional’. He went on to say, “The quality of coaching was outstanding, and was of a positive nature… “ You can see it here: http://www.ntathletics.org.au/News/ArticleID/23421/ArtMID/1423#.UkFCaZ2_DwM.gmail

Thanks to the following personnel. For proof reading and advice: Lynette Smith who always does a sterling job. To the

contributors: Garry Womsley and Margaret Walker. For photos: Jill Taylor, Andrew Atkinson-Howatt, Robyn Basman, Cristine

Suffolk, NT Masters, Vickie Townsend, Renae Knowles, David Tarbotton.

4

2014 Australian Masters Championships Saturday 8th – Monday 10th March 2014

(New dates now avoid Easter) Queens Domain Athletic Centre

Hobart Tasmania www.tasmastersathletics.org.au

Hobart, Tasmania Australia’s most distinctive city, and Tasmania’s capital combines heritage charm and cultural di-versity in a setting of exceptional beauty in Southern Tasmania.

Lonely Planet recently awarded Hobart as one of the top ten spots (the only Australian location) in its Best in Travel 2013 guide.

Arts, sports, theatre, history and most importantly – food are what make Hobart the perfect city to explore and its surroundings too. In a 90 minute drive from Hobart there is a feast of things to see and do – whether you are driving or choose to join a tour – from the pristine waters of Bruny Island, the mesmerising history of Port Arthur, or the attitude challenging MONA.

Awards Dinner

& Presentations

Sunday 9th March 2014

Events Schedule

Saturday 8th March 2014 Session 1 (8am-1pm) 10 000m Weight throw (Men), 100m heats, Long Jump (Women),

Long Hurdles, Shot Put (Women) Session 2 (2.30-5.30pm) 400m heats, Javelin (Men) 1500 walk, Discus (Women) 1500m, Long Jump (Men) 100m finals Sunday 9th March 2014 Session 1 (8am-12.30pm)5000m, Hammer (Men) 200m heats, Javelin (Women) 5000m Walk, Triple Jump 200m finals Session 2 (1.30pm-4.30pm) 400m finals, Discus (Men) Steeples Hammer (Women) 4 x 100 Relays High Jump Monday 10th March 2014 Session 1 (7am) Cross Country/Road Walks Session 2 (8am-12noon) 60m heats, Weight Throw (Women) 800m, Shot Put (Men) 60m finals, Pole Vault Sprint Hurdles, 4 x 400 Relays A crèche will be available during competition

5

NEW MEMBERS Welcome to our new members. Maria Cimino 40-44 Kriszta Kovacs 40-44 Lenore Lambert 40-44 Sylvette Wearne 45-49 Rina Flynn 50-54 Sharon Scouller 50-54 Gabrielle Whelan 50-54 Mandy McCartney 50-54 Diane Celnikier 55-59 Robyn Eyears 60-64 Stephen Bullock 30-34 Sameer Kunwar 30-34 Rishav Suwal 40-44 Andrew Rodda 40-44 Steve Whelan 45-49 Kimber Rothwell 45-49 Paul Kelaher 45-49 Barry Mayo 50-54 Keith Edwards 60-64 Colin Scott 60-64

The online registration tool for the 2014 Nationals in Hobart is up and running at www.amahobart2014.com.au

We still need a new website officer – not a paid position.

And we need a new Editor as well. This is my last issue. ED

ANSW State Champs Feb 22 & 23 2014

Will be held at Hunter Sports, Glendale. Don’t forget to book accommodation soon!

FIVE OF OUR MEMBERS TACKLE

The State Marathon Sunday, 22nd September, 2013. Five of our members contested the 2013 version of the State Marathon. Run in conjunction with the Blackmore’s Running Festival, it is one of the most challenging Marathons in Australia. Starting in North Sydney, the race heads across the Sydney Harbour Bridge and loops through the city, running through the Domain, past the SCG and Fox Studios before heading into the historical Centennial Park. Once out of the park, the race heads back into the city and close to the finish at the Sydney Opera House. However, while the finish is tantalisingly close, another 11km needs to be completed through Circular Quay, the Rocks area and the Pyrmont waterfront along the concrete roadways which includes a couple of ups and downs before finally heading back to the finish. It is definitely not easy. Danny Burgess followed his strong showing in the State Half Marathon and was our first member home in an outstanding time of 2:46:51. Bob Connolley continues to run well in distance events and was next home in a good time of 3:38:11. Mary Sheehan has also been outstanding this year and continued that form to finish in a time of 3:42:37. EJ Davie tackled this event for the second time and toughed it out to be our fourth finisher in a time of 4:17:11. Seventy year old John Waddell was our fifth member home and crossed the line in a time of 5:25:23. Congratulations to all our members who completed this gruelling race.

Full results as follows:

By Garry Womsley

TALK TO US We are concerned that some members may find themselves without a team during relays, perhaps because their club is too small or geographically isolated, and we encourage anyone who feels at a disadvantage because of the rule change earlier this year regarding Masters teams to contact any of the committee whose names and numbers appear in Waratah. You can always

talk to us at any meet as well.

The day before the AMA Champs begin… AMA PENTATHLON CHAMPIONSHIPS FRIDAY 7th MARCH, 2014 St Leonards Athletic Centre St Leonards Rd, LAUNCESTON, TASMANIA

Entries close: FRIDAY 7th FEBRUARY, 2014

Track and Field Pentathlon Throws Pentathlon

WOMEN MEN ALL COMPETITORS

100m 200m Hammer

Shot put Javelin Shot Put

Long Jump Long Jump Discus

Javelin Discus Javelin

800m 1500m Weight Throw

Find the entry form on our websitewill not be a

1. DANNY BURGESS 2:46:51 2. BOB CONNOLLEY 3:38:11 3. MARY SHEEHAN 3:42:37 4. EJ DAVIE 4:17:11 5. JOHN WADDELL 5:25:23

6

TAKING ON Sydney TowerSydney Tower Stair Challenge – Sunday, 18th August, 2013.

he Sydney Tower Stair Challenge has been in existence

since the 1990’s. The event used to be held at lunchtime

on a Friday and used to consist of one mass start mixed

race consisting of around ten athletes. The event has come a

long way since then. The 2013 version was held on a Sunday and

had a total of 782 finishers and there were events for teams of

4, teams of 2, individual runners, individual walkers and races

for the male and female elite athletes. Due to the large

competitor numbers, most of the events are no longer a mass

start. Competitors now line up with others in their category and

are started individually in 20 second intervals. It is still possible

to pass other competitors but the staircase is now less

congested and a lot safer.

From bottom to top, the Sydney Tower staircase consists of

1504 steps, 102 floors and most of it is in a spiral configuration.

The race starts in Pitt Street Mall

and then enters the Westfield

building. There are a few stairs and

passage ways to start with before

the metal spiral staircase starts. It is

very humid and airless in the spiral

and a real challenge. From time to

time, there are signs on the wall

showing the floor number. When

you make it to the top, there is a

short run to the finish chute which

is very much welcomed. You are

then treated to 360 degree views

from the observation deck of

Sydney Tower. The only problem is

that there is quite a line up to get

back to ground level in the lift.

Garry Womsley was contesting his

sixth Tower run and knew what to

expect. However, his last one was 5

years ago so he was a little

apprehensive as well. He set

himself the goal of taking two steps at a time (only 752 steps

instead of 1504!) and passing as many other competitors as he

could. He started strongly and kept going to finish in a time of

11:17. He placed 37th overall and 1st in the M50-59 age category.

He also passed ten competitors on the way up to the top.

Kirsty Curnow was doing her first Tower run and entered with a

group of friends from her local gym who were also doing their

first. Kirsty who is a very happy, enthusiastic and encouraging

person, carried that into this race and had the time of her life

despite finding the race grueling. She could be heard “yahooing”

as she went up the stairs which was great to hear. She finished

in a time of 15:13 and was the 60th female and 212th overall.

Multi-eventer Simon Butler-White has been known to do

distance races in the past but had never done anything like this

previously. He found it tough and sweated bucket loads but he

got there in a good time of 15:34. He was the 162nd male and

231st overall.

ower running has never been so popular and there are

races coming up in Adelaide and Melbourne for those who

want to challenge themselves further. The good news is

that neither event has as many steps as Sydney Tower!

