The sun had barely risen on Saturday, October 25, when a group of determined locals gathered at the base of Mount Inkerman for this year’s King and Queen of the Hill event. Starting at 6am, runners and walkers of all ages — along with a couple of enthusiastic dogs — took on the steady climb up the mountain road before making their way back down the goat track to the finish.
The event drew a good turnout despite the early start, with a few supporters cheering from the side as participants tackled the course. Feed Me Food was on hand providing much-needed coffee and breakfast for runners and spectators alike. Helping to keep the event running smoothly were this year’s Harvest Festival Queens — Ellie Woods, Aaliyah Gibson, and Eden Betteridge — who took on the important role of timekeepers for each category.
This year’s results saw some excellent efforts across all age groups.
Under 12 Girls 1st – Taylor Chapman (23:22) 2nd – Keely Watson (23:28) 3rd – Katie Bapty (28:55)
Under 12 Boys 1st – Jardie Russell (21:11) 2nd – Connor Linton (26:10) 3rd – Brycene (26:29)
13–16 Girls 1st – Alexis Howell (21:23)
13–16 Boys 1st – Sonny O’Rourke (18:21) 2nd – Harley Woodwood (19:35) 3rd – Angus Watson (20:56)
17–35 Ladies 1st – Jennifer Fotinos (20:58) 2nd – Kathi Vass (23:58) 3rd – Carly Kies (24:34)
17–35 Men 1st – Aaron Bathis (14:46) 2nd – Brendon Maltby (16:03) 3rd – Toby Wilson (17:15)
35+ Ladies 1st – Vicki O’Brien (26:50) 2nd – Rebecca Watson (27:32) 3rd – Carolyn Rossgregor (30:01)
35+ Men 1st – Robert Tanner (17:48) 2nd – Jason Maltby (20:19) 3rd – Wal Archibald (21:21)
The fastest male on the day was Aaron Bathis with a remarkable time of 14 minutes and 46 seconds, while the fastest female was Jennifer Fotinos, finishing in 20 minutes and 58 seconds. Both times improved on last year’s records of 16:00 for the men and 22:15 for the women.
The Home Hill Harvest Festival committee thanked everyone who took part, noting the strong community spirit and sportsmanship on display. With stunning views, good company, and plenty of determination, the early morning event once again proved to be a highlight of the festival calendar.
A big thank you goes out to all our sponsors for their ongoing support, and especially to Mark Watson from Alliance Pharmacy in Home Hill, who has been an avid supporter of the King and Queen of the Hill for many years.
Article by Carlene Muilwyk
Photo credit: Melanie Napier Memories & Photography
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