The first in the trail run series, the Jacques Parcel Delivery 5 kilometre handicap at the Penguin Motocross track was run in beautiful weather conditions. A lack of recent rain meant the course was relatively dry and not wet and slippery as in previous runnings of this event.
The field was down a little in numbers with other events occurring elsewhere on the day, but still fifty eight starters enjoyed the tough terrain.
The race was a triumph for veteran competitor, Darren Brown, who recorded his ninth win with the club. Brown, who has been competing since 1981, had struggled with illness and injury over the past two years but proved he was almost back to his best with a gutsy win by the narrowest of margins from young gun, Ewen Troughton. Troughton actually hit the lead in the closing stages, but Brown, not to be outdone, fought hard to regain the lead and break the tape.
It was well-deserved as he travels from Hobart most weeks to compete, having moved there from the coast some years ago.
Ron Chequer was third after appearing the likely winner with a kilometre to run.
Stuart Greenhill started from the second front mark and led for a long way after overtaking front marker, Nat Luttrell. Greenhill managed to hang on for a promising seventh.
Fastest male and female were Brad Taylor, who finished a great sixth, and Lyn Saint-John respectively.
Earlier, nominated time winners were Robyn Luttrell, Ashley Fehlberg, Emily Aichberger and Milla Price