Andrews Leaves His Mark At Woodlands

By Brian Marantelli 2 July 2014

After fifty one races, which included twenty four top ten finishes, Mark Andrews broke through for his first Victorian Cross Country League win at Woodlands Park on Sunday. On a cold wet and windy morning, Mark had thirty three seconds to spare over his nearest rival Marcus Boxall at the completion of the tough 10km course. After recent close seconds at Karkarook, Warringal Park and Bendigo, Mark made sure of Sunday’s event which he had all to himself over the concluding thousand metres. Over the last couple of seasons Andrews, a regular winner on the VAL summer circuit, has concentrated on the winter events and has developed into one the competitions most consistent athletes.

Marcus Boxall, nearing his winning Norm Charles Classic form, was a clear second with Duncan Whitford once again in the placings with a solid third. Leon Brooks and the steadily improving David Page were next across the line with Shane Grund finishing sixth and posting the fastest time (35:19). Seventh across the line was multiple club champion and former Australian representative Sean Quilty. Joel Donnar was next across the line from ornithologist Colin Davis. Colin’s collection of magpies were seen for the last time on Sunday night as the authorities have decided they are better suited to Saturday exercise, before again hibernating in September. Corina Kapusta completed the top ten and also was the fastest female (39:42). The novice award went to first year member Robert Eppinger with a handy run of 38:26.

The race was once again sponsored by Leanne Callaghan through Independent Signs, Hugo Sarpa, Brian Marantelli and Alan McCullen. The VCCL thanks them for their continued support.

This Sunday we return to Lysterfield Park for a new event, the 8km Austbrokers Phillips Handicap, with a start time of 10am. The VCCL thanks David Page and Austbrokers Phillips for their willingness to be a part of the VCCL season.

The following week, July 13^th, we welcome another new venue to the Victorian Cross Country League, the 6.5km Myrniong Handicap at Lake Dewar Lodge. This is a great venue for an event and with ideal facilities will make for a perfect social gathering afterwards. We ask that all members make the trip up the Ballarat Highway to Myrniong and support John Green and Greg Whitecross for their efforts in making this day possible.

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