By Colin MacGillivray

The Mallee town of Wycheproof is gearing up for another running of one of Australia’s most unique footraces on Saturday.

The Wycheproof King of the Mountain, which last year made a triumphant return after being dormant for 35 years, is staged on what is officially the world’s smallest mountain – Mount Wycheproof, which stands only 42 metres above the surrounding Mallee plains.

But while the elevation is modest, the prize pool of $19,000 across 10 race categories is not.

The premiere King and Queen of the Mountain events will involve an extra challenge of hauling 60 and 20-kilogram bags of wheat respectively to the summit, in recognition of the region’s wheat-growing heritage.

The event will also feature wheelbarrow racers weighed down with extra luggage.

Last year’s race attracted more than 3000 spectators and more than 120 competitors, which  exceeded Wycheproof-Narraport Football Netball Club president Ricky Allan’s expectations.

“It was an incredible comeback for an event that went into hibernation for 35 years,” he said.

“We were delighted to see so many people come along, spend the day with friends, and support our rural club. For visitors to town, it’s an opportunity to tackle the officially recognised smallest mountain in the world.”

Mr Allen said after this year’s race, competitors and spectators could gather at Wycheproof’s Centenary Park for a community picnic lunch, with kids’ activities, food, drink stands, live music and the AFL grand final on a big screen.

“We’ve changed the format to be more inclusive and the community has responded overwhelmingly,” he said.

“As well as being an opportunity for the community to come together, it’s a demonstration of what can be achieved by a dedicated band of volunteers and sponsors. It also provides an economic boost to the entire region, with pubs and accommodation packed for last year’s event.”

Riordan Grain and Riordan Fuels are the major sponsors of the event again this year.

Riordan Grain managing director Jim Riordan said his company was pleased to support the event.

“The main race is an impressive demonstration of strength and stamina, and the wheelbarrow race is teamwork at its best. These values represent the backbone of our rural communities,” he said.

“We look forward to the competition and celebrating with everyone at the picnic afterwards.”

Race categories include mountain dashes, wheelbarrow relays and the title event, with $5000 on offer for the respective winners of the King and Queen of the Mountain categories.

Entries for the King, Queen and relay races close today, with dash entries open until race day.

Full details, including the race schedule, entry details, location maps and contact information, are available at www.kingofthemount.com.au.

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