"Thinking of dad": Tim Gates' daughter among fun run winners

THE daughter of deceased Fairhaven lifesaver Tim Gates said it was “tremendous” to win the Open Women’s 5 kilometer run in her father’s honour at Sunday’s Tim Gates Classic.

Sammy Gates, the eldest of her late-father’s three daughters, finished the Open 5km run in 22:57.

Runners Claire Piotrowski and Andrew Beecroft. Photos: PETER MARSHALL

Ms Gates, who usually takes part in the 10km run event, said it was an emotional moment knowing her father was watching over her as she finished first across the finish line.

“I didn’t expect the win to be honest given I haven’t been training much lately but every time I enter this event I’m always thinking of dad,” Ms Gates said after the race.

More than 500 runners registered for this year’s Tim Gates Classic.

“It’s a time of the year that means so much to my family and I.

“My whole life he’d be at any running event I did and run up the finish line with me.

“This event gives me a lot of confidence and it’s nice to be supported by the whole Fairhaven community.”

Vision-impaired participants from Achilles Sophie, Monica, Marg, and Claudia joined by Fairhaven SLSC president Nancy Joseph (right).

More than 500 runners and walkers attended Sunday’s Tim Gates Classic despite sweltering and humid conditions along the Surf Coast’s coastline.

Fairhaven SLSC president Nancy Joseph said the classic’s atmosphere was lively despite the morning timeslot to account for the tide.

“It was a really successful day,” Ms Joseph said.

“Everyone arrived for the event with smiles on their faces ready to support the Tim Gates Foundation and honouring Tim once again.”

Michael Kernahan (34:17) earned victory in the 10km run ahead of Felix Lonergan (39:28), while Oliver Moore (19:51) triumphed in the 5km run/walk event.

Runners and walkers began their runs on Fairhaven Beach in front of the life saving club.

Ms Gates finished the 5km course ahead of Eliza Vesey (23:26), while Olivia Knowles (45:06) was too strong in the Open Women’s 10km run, finishing ahead of Maeve Martyn (51:23) and Grace Wootton (54:32).

Other 5km category winners include Ben Charles (Under 14 Male – 21:36), Rosie Frost (Under 14 Female – 31:08), Charley Gibson (Under 18 – 19:47), Matilda Marshall (Under 18 – 24:25), Andy Catchlove (Masters Male – 18:26), Kellie Gibson (Masters Female – 22:26), Richard Gluyas (Legends Male – 32:45), and Shally Hawkins (Legends Female – 34:20).

Andy Catchlove finished first overall in the 5km run event.

Other 10km category winners include Dan McNeil (Under 18 Male – 42:56), Ulrich Janecka (Masters Male – 49:16), Liz Charles (Masters Female – 54:28), James Orr (Legends Male – 48:34), and Monica Wong (Legends Female – 1:15:09).