Full results as follows:

1) GARRY WOMSLEY – 11:17 37

th overall – 1

st in M50-59 age category.

2) KIRSTY CURNOW – 15:13 60

th female – 212

th overall

3) SIMON BUTLER-WHITE – 15:34 162

nd male – 231

st overall

By Garry Womsley

T

T

Afterward Garry was kept busy responding to cards and letters from his many admirers. The public speaking engagements were also taking up much of his time. He began to dream of retirement.

7

TWENTY ONE MEMBERS TACKLE The State Half ANSW STATE HALF MARATHON, Sunday, 8th September, 2013 – Lake Gillawarna

In beautiful early spring weather, twenty one of our members

tackled this year’s State Half Marathon. Due to remedial works

on part of the existing course, there had to be some changes

made for this year’s event. Instead of the usual two large laps,

this year’s course was over three smaller laps. Unfortunately,

after the race it was reported by a number of athletes, who

measured the course on their GPS watches, that it was in fact

shorter than 21.1km. Some athletes reported that it was up to

800m short, while others said that it was between 200m and

500m short. It can be said that GPS watches are not always

reliable in different terrains and the various distances athletes

had on their watches after this race is a case in point. However,

it should be noted that none of the GPS watches recorded the

distance as being correct or longer. Later an investigation

revealed that a spreadsheet error was responsible and ANSW

and all athletes were notified but placings were allowed to

stand as it was unlikely they would have changed had the

course been any longer. This is no reflection on Western District

Joggers or Athletics NSW who do a great job organizing this

event, and we are told it will be corrected for next year’s race.

Despite the distance issue, a number of our members put in

outstanding performances on the day. Danny Burgess was our

first member home in an outstanding time of 1:14:22. He was

also 3rd overall and 1st in the M35-44 age category. Richard

Palmer also put in a strong showing to be our second member

across the line. He placed 10th overall in a great time of 1:17:13.

He also placed 2nd in the M45-54 age category. Dennis Wylie

continued his great form to be our third runner home and 19th

overall in a time of 1:21:12. He also placed 2nd in the M55-64

age category. John Peter was our next member to finish in a

time of 1:22:45. He was 22nd overall and 3rd in the M45-54 age

category. Robyn Basman has been in great form this season and

was our first female home. She placed 30th overall in a time of

1:24:43. She also placed 1st in the W45-54 age category. Ian

Rose was just behind her in 31st place in a time of 1:25:31. Frank

Scorzelli ran strongly to finish in a time of 1:28:30, to beat the

magical 90 minute barrier. He was 39th overall and 1st in the

M65+ age category. Other members who received medals in

their age categories were: - Linda Gard (2nd

in W45-54 age

category in 1:33:39), Mary Sheehan (1st in W55-64 age category

in 1:36:10), Gina Jessop (3rd

in W55-64 age category in 1:45:38),

Steve Napper (2nd in M65+ age category in 1:35:07) and Dennis

Williams (3rd in M65+ age category in 1:41:51).

Full results as follows:

1) DANNY BURGESS (3) – 1:14:22 – 1st

in M35-44 age category 2) RICHARD PALMER (10) – 1:17:13 – 2

nd in M45-54 age category

3) DENNIS WYLIE (19) – 1:21:12 – 1st

in M55-64 age category 4) JOHN PETER (22) – 1:22:45 – 3

rd in M45-54 age category

5) ROBYN BASMAN (30) – 1:24:43 – 1st

in W45-54 age category 6) IAN ROSE (31) – 1:25:31 7) FRANK SCORZELLI (39) – 1:28:30 – 1

st in M65+ age category

8) RON COZIJNSEN (52) – 1:31:30 9) RON SCHWEBEL (55) – 1:32:03 10) JOHN THOMPSON (56) – 1:32:34 11) GARRY WOMSLEY (58) – 1:32:51 12) LINDA GARD (62) – 1:33:39 – 2

nd in W45-54 age category

13) STEVE NAPPER (68) – 1:35:07 – 2nd

in M65+ age category 14) MARY SHEEHAN (73) – 1:36:10 – 1

st in W55-64 age category

15) BRIAN MACKIE (76) – 1:37:18 16) DENNIS WILLIAMS (86) – 1:41:51 – 3

rd in M65+ age category

17) EJ DAVIE (88) – 1:42:43 18) GINA JESSOP (103) – 1:45:38 – 3

rd in W55-64 age category

19) WAYNE GARD (112) – 1:48:23 20) ELWYN ELMS (141) – 1:55:53 21) BOB WARMOLL (165) – 2:08:57

3km Fun Run

Five of our members participated in the 3km fun run which was

also held on the day. Due to the works on the course, the usual

5km race was reduced. Doug Barrett was our first member

home in a great time of 11:55. He placed 1st in the M60-69 age

category. Noel Wright was next home in a time of 12:35. He

placed 2nd in the M60-69 age category. Dot Siepmann was our

Richard Palmer

8

I’m Doug. Don’t mess with me!

third member to finish in a time of 17:40. She placed 3rd in the

W60-69 age category. Ken Saunders was our next member

home in a time of 20:13. 85 year old Eddie McLean was the

oldest athlete in the race and finished in a time of 28:25.

Full results as follows:

1) DOUG BARRETT – 11:55 – 1st

in M60-69 age category 2) NOEL WRIGHT – 12:35 -2

nd in M60-69 age category

3) DOT SIEPMANN – 17:40 – 3rd

in W60-69 age category 4) KEN SAUNDERS – 20:13 5) EDDIE McLEAN – 28:25

By Garry Womsley

OUR MEMBERS GET A GOOD

Warm Up For Brazil Saturday, 28th September at Homebush Warm-up Track & Saturday, 5th October, 2013 at SOPAC. Thanks to Athletics NSW, our members who were going to the World Championships at Porto Alegre were able to get two vital warm ups before they left. Originally, the two meets were warm-ups for the upcoming All-Schools Championships but as there were no other opportunities at this time of year, the Masters members who were going to Brazil were also included.

Saturday, 28th September, 2013 8 of our members competed today. Jill Taylor, who has been in outstanding form in recent months, threw a personal best in the Shot Put (9.76m). Cristine Suffolk was very happy with her 1500m (5:32.65). Glenys Whitehead also threw well in both the Shot Put (8.90m) and Hammer (34.69m). Gianna Mogentale ran well in both the 100m (13.32sec) and 400m (1:01.53) as did Jackie Bezuidenhout in the 100m (12.92sec). Unfortunately, Cris Penn tore her hamstring in the early part of the 400m. We hope that she makes a very speedy recovery. JILL TAYLOR Hammer 36.81m 9

th overall

Shot Put 9.76m 7th

overall GLENYS WHITEHEAD Shot Put 8.90m 5

th overall

Hammer 34.69m 6th

overall CRISTINE SUFFOLK 1500m 5:32.65 13

th overall

STUART PATERSON 1500m 5:22.44 17th

overall JANET NAYLON Long Jump 3.96m 13

th overall

GIANNA MOGENTALE 100m 13.32 3rd

in heat 400m 1:01.53 2

nd in heat

JACKIE BEZUIDENHOUT 100m 12.92 1st

in heat

Saturday, 5th October, 2013 4 of our members competed today in their last hit out before leaving for Brazil. In much calmer conditions, Gianna Mogentale ran a faster 100m (12.89sec) than the previous week and also ran a good 200m (26.85sec). Jackie Bezuidenhout was again consistent in the 100m (13.00sec). Stuart Paterson also ran a strong 800m (2:40.34). We wish all of our members who are going to Brazil a happy and safe journey.

STUART PATERSON 800m 2:40.34 30th

overall GIANNA MOGENTALE 100m 12.89 11

th overall

200m 26.85 5th

overall JACKIE BEZUIDENHOUT 100m 13.00 14

th overall

JANET NAYLON 100m 14.96 – 23rd

overall

By Garry Womsley

Fernleigh 15 Held in Newcastle, The Fernleigh 15 has been phenomenally successful, attracting over a thousand entrants in only its second year. The unusual distance (15k) is now listed on the ANSW calendar. Scott Westcott’s organisation lent it an air of instant credibility, beckoning many Sydney runners to try it out.

