Roger, Not Over And Out

By Brian Marantelli 3 August 2011

The prospect of poor weather was quickly forgotten when the starters and spectators were rewarded with a warm and clear day for the 46th Annual Norm Charles Classic. The event, at Lysterfield park, was comprehensively taken out by veteran athlete Roger Simondson. Roger, who had previously won the classic in 1986, dominated the race from start to finish. He hit the front at the 8k mark and scored effortlessly by fifty one seconds from Tom Hecimovic and Tony Parsons. Tom and Tony, along with fourth placed Greg Foran, completed back to back top ten finishes in the last two Charles classics. Gemma Kenessy (39.04) ran an aggressive race and was the first and fastest female to finish. The overall fastest time award went Michael Marantelli (33.04) who eventually finished sixth marginally ahead of the second fastest time, David Page (36.28). Others to complete the top ten were the consistent Marcus Boxall and Ashley Snowden and 2006 winner Dennis Hughes.

The presentation was one of the highlights of the day when many of the previous winners were present and able to tell the circumstances of their win. The Victorian Cross Country League would once again like to thank Norm Charles for his incredible effort and generosity to continue his sponsorship for so many years.

This Sunday's race is at Lilydale Lake and is named in honour of long time supporter Tony Rendina. Start time is 10am.

The following week's venue (race 14) has been changed to the Yarra river opposite Olympic Park.

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