Endurance running and swimming events held in picturesque Port Stephens setting Photo Gallery Port POPUP - DAupdate Port Stephens Port Stephens News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - December 13, 2023 The start of the men’s 5 kilometre swim. ELITE Energy Events hosted their annual swimming and running events in Port Stephens over the weekend. ‘The Swim’ aka ‘Swim The Bay’ was held at Shoal Bay on a very hot Saturday on 9 December. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au With a range of distances for athletes to tackle along the calm waters of Shoal Bay, including 500 metres, 1.5 kilometres (km), 2.5km, 5km and 10km, Saturday’s event attracted a total of 297 entrants, with hundreds more onlookers observing from the Promenade. “We’re excited to be back in beautiful Port Stephens to host these events, with over a thousand participants expected over the next two days,” Elite Energy’s Christie McIlvride said. “Medifast are our local medical team for the day, and the local Surf Life Saving Club are providing water safety.” The 10km event kicked off proceedings at 07:30 am, when the air temperature was down to a generous 25 degrees celsius. Each event was given a thorough briefing beforehand, and the athletes were even offered free post-event massages from local professionals in the Fisiocrem tent. Saturday’s event was sponsored by Claire Harrop and her team from Zoggs Swimwear, who had a tent displaying an impressive array of new swim technology, including goggles and swimsuits. On Sunday 10 December, the action moved to Nelson Bay Marina for the ‘Run The Bay’ event. A range of distances were offered, with something for everyone, including a 2km Fun Run, 5km Fun Run, 10km Fun Run, Half Marathon and Marathon. Under cooler conditions and an overcast sky, the 42km marathon kicked off at 7:30 am, with the other runs following, bringing a total of 890 runners from all over the world. The marathon was won by Maurice Kelter from Kerry in Ireland with an amazing sub three hour run. “We love hosting events up in sunny Port Stephens, where the community rally around to cheer on participating athletes, get involved in events on the day, and welcome many friendly faces to the area for the weekend, sharing their stunning piece of the world and showing off that community spirit we all know and love,” said Emerton, owner of Elite Energy Events. “The Swim and The Run aren’t just about the sport; they’re about providing a welcome space for people of all ages and abilities to have a crack, and bask in a sense of community. “The events featured a wellness festival at the event hub, including health and fitness exhibitors, kids games, local food vendors including slushies and coffee, music and entertainment. “Athletes and spectators alike were welcomed to explore the latest in health and fitness, gain behind the scenes access to leading brands, cheer on eager athletes, and engage in activities that promote overall well-being, all the while enjoying a fantastic family day out along Shoal Bay and Nelson Bay.” Congratulations to all the participants who competed in a very warm but successful weekend. For full results and more information on Elite Energy Events, visit www.eliteenergy.com.au. By Simon EKINS Nelson Bay local Michele Goodman finishing the Half Marathon. Marathon winner Maurice Kelter crosses the line. The start of the Marathon event. Marathon runners take off on their 42 kilometre journey. Marathon runners hit the streets. The Shoal Bay registration tent. Athletes had access to free massages. A briefing prior to the 5km swim event. Men’s 5km swimmers ready for action.