The race follows the path of an old train line once used to

transport coal. It is now asphalted over but in places you can still see the old railway lines in places and you go through a train tunnel on your way. Today it is a recreation area for local people and used by runners, walkers and cyclists. Kurt Fearnley was there to take on his namesake in the wheelchair race.

The first 2k is uphill, then a gradual rise and fall until about the 6k mark when you descend for 3k before flattening out again. Runners head off in groups because of the narrow start.

Unusually, results are based on ‘net’ times. This makes it fair to everyone. Most

standard races still use traditional ‘gun time’ (the people at the back are said to start at the same time as the people at the front after the gun goes off despite the fact that they may take several minutes to cross the start line). Net time is your actual time. ED

M35 Simon White 55.02.49

M60 Dennis Wylie 56.59.62

M40 Michael Doggett 58.20.75

M60 Ron Schwebel 59.41.51

M60 Graham Kinross 1.08.43.21

W45 Jane Boyd 1.09.35.27

M65 Dennis Williams 1.11.45.11

M60 Doug Barrett 1.15.15.35

9

2013 GEELONG Australian Masters Games

About 30 of our members ventured to Geelong for the Australian Masters Games. Robyn Basman asked a

number of them for their stories and these were the replies she received

Vicki Townsend I ended up getting 3 gold, 3 silver, 3 bronze and 2 lasts!!! I just entered everything I was capable of doing. I originally wanted to play basketball but couldn't get enough over 45's (that were good enough!!!) to get a team together so decided to do athletics instead. My favourite events are high jump, discus and sprints (I never get medals for sprinting so was very excited with those) I did a PB in discus to get gold and an equal PB in high jump to get gold, both very exciting this early in the season. I also love the variety of the Pentathlon, that was only the second one I had ever done, the first being at the World Masters Games in Sydney. I'd love to do more, but seriously have to work on my javelin and 800m. I absolutely loved the competition and the competitors (not so much the weather) and can't wait to be able to do more masters games. My children finish year 12 next year... and I plan on becoming a Masters Games tragic!!!

he dilemma of the 400. NO, I don't want to do it.... I hate the 400.... but my love of shiny

things means I HAVE to do the 400 (why didn't I just do the 800 on Saturday, oh, I forgot I HATE 800's TOO). Rachel Little (who won our 100 & 200 by 50m) informs me that this is her pet event... Fan-bloody-tastic... she is going to lap me, makes me feel sooooooo much better.... oh wait, she can't lap me... IT'S ONLY ONE LAP. I check the start list, 6 to start..... Oh my God.... I'm going to come Last!!! But hold on, there's always a possibility that they may, just may, be more shit than me. Okay, better start warming up... How do you warm up for a 400??? If I start running now, I'll be too tired to race a 400. Okay, really PACKING IT NOW. Everybody is trying to encourage me but all they are doing is making me more nervous!!! Okay... I'll jog 400m, just to make sure I can run that

far. A few smartasses inform me that I am going to have to run faster than that, thanks Linda Buttigieg, I'm pretty happy I just got around!!! Absolutely knackered now... Better not do that again... Panting AND shaking fantastic, better not run again, think I'll stretch. STOP trying to make me feel better people, I want to puke... maybe I'm coming down with something... maybe I need to withdraw.. NO, I really need a silver. Rachel is super

reassuring and encouraging... I CAN DO THIS (I can't think of a good enough reason not to, except I don't want to kill myself before the pentathlon tomorrow!!! ) Okay, I'll just walk to keep myself away from nerve inspiring well wishers. Okay, lane 7 (I HATE lane 7). The only person I can see is Rachel, in lane 8, and she's going to be gone in 2.3 secs!! Everyone's setting up their blocks, lol.... Don't think I'll bother going to that extreme. Off we go... 50 year olds whizzing past left, right and centre... That's okay, just pace yourself and get to the end. God, people are screaming for me EVERYWHERE. I get to the 200m mark... And I'm still ALIVE, okay, only 200m to go, I can do 200m... I LOVE 200m, just pace yourself!!!! Okay, back

straight, there's the finish line. Rachel and 50 year olds are crossing it. I WANT TO CROSS IT. Okay, sprint as fast as you can and don't let anybody else get past, gaining on girl in front, she can hear me and she's not going to let me catch her. YAH, I'VE FINISHED, I'M ALIVE, I FEEL GREAT... AND STONE THE CROWS I GOT MY SILVER!!! Check time 72 seconds!! OMG I AM AWESOME, I COULD HAVE GONE FASTER THAN THAT, I feel great.

My all-time PB is 68, I'm so close... I don't hurt at all, and I've barely trained!! Bring on this season.. Totally inspired to get a 65 by country!!! Hope I can walk tomorrow for the grand finale - my beloved pentathlon - I'm in desperate need of another silver, but I'm not too hopeful, Caroline Layt and I are up to day 4 of competition and the other six competitors will be all fresh as daisies with the Pentathlon being their first event!!!'

EJ Davie I enjoy going to all Masters Champs and Games anywhere in Australia. I enjoy competing in a lot of events because I really enjoy the running but I also like to be a multi eventer and give a few other events a go. Both the Masters Champs and

Masters Games are always great for competition and meeting new people and also having a holiday in a different state every year. Easter is really great for the Championships because it is easy to have the time off work. The Masters Games are in October or November so most times I drive there and go for the whole week. I like to enter a lot of events and make the trip worthwhile and give myself a chance at as many medals as I can.

won gold in the Pentathlon and 3 silvers in 3000m Steeplechase, 5000m and 8km cross country, and Bronze in

the 10km. The Silver in the 5000m in 20.57 was my best race (I got lapped by

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Right:

Renae Knowles Below:

3 generations. Renae Knowles - 38

Julie Ramsey - 60 Dulcie Hayhoe - 88

gold and I lapped bronze). It was the same day as the Pentathlon and winning Gold and Silver on the same day was huge. I will compete at the Australian Masters Champs and Pan-Pacific Masters games next year. I’m still undecided about Oceania in January.

Gavin Murray I decided to go the Geelong for the Masters Games mainly because I haven't competed at one before but also I have followed Geelong in the AFL since 1963 and it was my first time to see the ground where they play.

I competed in all the throws events other than Javelin and also the Throws Pentathlon. It was good to see a number of my old rivals there. Even though some others had gone to Canberra for the Winter Throws we had a little postal comp between us, which I won!

I won four Gold medals and one Silver and my performances were all close to my best. I did have two Personal Best's, in the Shot Put and Throws Pentathlon. Nice to get PB's in the last year of an age group.

The Shot Put was very exciting as I was against the 3 times National Champion, Stan Peska, and I threw a PB in the third round and was in first place by30cm. In every throw from then on Stan improved and on the last throw of the competition Stan threw 12.05m to my 12.04m - and he had done it to me again!

The meeting was a good one and we had great weather, there were, however, some problems with the program. A number of age groups had two events within 3/4 of an hour which made it hard to stay on time.

I really enjoyed my time in Geelong and look forward to doing it all again as a M60-64.

Nick Bastas I competed in 8 events and won gold in the Long Jump and Javelin, silver in High Jump, 60 metres , Discus and Shot Put and Bronze in 100 metres and 200 metres. This is my 4th year in Track and Field. I have come back to the sprints

after competing in long distances in my forties.

eelong was great and although I was unfortunately injured two weeks before the Games, I was

still happy with my performances. Being injured was a low time for me. The weather was a mixed bag. First day was sunny and 26 degrees and the second day was a cold 13 degrees, raining and miserable, especially for the javelin at 7pm. I consider my best events are the long jump and triple jump. I won those in Canberra at the Nationals. The 60 metre is my next best. This I would say was my finest hour. I trained throughout the winter months and I wanted to compete in Geelong as a rehearsal for the next games in 2014. The organisation was pretty good and everybody was very friendly. My next goal would be to break the Australian record in the long jump and the triple jump.

