Alpine adventure success for Geelong competitors

GEELONG pair Luke Haines and Chris Kennedy were the fastest to navigate their way around the Alpine Region at Falls Creek this weekend to take out the Falls Creek Mountain Raid Adventure Race for 2016, the third edition of the event.

The Falls Creek Mountain Raid on Saturday February 13 and Sunday 14 featured a two-day, off-road navigational adventure race as well as a trail running festival with a series of four runs.

Conditions were picture-perfect as the athletes explored the stunning alpine region.

The event tested the physical endurance and mental toughness of 34 adventure race teams who came from across Australia to enjoy this high country adventure involving trail running, mountain biking and kayaking, and a few other surprises along the way.

Rapid Ascent race director John Jacoby said.

Haines and Kennedy went out strongly from the start, navigated well through the technical sections and had a convincing lead at the end of day one.

“The ride down to Bogong Village was really rocky and technical but we worked together really well as a team. It’s an awesome spot here at Falls Creek. Today’s mountain bike with the single trails and downhill sections was the favourite section. The views are great with Feathertop and Hotham in the distance, and the Rocky Valley Lake is such a great place to paddle. It was really good fun and we’ll be back next year.”

Full results are available online at mountainraid.com.au