It was a weekend of action at Barmera with defending champions Sarah Crowley and Matthew Pellow both not competing, it left the door open for new champions and the race didn't disappoint. The womens race was separated by just over a minute heading out on to the run, with SA's Jen Sturm charging thanks to her disc wheel inspired bike ride. She couldn't hold off the fast feet of youngster Hailey Mason who ran down Sturm on the second half of the run to claim her first Murray Man Title. Sturm finished second with Claire Fenoughty taking the final podium spot.
In the mens, a mid week stay in hospital couldn't stop Steve McKenna from making it to the start line, and amazingly led for much of the race. Running stride for stride on the run with Sam Tebeck is was clear not all was right, and McKenna pulled out in a wise move applauded by all. From here Tebeck was running strongly but couldn't hold back Damien Collins 1:19 run split, who charged home to take the title in just over 4 hours. Tebeck finished second from Blake Kappler who ran strongly to secure third.
As usual the weather gods turned it on in Barmera and reminded everyone why this race is firmly in the must-do category each year. << click here >> for all the results of the weekend
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