Renae Knowles I’ve been a member of Masters’ club for 4 years. I did World Masters Games in 2009 (bronze in shot put), as well as NSW and National Athletics Championships every year, but this was my first Australian Games. I haven't done any Oceania Games or World Athletics. For Geelong, I entered the 1500m but they changed the schedule and it clashed with the javelin event so I had to withdraw. I convinced my Mum (60) and Gran (88) to enter Javelin with me, so that we had 3 generations of girls all competing in the one event. My Mum and Gran are not sporty and have never competed in any sport, let alone track and field. However, we all thought it would be a fun thing to do together, and it was a hoot!

Gran won gold in Javelin with a PB of 3.90m, Mum came last but had some good throws and I won gold in Weight Throw (PB of 7.36), silver in Jav (21.40) and bronze in discus (15.74). A great day had by all.

Andrew Cassin In July 2012 I headed out onto the oval for my first game of AFL in many a year for a friendly Masters match. Two games and a few head knocks later I decided that whilst it was great to be involved in competitive sport again to break me out of my relatively sedentary existence, continuing with AFL was not the path for me. So with Google at my command, I followed some threads on Masters-level sports and unearthed the Australian

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…after a couple of ‘looseners’ to get me started and hitting the board, my third jump was a beauty…

Masters Games website, becoming, instantly hooked. From there I discovered NSWMA and the domestic competitions, the range of Masters Games events and the international championships on the calendar, and it got the pulse racing.

I was a semi-elite athlete in my twenties, competing for my Club at A Grade and State level in sprints and jumps, however life got in the way of sport and I hadn't donned a pair of spikes for fifteen years or thereabouts (unless golf spikes count - which they don't). Still, having dug into

previous results it didn't take me long to commit to getting back into shape so that I could compete successfully in Geelong. So in August 2012, I embarked upon a program of preparing my 40-year-old body for a return to competitive athletics. I managed to compete at the 2013 NSW Masters Championships and the Nationals in Canberra, walking away with gold and silver respectively in my favourite event, the Long Jump, however the after effects of my first season back were a screaming pair of Achilles tendons and a painful groin/adductor injury that left me barely able to walk, let alone jump.

The off-season enabled me to rehab my ailments and prepare effectively for a tilt at the Australian Masters Games. So it was with great excitement that I finally

made the journey south to Geelong, as well-prepared and injury-free as could be hoped, particularly this early in the season. I had entered nine events, but the reality was that I was not going to do more than six, deciding that the 400m flat and hurdles and the 110m hurdles were just too much of an ask. It wasn't until I saw the final program, however, that I realised I'd only be doing five events. The organisers in their wisdom had scheduled the 200m final to start at the same time as the long jump, and I wasn't prepared to compromise my jumping performance.

y over-arching objective had been, and remained, winning the Long

Jump and breaking the 6m mark in the process. Any other medals in the two shorter sprints would be a bonus, as would any bling from the High and Triple Jumps. Day One at John Landy Field kicked off with the 100m sprint, and whilst there were not enough numbers to run preliminary rounds (much to everyone's relief), it was a full field and competition was strong. In the end I took the bronze in a time of 12.05 seconds, just shy of my goal of breaking

the 12 second mark, but it didn't matter as I was thrilled just to medal. In the afternoon I headed over to the high jump and cleared 1.55m for the silver, higher than I had jumped in Cairns at the Great

Barrier Reef Masters Games a couple of months earlier, so I was pleased with that result. Being only one of two in the competition took some shine off the medal, but I was happy with the performance nonetheless.

Sunday was the big day, with the Long Jump my only event. As it turned out I probably could have competed in the

200m as the track events were running behind schedule, however I was not overly concerned with missing out given the depth of the field I was going to be jumping against. Conditions were perfect for jumping and after a couple of ‘looseners’ to get me started and hitting the board, my third jump was a beauty, a 6.20 metre leap that left me in prime position for gold. As it turned out I didn't relinquish that position over the final three rounds, much to my (and my family cheer squad's) delight. I would have been thrilled with 6.00m even, so 6.20m was beyond expectations.

With my goal achieved, I went into Monday's final day relaxed (but a bit sore!) and just out there to enjoy myself. I was hoping for a repeat of Saturday's sprint result and achieve at least a bronze, but managed to sneak home for the silver in the 60m in a PB of 7.69sec (I should qualify that - a "Masters PB" - I was faster in my youth like everyone else!) and did enough to win the triple jump with a shaky 10.83m effort. In fact, I registered Masters PBs in all of my events, so that was another bonus from my Geelong experience and bodes well for the season ahead. Speaking of being faster in my youth, I had a chuckle when I saw a guy wearing a t-shirt that proudly proclaimed "The older I get, the faster I was". I must get myself one of those...

verall, it was a fantastic way to start the summer season and pleasing to see how I had

improved compared with last season. Winning the long jump was

incredibly satisfying and testament to the amount of work I had put in over the previous 12 months. It was a prime example of setting goals and working your butt off to achieve them

(literally)! Whilst I had some frustration with scheduling (and the inconsistencies of medal presentation timings), overall the Geelong folk sure know how to put on a great Games. I'll most likely head over to Adelaide in 2015 to defend my titles, depending on when it is scheduled. Looking ahead to season 2013/14, my goal is to improve further in my key events and get closer to what I believe

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my body is capable of. I don't know if I will be a 7 metre jumper again (but I'm not ruling it out), however the M40-44 record of 6.77m is firmly in my sights and I am preparing to have a crack at it in February/March. I was originally planning on competing at the Oceania championships in Bendigo in January, however picked up an adductor injury at the first Club comp of the season (stumbling out of the blocks and falling flat on my face, no less) so may not have sufficient time to rehab and prepare effectively to compete at an appropriate level. So it's likely that State and National Championships in Hobart will be my main focus this season, as I aim for my first national title and that tantalising long jump record.

fter that, 2014/15 gets interesting, with Pan Pacs on the Gold Coast in November 2014 an enticing prelude to World

Championships in Lyon in 2015, as well as the next instalment of the Australian Masters Games and OMA Championships (in the Cook Islands, I believe). Who knows, if all goes well I might even head over to Budapest for World Indoors next March! Ultimately, I will know I have reached the pinnacle when I can refer to myself as a World champion, so I don’t care if it takes me another 40 years, but I won't even consider stepping away from athletics again until I have achieved success at World level! It may sound slightly corny, but getting back into athletics has given me a new lease on life. I am fitter than I have been for years, find it incredibly easy to get out of bed at 5am every morning to train and find that it is inspiring my family and friends to get more active, which is particularly satisfying. As far as the ageing body is concerned, whilst conventional wisdom suggests that my finest performances are behind me, I am convinced that there is a lot of improvement left before I start the apparently inevitable, gradual decline. It is easy to see why Masters athletics is growing in popularity and that it will be a big part of my life for many years to come.

Heather Lee I came home re-energised after the Games but it had been a race to get fit in time. An upper hamstring muscle problem that had plagued me after

Canberra meant plenty of physio and stretching exercises, fortunately with good results. However, the problem was further aggravated by an unfortunate fall just two weeks before the Games. I’d registered in three ‘Walks’ events, the 3, 5 and 10k and the outcome was very uncertain. But I had underestimated the camaraderie and warmth of the Masters fraternity who have always appreciated my efforts and kept up my spirits. In the 3k I felt the lack of training but it was so good just to be back on the track. I finished in 24.42 and was happy with that. With the race over it gave us a chance to catch up and I had a long conversation with Pam Mews, a truly inspirational lady. She has pins in one of her feet, also in one hip but she embodies the spirit and passion of Masters Games. She had already competed in the 1500m run, her goal just to reach that finish line. She was competing in indoor rowing the next day. If and when she can no longer compete on the track and wheelchair racing is the only option, then that’s what she will do!! I realised I didn’t really have a comparable problem and any doubts I had about competing in the 10k Walk were dispelled. The 5k was held the next day and the great Kelly Ruddick was ‘Poetry in

Motion’ when breaking the World Record and great to watch and share the race with. Heather Carr is also another great Walker who was leaving for Brazil in a couple of days. They both chatted with me later and congratulated my efforts. My time was 42.16 and it was a new experience for me when warned at least three times which was sobering, slowing me down actually waiting to be DQ’d!! I still have a lot to learn, apparently. I’m determined to be back with a vengeance.

he 10k Walk gave me a two day break and I continued to stretch and exercise in the hotel room. It was held at the Barwon River Promenade and with a chance of

rain there for a while, but it remained fine. This event was the most comfortable for me and improved my confidence. I finished in 84.47. Talking after the race I asked a couple of younger walkers if they thought they would be race walking when reaching my age. They both said, ‘No’. I would like to thank David Smyth, James Christmas and everyone who encouraged me whilst there. I’m home now with determination to get fully fit and compete again. I’m sure that ‘I still have what it takes’.

