Sport
10 May, 2023
Rusty Wheels roll in to defend their title
RETURNING to defend their title as Great Wheelbarrow Race champions, Rusty Wheels has been busy training as they prepare to line up with nearly 40 other teams for the 20-year anniversary race this year.
Rusty Wheels had their debut race last year and smashed the hardest leg of the race, Dimbulah to Almaden, in just three and a half hours with a total race time of seven hours, 20 minutes and 28 seconds.
For this year’s race set to take place from 12-14 May, the team hopes they can keep up the same pace they showcased last year and remain competitive amongst a host of other highly competitive teams.
Team captain Alyssa Shorey said the race experience last year was unbeatable and the team is excited to return once more.
“After last year's win it was a great experience for the Rusty Wheels team and support crew,” she said.
“This year my expectations are neutral as we have won previously and that is a huge challenge in itself, but It really is just an overall great experience.”
Out of the original team, seven runners are returning while three runners will attempt the race for the first time.
Alongside Alyssa will be Jenna Soncin, Coco Gambino, Will Simms, Ryan Johnston and Beau and Clint Hatfield.
Madina Williamson, Thomas Cuda and Thomas Byrne will be tackling the race for the first time.
“Last year's race was absolutely incredible but the main lesson that Rusty Wheels could take away from it was that you have to take each day as it comes and prepare yourself for what's ahead,” Alyssa said.
“We have been doing a little running group every week and everyone has been doing their own training in preparation for the race.
“The best part of last year's race was the team – we never gave up and crossed that finish line with enthusiasm and the sensation of winning with the best team is all I could have ever asked for.
“This year I am looking forward to having the best team and having an absolute blast of a time.”
