Pipeline marathon shapes as drawcard
The participation of a number of Japanese runners in yesterday's inaugural Goldfields Pipeline Marathon has underlined the international appeal of the unique event as a potential tourist drawcard.
While not on the same scale as events such as the Boston Marathon, which drew a field of 36,000 in April, the event could fill a hole in the region's sporting calendar.
Runners yesterday traced sections of the century-old Goldfields water pipeline built by CY O'Connor. It has supplied water to the region since 1903.
Organiser Grant Wholey said plans were afoot to make the 42.2km marathon from Coolgardie to Kalgoorlie-Boulder "bigger and better" next year.
"It's a pretty big thing these days in terms of runners travelling overseas to compete in different locations," he said.
"Running in Kalgoorlie and alongside the pipeline is very iconic so we would be hoping to grow to at least 70 runners in the marathon next year."
A field of 32 competitors lined up for yesterday's marathon, with just 35 seconds separating the first two runners.
Perth runner Tony Smith emerged victorious, crossing the line at the Kalgoorlie Golf Course in 3hrs 7mins 5secs.
He edged out Connor Quinn (3:07:40) and Luke Munro (3:14:05).
Kalgoorlie-Boulder runner Julie Gardner took out the women's race in 3.28.47.
Barb Fielding (3:40:05) was second, followed by third-placed Ruth Murdie (3:50:10).
A 134-strong field also registered for the 10km run, while 74 runners took on the half-marathon. Raf Baugh (1:17:11) and Jody Brownley (1:31:15) were the winners of the half-marathon.
Ben Green (35:59) and Laryssa Amesbury (46:24) led the way in the 10km races.
The start of the marathon. Picture: Rhea Wholey