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IMPORTANT! CHANGES TO WMA IMPLEMENT SPECIFICATIONS EFFECTIVE FROM 1st JANUARY, 2014

As a result of the WMA General Assembly voting decisions in Porto Alegre, the following changes to specifications will take effect from 1st January 2014.

1. Javelin specifications for W60-74 will be 500gms (previously 400gms). This will affect the individual event as well as the heptathlon, pentathlon and throws pentathlon.

2. Men's shots shall have the IAAF maximum diameter of 130mm and women's shots shall have the IAAF maximum diameter of 110mm. This decision will not affect the shots currently in use but will provide the opportunity to use lighter shots that are bigger in size.

3. That the 750gm discus shall have a maximum diameter of 182mm (previously 169mm). This decision will provide the opportunity to use a 750gm discus that has the same size as the 1.00kg discus.

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Throwing alternatives Mobile Phone Throwing Championships

Finland A basket of old used phones is provided and combatants see how far they can throw them.

Egg Throwing Championships

Lincolnshire Organised by the World Egg Throwing Federation, in this contest a thrower throws a raw egg over a large distance and a catcher has to catch it without breaking it. For brave individuals there is also Egg Roulette which involves smashing an egg on your forehead. Most of the eggs are hard boiled. The loser is the one who gets the raw egg.

Black Pudding Throwing Championships

Manchester The objective is to throw a black pudding high into the air and try to knock Yorkshire puddings off a platform 20 feet above the ground. The winner is the one to knock the most puddings off.

Brick and Rolling Pin Throwing Championships

Stroud The competition is between 4 towns called Stroud throughout the World including Australia. About 3000 people turned up for this. The rolling pin throwing is for women. The men throw bricks.

MASTERS GAMES RESULTS 60m W40 S. Latanis 7 9.75 W45 V. Townsend 3 8.23 C. Layt 4 9.62 M40 A. Cassin 2 7.69 M45 K. Wardecki 2 7.74 M75 N. Bastas 2 10.30 100m W40 M. Cimino 4 15.04 W45 V. Townsend 3 14.91 C. Layt 5 15.94 M35 G. Bruce 3 12.54 M45 K. Wardecki 2 11.30 C. Kotis 5 12.81 M50 M. Daly 2 13.09 M75 N. Bastas 3 16.51 200m W40 M. Cimino 3 32.71 W45 V. Townsend 3 30.61 W50 J. Schell 1 27.92 M35 G. Bruce 3 25.99 M45 K. Wardecki 3 24.77 M50 M. Daly 2 27.33 M75 N. Bastas 3 39.22 400m W40 M. Cimino 1 1.21.11 W45 V. Townsend 2 59.96 W50 J. Schell 3 68.09 M45 K. Wardecki 2 Short Hurdles 80m W45 V. Townsend 1 17.48 M70 G. Mamalis 1 18.29 100m M50 G. Jankowski 1 20.24 Long Hurdles M50 G. Jankowski 1 20.90 800m M40 E.J. Davie 5 2.45.10 1500m M40 E.J. Davie 6 5.32.95 10k road M40 E.J. Davie 3 46.34.7 Cross Country M40 E.J. Davie 2 38.28.0 M75 B. Thomas 1 48.00.4 2000m Stpl M75 B. Thomas 2 11.27.77 3000m Stpl M40 E.J. Davie 2 13.59.30 Long Jump W40 S. Latanis 3 3.55 S. Ellis 4 3.22 W50 P. Wight 3 3.40 M40 A. Cassin 1 6.20 M65 T. Barber 1 3.44 M70 G. Mamalis 1 4.27 M75 N. Bastas 1 3.68 Triple Jump W40 S. Latanis 1 8.06 S. Ellis 3 7.01 M40 A. Cassin 1 10.03 E. J. Davie 5 6.13 M50 G. Jankowski 1 7.48 High jump W40 S. Ellis 1 1.05 W45 V. Townsend 1 1.35

M40 A. Cassin 2 1.55 Pole Vault M65 T. Barber 1 2.40 Walks 1500m M60 J. West 1 11.08.67 M70 B. Thomas 2 9.45.41 3000m W85 H. Lee 1 24.42.43 M60 J. West 1 21.40.00 M70 B. Thomas 1 19.57.94 5000m W85 H. Lee 1 42.16.37

M60 J. West 1 36.38.63 10k W85 H. Lee 1 84.47 O.D Pentathlon W45 V. Townsend 2 2248 C. Layt 5 1736 M40 E. J. Davie 1 935 Wt Pentathlon M35 R. Meiring 1 3119 M45 S. Gyngell 1 3935 M55 G. Murray 1 3380 M60 J. West 2 1683 Discus W40 S. Latanis 1 29.06 S. Ellis 5 18.46 W45 V. Townsend 1 28.81 C. Layt 2 28.68 M45 S. Gyngell 1 43.33 M55 G. Murray 1 37.96 M60 J. West 4 25.25 M65 T. Barber 4 23.08 M75 N. Bastas 2 18.61

Wt Throw W35 R. Knowles 1 7.36 W40 S. Latanis 2 8.85 S. Ellis 3 7.28 W45 C. Layt 1 11.50 M35 R. Meiring 1 18.35 M55 G. Murray 1 13.05 M60 J. West 3 6.91 Javelin W35 R. Knowles 2 21.40 W40 S. Latanis 2 19.66 S. Ellis 3 3.55 W45 C. Layt 3 17.79

V. Townsend 6 15.51 M50 G. Jankowski 5 22.67 M60 J. West 5 23.08 M70 B. Thomas 1 20.88 M75 N. Bastas 1 17.20 Shot put W40 S. Latanis 2 9.01 M. Cimino 3 7.30 S. Ellis 5 6.70 W45 C. Layt 1 10.00 V. Townsend 2 8.35 W50 P. Wight 4 7.69 M60 G. Crompton 1 10.99 M65 T. Barber 5 7.67 M70 B. Thomas 2 7.48 M75 N. Bastas 2 7.27 Hammer M35 R. Meiring 1 61.16 M40 S. Sutton 5 24.24 M45 S. Gyngell 2 43.17 M55 G. Murray 1 39.33 M60 G. Crompton 4 30.91

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From the Presidential Desk

As we move through the first months of our newest season, it’s hard to believe we are almost at Christmas again! I’m personally finding it tricky to adjust back to life and competition here, after a mad few months of travelling the globe, to Italy for World Masters Games and then onto South America for World Championships. Being away most of August, then mid-October to mid-November hasn’t helped, but the up side is a decent amount of frequent flyer points with various airlines. It’s been a great time though, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. My article on some of my post World Champs travel is also in this issue, and I hope you enjoy reading about some of the great places we visited in Brazil and Peru. I enjoyed it so much I decided to add World Indoors in Budapest in March to the list! Why not, I thought? Life’s short, let’s see how much we can pack into it, right? After that the money might be running low so I may have to stay put for a while

huge ‘woohoo’ to all our NSWMA athletes who competed with me in the XX World Masters

Athletics Championships held in Porto Alegre, Brazil, in October. Australia was near the top of the medal leader board, with 42 gold, 56 silver, 35 bronze for a total of 133 medals. There were a great many NSW medals in that total, and the full results are in a separate article. Congratulations to all our medal winners, and indeed to all who competed: you have done NSWMA proud once again! Congratulations also to Stan Perkins, who was again elected as President of WMA, at their board meeting held during the Championships. NSWMA recently appointed several athletes to the role of Country

