Junior Pairs Angus and Sam Win First Full ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge

Angus and Sam powering through the trail run stage.

The stunning Pioneer Valley in Mackay, Queensland, played host to the Corry Cycles ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge on Saturday 6 May. Featuring four stages of intense adventure activity - a 40km MTB, 10km kayak, 10km trail run and 30km road cycle - the event attracted over 100 adventure-seekers from across the country, but it was the Junior Pairs category that stole the show.

The ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge celebrates the life of former Mackay Christian College student Zach Roberts, who tragically lost his life in a traffic accident at the age of 18. The event was created in 2013 to honour Zach's memory and his love for adventure, and it has become a beloved tradition in the Mackay community.

Angus Wicks and Sam Palmer, both aged 16, competed in their first full ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge taking out the Junior Pairs category. The duo had been working their way up to this moment for many years, starting with the MINI MACH Adventure Challenge and setting their sights on the full ZACH MACH.

"We're incredibly proud of Angus and Sam's achievement," said Nikki Giles, Event Director for ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge. "It takes a lot of dedication and hard work to complete ZACH MACH, and for them to do it at such a young age is truly impressive."

Angus and Sam shredding the MTB course.

Angus and Sam's victory was hard-earned, as they had to contend with challenging terrain and staying within 20m of each other for the entire race. However, their determination and teamwork paid off, as they crossed the finish line with a time of 5 hours and 51 minutes.

"The ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge is an incredible event that tests the limits of its participants, we give away over $4,000 in prize money and merchandise to deserving winners like Angus and Sam," added Giles.

"We're so happy to have completed the ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge and to have won our category," said Angus. "It's been a goal of ours for a long time, and it feels amazing to finally achieve it."

Sam echoed his sentiments, saying, "We've been training for this moment for a while, and we're grateful for the support of our families, friends and coaches who helped us get here. It's an incredible feeling to know that all our hard work has paid off."

The ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge has become a beloved event for adventure enthusiasts across the country, and this year's race was no exception. ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge is sure to continue to inspire and challenge athletes of all ages and abilities for years to come.

A podium finish for Angus and Sam.

For those looking for a more family-friendly adventure, the MINI MACH Adventure Challenge was held the following day. This event offers a shorter version of the ZACH MACH course and is designed for families, beginners and anyone wanting to try adventure racing ages 7yrs+. This year's pairs category podium saw three mums and their kids take out first, second and third places.

"The MINI MACH Adventure Challenge is a great opportunity for people to experience the thrill of adventure racing without the intensity of the full ZACH MACH," said Giles. "We're delighted to see so many families and beginners taking part and having a great time."

Women Solo Category Winners:

1st Bridie Ruff 4:46:21

2nd Bec Wood 5:23:40

3rd Kelly Chappell 5:55:45

Men Solo Category Winners:

1st Mitch Nissen 4:11:33

2nd Kurt Brunker 4:47:14

3rd Allan Jefferson 4:50:22