Finch Hatton Flowing Trails Trail Run: A Day of Exclusive Adventure and Thrills

Mackay, Queensland – 4 August: The Finch Hatton Flowing Trails Trail Run, held on Sunday, 4 August, marked the third event in the thrilling 4-part "Off the Beaten Track" Trail Run Series. This exceptional event, the brainchild trail run series of Mackay’s ActiV8 Adventures, saw over 120 enthusiastic trail runners seize the rare opportunity to traverse the world-class Finch Hatton MTB exclusively.

In collaboration with Mackay Regional Council and Finch Hatton MTB, the trails were exclusively open to trail runners from 6am to 10am, making this the only day in 2024 where runners could enjoy the park without sharing the paths with mountain bike riders. The event featured three challenging distances—6km, 12km, and 18km—with over $700 in prize money up for grabs.

Participants experienced the full spectrum of the park's demanding terrain, with steep ascents and descents, thrilling spills, and breathtaking views from the highest points. The single trail flows proved to be a standout feature, delivering an exhilarating experience for both seasoned trail runners and first-timers alike.

Among the runners was Samantha Sticklan, who expressed her enthusiasm for the trails: "I had not been to the track before, but I will come back with my family in tow—I think I could handle some of those little trails on my MTB!" This sentiment was echoed by many participants, with numerous trail run newcomers vowing a new found love for trail running and also a desire to return with their mountain bikes and families to Finch Hatton.

Even the photographers found themselves immersed in the excitement, capturing the energy and spirit of the event while racing across the trails to seize the best moments.

Nikki Giles, Director of ActiV8 Adventures, remarked, "The Finch Hatton Flowing Trails Trail Run was a fantastic success. It was incredible to see so many runners take on the trails with such enthusiasm and to hear their positive feedback. We look forward to continuing to bring unique and challenging events like this to our community."

The "Off the Beaten Track" Trail Run Series has proven to be an innovative and thrilling initiative, promoting outdoor activity and showcasing the natural beauty of Mackay's trails. With only one event left in the series, the anticipation is high for the grand finale.

Registrations are now open for the final event of the series, "Captain's Crossing - The Gong," taking place on Saturday 12 October. With more prize money up for grabs and the chance to explore another hidden gem of Mackay's Pioneer Valley, runners can choose from 6km, 14km, and 24km distances. Visit https://www.tri-activ8.com.au/ to register.

The "off the beaten track" Trail Run Series has proven to be an innovative and thrilling initiative, promoting outdoor activity and showcasing the natural beauty of Mackay's trails. With only one event left in the series, the anticipation is high for the grand finale.

Results:

6km Sprint

Overall Female:

1st Isabelle Cahill

2nd Sandra Macklin

3rd Reyna Pakowski

Overall Male:

1st Archer Flanagan

2nd Eli Flanagan

3rd Isaac Hammer

12km Loop de Loop

Overall Female:

1st Abigail Preston

2nd Megan Moa

3rd Isabella Preston

Overall Male:

1st Bradley Lenahan

2nd Matthew Stevens

3rd Tim Magoffin

18km The Flow

Overall Female:

1st Demi Caldwell

2nd Trinity Donovan

3rd Samantha Sticklan

Overall Male:

1st Jonathan Davies

2nd Calem Wilcox

3rd Mitch Evetts