Ambassadors in our regional areas, and wish to thank Lynda Douglass (South Coast), Kathleen Cook (Central Coast), Jay Stone (New England/Armidale), Simon White (Newcastle/Hunter) and Ranell Hobson (Blue Mountains) for coming on board. The Ambassadors will be our main points of contact for any new members in their area, and we hope will improve our visibility in the regional areas for both established and new members. In September, Secretary Garry Womsley & I attended the AMA Council meeting in Qld. It was a good working weekend with the Council, with some great results. I’m very pleased to congratulate Garry on his appointment to the current AMA Board, as History/Travel Director, and say how great it is to have a NSW perspective once again on the AMA Board. At that meeting we were given a sneak peek of the new AMA uniform, which will be introduced at the OMA Championships in Bendigo in January. It was the hard work of 4 of our NSW members that initiated a new design for our national uniform, I’m sure you will remember the survey we ran earlier this year for your thoughts on design and materials. We forwarded this information onto AMA, and they took a section of our results for their new design. Not as much as we would have liked, unfortunately, but I guess it is a start, and we will continue to urge AMA to use athlete’s input for future uniform designs. I, for one, will be happy not to wear the old net singlet ever again

Our next ANSW Masters State Championships, to be held on 22 & 23 February 2014 at the Hunter Sports Centre at Glendale, will be an exciting change for many of us, competing at a venue outside of Sydney. As agreed last year after discussion with ANSW, we are trying out competing one year at SOPAC and the following at a regional track, and

we look forward to hearing your thoughts after the 2014 event. The online registration tool for the 2014 Nationals in Hobart is up and running at www.amahobart2014.com.au. Entries will close February 7th. Note that the AMA Pentathlon Championships will be held in Launceston on March 7th. There is no online registration for this event, you need to go to the AMA website and download the registration form required.

e send out another request for members to come on board the Local Organising

Committee for the 2015 National Championships, to be hosted in NSW. Please consider what you can do to help, however big or small your contribution can be, it will all help. We will need people to pack registration bags, and man the registration desks before the event, as well as people on the actual organising sub committees, so please contact Garry at secretary@nswmastersathletics.org.au to put your name on the helper list. On the Committee side we are very happy to welcome Belinda Westcott into the role of Uniform Officer, and Lynette Smith into the Registrar role . Thanks so much for stepping up girls We are still in urgent need of a Website officer since Kirsty Curnow has had to step down from the role. Please contact Garry or myself if you can help out in this capacity. And as we run crazily toward the Festive Season, on behalf of our NSWMA Committee I’d like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas, and a safe and Happy New Year break…. enjoy the time

with family and friends, and good health and performances to you all

Jill Taylor

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Rachel Glasson

For the Record

A look at who’s breaking what by Records Officer, Robyn Basman

Records broken since September 6

Two State records were broken at Sydney’s Blackmore’s Running Festival, September 22, by NSWMA members Pete Costello M40, 6th male and Rachel Glasson W40, 6th Female. Elite level performances for the open category let alone master’s athletes.

Norm Windred, legend, coach and life member, rewrote the NSW record books for M85, breaking 6 records in Canberra at the Winter Throws Championships in October. He now says it is time to put on his spikes and get back to sprinting. Go Norm!! Word has it that he is not really that interested in breaking records; however he has been seen to carry a hand written copy of the NSW records in his pocket book. As they say, a goal not written is but a wish.

Jamie Muscat continues to better his

own records and Clay Tompkins, while on holidays in Darwin, managed to break a record whilst away. Our

previous Records Officer, Don Mathewson, told me both Clay and Jamie were going to keep me busy: great performances by both of these athletes.

Dennis Wylie, Waratah Editor, had some bad luck. After running a potential record breaking M60 Half Marathon at the State Half Marathon Championships, Georges Hall (known as the Hidden Half) he believed that the course was accidently measured short. This was subsequently found to be true and therefore he was unable to claim that record. Then he went away on holidays, forgetting to enter Sydney Blackmore’s Half Marathon, and by the time he returned he was too late to get a preferred start due to his late entry, so he ran anyway but had to walk for the first 6 and half minutes due to congestion, negating another record possibility. However, continuing with his recent form he managed to better his own M60 record in the 3000m champs.

NSW Records W35 Pole Vault: Montse Ros 2.80m, Sydney W40 Half Marathon: Rachel Glasson, 1:23.08, Sydney M35 56lb Weight: Jamie Muscat 8.41m M40 Half marathon: Pete Costello, 1:10.01, Sydney M55 Heavy Weight pentathlon: Gavin Murray 3743 points, Wollongong, October 10 M50 Shot Put: Stuart Gyngell 17.52 Wollongong, November 30 Discus: Stuart Gyngell 49.95 Wollongong, November 30 M60 Long Jump: Clay Tompkins, 5.19 m, Darwin, August 24

Long Jump Clay Tompkins, 5.25m, Campbelltown, December 7 Triple Jump: Clay Tompkins, 11.77m, E.S. Marks, November 2 3000m: Dennis Wylie, 10:26.50, SOPAC, November 9 M85 Hammer: Norm Windred, 23.54m, Canberra, October 5 Shot put: Norm Windred, 8.04m, Canberra, October 5 Discus: Norm Windred, 19.81m, Canberra, October 5 Weight throw: Norm Windred, 11.34m, Canberra, October 5 56lb Weight: Norm Windred, 2.82m, Canberra, October 5 100lb Weight 1.26m Norm Windred Canberra, October 7 Weight Pentathlon: Norm Windred 3375 points, Canberra, October 7

CHANGE OF PROCEDURE FOR RECORDS CLAIMS: Please note on the website changes to the procedure for applying for a State record. Please note that it will be now necessary for each applicant to fill out the form and send a link to the results via email to: records@nswmastersathletics.org.au Please feel free to email any questions regarding this procedure. So, check out the State Records at : http://nswmastersathletics.org.au/customdata/index.cfm?fuseaction=display_main&ItemID=20723&OrgID=125 and if you are close to breaking a record, please carry these forms with you. Please note it is also mandatory to have nearly all the form filled out for Australian records and in its entirety for World records. It is very difficult and almost impossible to go back to claim these later so best to do promptly and at the time of the event.

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JUDY SHOWS HER VERSATILITY AGAIN…

and Noel gets

in on the act! In previous issues, we’ve mentioned the sporting achievements of Judy Brown. She again competed in the National Indoor Rowing Championships placing first in all three distances. NSWMA member Noel Donohoe, who contests the sprints, jumps and multi-events, also contested the event and got two first placings. Both were part of a team which included several athletes from the ACT Veterans.

Judy said: -“There were 3 individual events (500 metres, 4 minutes and 2000 metres). About 60 rowers competed all up. Although the vast majority were from NSW, all states and territories except NT were represented and there was also a competitor from Singapore. One male 40-49 AWD rower from WA competed via SKYPE on the “Big Screen” in the 4 minute event. Numbers were VERY small in the older age groups.”

“Our team was called the Canberra Ergos and our results were as follows, our NSWMA throwers will recognise several of these names.” As follows: -

LOUISE CONNELL (40-49 AWD) 3 x 1st JUDY BROWN (60-64 Lightweight) 3 x 1st TRISH THOMAS (65-69) 3 x 1st ELVA NEILL (75-79) 3 x 1st IAN BROWN (65-69 Lightweight) 2 x 2nd, 1 x 3rd BRYAN THOMAS (70-74 Lightweight) 3 x 1st NOEL DONOHOE (70-74) 2 x 1st (Did not contest 2000m.)

