The records may not have fallen last Sunday, but according to Event Director Mike Maher, the top three races were closely contested and there were “tremendous finisher results”.

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Young local runner Hunter Pociask was a particular stand-out.

“He’s been chasing the 5km win for a few years. This year he had his success,” Mr Maher said.

The decision to run the event before the school holidays proved to be “a hit”.

“Not only did it bring visitors into the region before the holiday period, it also enabled us to start the main event just after the sun had rolled over the horizon.”

Individual and team marathon runners activated their Strava trackers (GPS) and set off from Port Macquarie’s Town Beach at the crack of dawn.

They were followed by the start of the half-marathon run or walk and the 10km and 5km run and walk events.

The men’s and women’s winners were:

– Men’s Marathon: Aaron Eichner, 3:38:10.

– Women’s Marathon: Camilla Lyttle, 04:15:33

– Team Relay: “Runstable Angina”, 4:19:39.

– Men’s Half Marathon: Chris Noble, 1:58:51.

– Women’s Half Marathon: Leisl Major 2:11:06

– 10km: Trent Alley, 00:51:41. Monika Ludriks, 00:59:08.

– 5km: Hunter Pociask, 00:41:09. Mia Wheeler, 00:47:40.

Mr Maher provided News Of The Area with an update on the runner who had to be airlifted from North Haven to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle.

“We witnessed the professionalism and expertise of first responders when one of our own runners experienced a heart attack while on course.

“The patient underwent surgery and is in a good condition.”

All marathon and half-marathon runners were expected to carry a mobile phone and have the event’s emergency response number saved on the device.

Mr Maher said the runner followed these rules and quickly activated the number.

“If it wasn’t for the prompt management implemented by our paramedic students from CSU (Charles Sturt University), NSW Ambulance Officers and the Careflight team, our runner may not have survived.”

The incident and the event sponsorship provided by Coast Cardiology, are a reminder for everyone to undergo regular health checks.

“We would love for everyone, active or not, to please take this opportunity to reflect on their own risk factors for heart disease, visit their GP for a checkup if needed, and make sure they don’t become a statistic,” Mr Maher said.

“Major risk factors include high blood pressure and cholesterol, diabetes, family history and smoking.

“Despite the medical emergency, 97 percent of all participants completed the course, and finished on a high at the top of North Brother Mountain.

“The atmosphere was ecstatic. People stayed a long time, picnicking, enjoying the view, and celebrating their own and others’ achievements.”

By Sue STEPHENSON