By Jane Harris
The inaugural Barraba to Kaputar Summit Multisport event ran on Saturday 25 March accompanied by some last minute rain. Despite the rain closing the National park to vehicle traffic the event still ran successfully.
The longest distance on the day was run by Luke Knauss of Newcastle who clocked up 68km running from the centre of Barraba to the Kaputar summit. The last section for Luke was running back from Kaputar to the Barraba Track gate as support vehicles were not allowed to access the track.
There was also a group of mountain bike riders who did the distance from Barraba. They were forced to turn back a little before the summit as the black mud from the track made progress impossible in the last 5km.
Others ran or walked shorter distances including father and son team Steven and Jacob Boyce. Steven did the return walk whilst Jacob ran the 20km return journey.
Participants convened later at “Wiry” to enjoy a barbecue and sit around the camp fire.
Organiser Jonathan Harris grew up next to Kaputar and has long dreamed of a ‘fun run’ type event to enjoy the scenic trip from Barraba to the mountain. Jonathan convened this event as a fundraiser for the Bible Society raising almost $5,000 in sponsorship money.
“It was a great day,” said Jono. “We have learnt a lot holding this event, including how to adapt for some rainy weather and the park closure. I am very grateful for the support of Park Rangers, and from Barraba Anglican Church, particularly from my aunt, Margaret Harris, and all the other volunteers who helped make the day happen. We also appreciated the support of Denyers Mechanical who donated water for the day.”