JOHN KEEPS BUSY IN

Geelong Another of our multi-talented athletes is John West. Many years ago, he was a distance runner and steeplechaser but knee trouble caused him to give up those events. However, that certainly hasn’t stopped him. Since then, he has tried his hand at cycling and thoroughly enjoys it. He has continued his athletics career in the throws events and in recent years, has taken up race walking. John, who

competes in the M60-64 category, competed at the Australian Masters Games at Geelong recently in both sports. In the athletics events, he earned 3 Gold (1500m, 3000m and 5000m Walks), 1 Silver (Weight Pentathlon) and 1 Bronze medal (Weight Throw). He also contested the Discus (4th) and Javelin (5th). In the cycling events, he contested the Individual Time Trial and the Road Race for a 14th and 16th placing respectively. John’s full results are as follows: -

Athletics Weight Throw – 6.91m – 3

rd

3000m Race Walk – 21:40.00 – 1st

1500m Race Walk – 11:12.36 – 1

st

Discus – 25.25m – 4th

Javelin – 23.08m – 5

th

5000m Race Walk – 36:38.63 – 1st

Weight Pentathlon – 1683 points – 2

nd

(Hammer: - 15.10m, Shot Put – 7.01m, Discus – 27.52m, Javelin – 24.52m, Weight Throw – 6.44m)

Cycling 19.5km Individual Time Trial – 36:23.1 – 14

th

Road Race – 16th

By Garry Womsley

THE STATE

Open 3000m

CHAMPIONSHIPS Saturday, 9th November, 2013 SOPAC The 3000m State Championships keeps going from strength to strength. There were a massive 144 starters in the men’s category and 43 starters in the women’s category. This resulted in 11 separate races (8 men’s & 3 women’s) which were graded on the times provided at the time of entry. This event has been going since 2004 and attracts athletes of all ages. The youngest competitor was just 11 and the oldest competitor was our very own John Spinney who is still going strong at 74 years young.

The weather was cool and cloudy and there was a gusty wind blowing from the south-east which meant that there was a nasty headwind as the athletes entered the straight. 2013 NSW Novice winner Peter Costello was our fastest athlete on the day. He contested the “B” race and

finished in a great time of 9:03.22. Three other athletes finished in less than 10 minutes. They were: - Michael Doggett (9:45.25 – E Race), Wayne Bulloch (9:48.84 – E Race) and Jason McIntosh (9:57.09 – F Race). Justin Keane ran strongly in the “G” race and came from behind to win it in a time of 10:11.39.

The ultra-consistent Dennis Wylie broke the M60-64 record with his 10:26.50 in the “F” race. Ron Schwebel worked his way nicely through the field in the “G” race and finished solidly in a time 10:39.89. Brad Sharpe was just behind him in the same race in a time of 10:43.80. John Thompson continued his good early season form to finish in a personal best time of 11:04.43 in the “H” race while Garry Womsley also beat the 12 minute barrier comfortably to finish in a time of 11:34.70 in the same race.

Caroline Yarnell was our only female member to finish. She placed 14th in the “C” race in a time of 12:25.85. Last year’s winner Belinda Martin again contested the “A” race but was unable to finish. We hope that she recovers soon and that we will see her back out on the track doing what she does best. Congratulations to all our members who competed in this event.

Men

1) PETER COSTELLO – 9:03.22 – 14th

in B Race

2) MICHAEL DOGGETT – 9:45.25 – 7th

in E Race

3) WAYNE BULLOCH – 9:48.84 – 9th

in E Race

4) JASON McINTOSH – 9:57.09 – 6th

in F Race

5) JUSTIN KEANE – 10:11.39 – 1st

in G Race 6) DENNIS WYLIE – 10:26.50 – 19

th in F Race

7) RON SCHWEBEL – 10:39.89 – 11th

in G Race

8) BRAD SHARPE – 10:43.80 – 12th

in G Race 9) JOHN THOMPSON – 11:04.43 – 6

th in H

Race 10) IAN ROSE – 11:18.93 – 14

th in G Race

11) GARRY WOMSLEY – 11:34.70 – 7th

in H Race

12) JAMES BARNES – 12:10.10 – 9th

in H Race 13) DOUG BARRETT – 12:12.94 – 10

th in H

Race 14) EJ DAVIE – 12:27.61 – 11

th in H Race

15) JOHN SPINNEY – 13:59.03 – 14th

in H Race

Women 1) CAROLINE YARNELL – 12:25.85 – 14

th in C

Race

By Garry Womsley

17

Relaxation Techniques AND ATHLETICS

In 1987 I attended a Relaxation Course at Royal North Shore hospital. Relaxation Courses were

all the rage at that time; I remember the comedian Dave Allen doing a skit about one.

I would never have thought of going myself (some enterprising person suggested it) but I quickly

picked up the technique and have practised every day or so ever since. Perhaps

relaxation suits my nature; I am a bit dreamy.

hen, after a thirty year break, I recommenced

athletics in 2007, I quickly found a new use for the

old techniques. Today, I can locate tension within any

particular muscle or joint. Then I tell it to relax. If it hurts, I can

tell it to stop hurting or, in the case of the City2Surf, which is the

only Fun Run I do regularly, I can switch sides and tell the sore

side to stop hurting. I never take pain killers except perhaps 2

Panadol at bedtime for a pinched nerve. Say, for arguments

sake, I wake up in the middle of the night and my knee is aching.

I have three options: one, 2 more Pandadol, two, Dencorub, or

three, relaxation exercises. If I can get the muscles surrounding

the knee to relax enough, the whole knee will warm up and the

pain will go away. It takes a bit more concentration to get my

hip to stop aching - knees are easier than hips - but it's still more

attractive than staggering to the bathroom cupboard on a cold,

dark night and it gives me something to think about.

One of the problems with sharing my good news is that I can't

remember, after a quarter of a century, the technique as I was

originally taught it. The actual 'relaxation session' took

patience, time and concentration; quite a lot of concentration,

and freedom from all other distractions. I remember lying

comfortably in the class, covered with a blanket, doing exercises

which involved breathing and concentrating on imagining waves

of relaxation sweeping down my body. Your hands and feet

begin to feel warm and the warmth gradually rises up through

the knees to the thighs. You are aware of the room and the

teacher but somehow divorced from them. You are mentally as

well as physically relaxed and when you decide to finish, you

can stop whenever you choose and return to the room

refreshed in mind and body.

I'm pretty good at my lower half and hands (the bits that hurt

most). My top half and breathing is a work in progress. I figure

that if I can control my breathing I will have achieved the

ultimate. For example, I would like to run 800m fast, slow, fast

and, for a heptathlon, break 3 minutes. (Perth 2016, here I

come! ) At the moment, if I start too fast I will panic, then I can't

breathe well and have to slow down. A worst case scenario

would be having to pull out, and the issue would always be

breathing.

About 5 years ago I observed a school group doing a relaxation

class for sport. The instructor put on soothing music and read

out a list of images for the students to focus on: clouds at

sunset, mist through the gumtrees, butterflies in a churchyard

and so on. I must stress that this was not what I did at RNS.

There was no music and no imagery. You had to concentrate

and practise at home and do the hard work yourself.

I am aware that many runners play 'mind games' during a race,

calling on intuition to reach those mysterious depths that the

textbooks can't access. I wonder why we can only do this when

we're outside our comfort zones, and must rationalize away

these minor miracles once the race is over. I have even heard of

people healing more quickly by 'telling' their injury to get better

whilst in a relaxed state. This is over and above just 'listening to

your body' which we should all be doing anyway.

final note, relaxation is not a substitute for stretches, strengthening and correct technique. That said, I like the idea of an intuitive athlete and I am intrigued by the possibilities relaxation opens for recovery and pill free

pain management.

By Margaret Walker

W

A

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR anyone who may break a record

Please note that you have to submit an application form for

each record, State and Australian. So please carry the application form, downloadable from our website,

to each event.

World records require a different application process,

however it is very important to let the officials know that you are applying for a World record.

18

Left: Pete Murrays’ start.

Right: Julie Forster,

Bruce Green, David Morris, Peter Murray

Below: Anatoly passes to Fred Daniels

Gold NSW MASTERS SCORE at the State RelaysNSW State Relays – Saturday 16th November, 2013 – SOPAC.

We only had two teams representing NSW Masters at the State Relays this year. Both teams competed in the men’s sprint events on day one. Unfortunately, we had no throws teams or women’s teams on this occasion. The weather was cool and cloudy with a strong wind from the south-east so there was a nasty headwind down the

home straight.

