On a chilly winter morning, Stawell Amateur Athletic Club joined Stawell and Ararat Cross Country Club for the L.W. Kent Memorial Championship race. 

The clubs thank Mary Kent for her sponsorship and support. 

Both clubs honoured the passing of Stawell and Ararat Cross Country Club stalwart Keith Lofthouse with a service and a minute silence. 

Keith was president from 2013-2017 when David Hunter started running with the club. 

“He was always encouraging and helpful, had an interest in the family and how they were going,” Hunter said. 

“We’ve always been appreciative of Keith taking over the Monday night sprint training from Bob.” 

Hunter claimed the victory by four seconds from wife Naomi. 

Peter Hilbig was a further 19 seconds behind in third place. 

Hunter is training for the Melbourne Marathon, with his running program in full swing. 

The weekend’s race was his first victory in three years with a string of injuries interrupting the past few seasons. 

Kade Santuccione won the sub-junior race ahead of his brother Nash, with Willow Davies in third place. 

Tanner Freeland ran a strong race to claim fastest runner. 

Tom Walker was the fastest runner over the eight-kilometre course in a time of 29:17 and Jess Maffescioni was the fastest female, 38:08. 

The club won the Lindsey Kent memorial shield with fast time from all runners. 

The Kieran Ryan Handicap will take place on Saturday with a 10am start at the end of Sylvan Road, Stawell.

– Nathan Baker

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