A total of six members contributed to the two teams. Julie Forster (4 x 100m & 4 x 200m) kindly ran in the men’s teams and made a solid contribution in both events. Specialist thrower and Pentathlete Anatoly Kirievsky didn’t have a throws team but was still able to get some valuable practice for the Outdoor Pentathlon in the 4 x 200m. The 4 x 200m also featured one of the oldest competitors at the event in 81 year old Fred Daniels. The other three members were sprinters Bruce Green (4 x 100m), Morris David (4 x 100m) and Peter Murray (4 x 100m & 4 x 200m).

Men’s 200+ 4 x 200mSeven teams contested this event and our team never gave up despite coming up against the might of Sydney Pacific (3 teams) and Mingara (2 teams). Peter

Murray got the team off to a good start and passed to Anatoly Kirievsky who ran solidly before passing to Fred Daniels. Fred battled away up the back straight and passed to Julie Forster who brought it home nicely. The team placed a creditable 6th in a very good time of 2:00.84. Full results as follows: - PETER MURRAY (52) ANATOLY KIRIEVSKY (35) FRED DANIELS (81) JULIE FORSTER (52) Time: - 2:00.84 Position: - 6

th

Men’s 240+ 4 x 100m

We were all quietly confident about the chances of this team. With only two other teams entered, they were assured of at least a bronze medal but the team members struck up an instant rapport while warming up and you could sense

that this team had the perfect mix to perhaps take the gold. After a great start by Bruce Green, Julie Forster kept the opposition honest along the back straight before passing the baton to Morris David, who ran strongly around the bend. Final runner Peter Murray then did the rest coming from third to bring home the gold medal. The winning time was 55:11 which was fantastic.

Full results as follows: -

BRUCE GREEN (71) JULIE FORSTER (52) MORRIS DAVID (77) PETER MURRAY (52) Time: - 55.11sec Position: - 1

st

Congratulations to all members who took part in this event. You did the club proud!

By Garry Womsley

Belinda Martin was

mentioned in the St George Leader as one of 3 local women who for whom there is a possibility of selection for the Commonwealth Games at Edinburgh. Aged 39 she won 3 State Open titles last year: the 3000m, 5000m and 10000m and keeps beating the States’ younger opponents in fun runs.

19

The Bay Run

I love the Bay Run. I‘ve been running its 7k circuit 4 or 5 days a week for the last 10 years. I was so keen on it that when I had to move from Leichhardt 4 years ago I forsook a great bargain in the suburb of Croydon to instead buy a place in neighbouring Haberfield so I could continue to train on the Bay Run. It means a lot to me to run near water or at least to know where it is. I could never stand being distant from the sea, a lake or a river. I need to hear it, see it or smell it or at least know where it is. All my life I’ve been no more than a walkable distance from the sea, except for 3 months aged 19 when I lived about 30k from the sea, and I missed it then.

If I organise a different training run, leaving from my place, it always involves running near water. Options include Rozelle Bay, Blackwattle Bay, White Bay, Parramatta River, Five Dock Bay, and Abbottsford Bay, and that means crossing the Anzac Bridge and Iron Cove Bridge. Rarely I might go further and do a full 26k circuit of Sydney Harbour, crossing the Harbour on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and back again at Tarban Creek and Gladesville Bridges. But mostly I just run the Bay Run.

The Bay Run is otherwise known as Iron Cove and is surrounded by the suburbs of Balmain, Leichhardt, Haberfield, Russel Lea, Five Dock and Drummoyne. From my place to Iron Cove it’s about 2k by the route I normally take and 1.6k by a shorter route back.

On Thursdays at 6am a group, made up mainly of Sydney Striders, meet at Drummoyne Pool and trot around to Timbrell Park for a speed session. I often join them. Other groups and individuals who are ANSW registered also do Fartlek sessions around the Bay.

Sometimes I do another lap if I want a longer run. There are a few hills just off the course which you can use for hill reps, one is 300m long, pitched at 7 degrees and goes up Lilyfield Rd and is good for distance training but I usually do shorter and less steep ones of about 130 metres so I can train more for speed.

Sri Chinmoy has a couple of events each year on the Bay Run and John Dawlings organises another through Rozelle Hospital grounds in December. There is also a fun run called The Bay Run for which Brad Sharpe has organised a Masters team every year that usually comes second to some fast 16 year olds from St Joseph’s College! The other members of this year’s team comprised Ian Rose, Barry Mayo and me. A lot of top runners enter this race, the fastest completing it in less than 21 minutes!

If I enter one of the annual races I often do another lap afterward as a warm down which probably sounds hard or crazy to some people but is nothing unusual to a distance runner and time goes quickly for me whenever I run The Bay, because I do it so often. Occasionally, when I couldn’t sleep I’ve gone for a midnight run and had the whole place to myself. I remember doing this once when a misty rain was falling and I was

having dreams while running. It seemed strange but the act of running is always as much mental as physical no matter how fast you go. The only difference is that it is more intense when going fast.

The Bay Run is popular with people from outside the area and the numbers of people using it for training swell around the time of the City to Surf, and in Summer there are so many people using it it can be difficult to overtake anyone. Not such a problem for me as I usually go early, at about 5-5.30 am or 5-6 in the

evening. Ed.

N S W M A C O M M I T T E E

President Jill Taylor 0409 607 384 president@nswmastersathetics.org.au

Vice President Stuart Gyngell 0415 249 088 vicepresident@nswmastersathletics.org.au

Secretary Garry Womsley 0459 436 660 secretary@nswmastersathletics.org.au

Treasurer/Public Officer Anatoly Kirievsky 0413 710 216 treasurer@nswmastersathletics.org.au

Waratah Editor Dennis Wylie 0404 898 661 editor@nswmastersathletics.org.au

Records & Awards Registrar

Robyn Basman Lynette Smith

0432 764 800 0499 499 924

records@nswmastersathletics.org.au registrar@nswmasters athletics.org.au

Publicity/Comms vacant Uniforms Belinda Westcott uniforms@nswmastersathletcs.org.au Website Kirsty Curnow 0404 125 577 website@nswmastersathletics.org.au

Track Rep Garry Womsley 0459 436 660 secretary@nswmastersathletics.org.au

Field Rep Andrew Atkinson-Howatt 0423 222 433 javelin3@optusnet.com.au

Walks Rep Nancy Lloyd 0411 270 393

Distance Rep Dennis Wylie 0404 898 661 editor@nswmastersathletics.org.au

What's ahead? Jan 4-12 Oceania Masters Athletics Champs Bendigo, Victoria Jan 4-5 Multi Event Champs Campbelltown Jan 09 NSWMA Throws Pent Champs Campbelltown Jan 12 AMA Half Marathon Champs Bendigo Jan 24-26 ANSW Country Champs Wollongong Feb 1-9 NZ Masters Games Dunedin Feb 22-23 NSW 20k Walking Champs Hobart Feb 15 5000m Champs SOPAC Feb 22-23 ANSW Masters Champs Glendale Mar 07 AMA Pentathlon Launceston Mar 8-10 Australian Masters Champs Hobart Mar 23 Orange City Colour Running Festival Orange Mar 25 World Indoor Champs Budapest Mar 30 NSW Mountain Running Champs Orange

20

Top Left and sequence left: Breaking a National and nearly World record. You need to have officials present and have forms signed by them. Meet Manager/ videographer/photo: Phil Frkovic. Competition Manager: Mervyn Kemp. Field referee: Lisa Mumberson. Record breaker: Stuart Gyngell. Technical/Equipment/photo: Andrew Atkinson-Howatt. EDM Manager: Gavin Murray. Chief Field Judge: Lynette Smith. Top Right: Robyn Basman is given the wrong medal by Michael O’Mara and she says she’s not going to give it back. Middle: Caroline Yarnell looks great at the State 3000m. She has done heaps for Little Athletics. Mid Right: Somehow the older Ryde boys ended up with bibs that matched the year they were born. Lajos Joni, Robert Hanbury-Brown and Andrew Atkinson Howatt with younger team member, James Bergfield. Right: Cristine Suffolk with Stan Perkins, head of WMA. Below right: The Aussie 4x100m team that won gold in Brazil: From left, Janet Naylon, Jackie Bezuidenhout, Karen Long, Gianna Mogentale.