Pete Loveridge powered home to win the 2022 Gunnedah Gallop on Sunday – spurred on by family members roadside.

The veteran Gunnedah athlete stopped the clock in a time of 30 minutes and 23 seconds in the 8km race.

“I thought I might go under 30 (minutes) but I’m not as fit as I once was,” Loveridge said.

Having competed in triathlons and ironman events throughout Australia and around the world, Loveridge said it was great returning to his home track after some time away from the training circuit.

“I don’t think I’ve competed in a race since before the COVID pandemic,” he said.

Best of all was the family support shown for Loveridge as he completed the Gunnedah course – supporter signs and all.

“I saw my son cheering us on at Stock Road,” he said.

Second home in the 8km distance was Adam Farquhar (31.39 minutes), followed by Ricky Graham, in third place (32:29).

This year’s Gallop was hosted by the Rotary Club of Gunnedah after taking over the reins from Rotary 2380 which has since folded.
Rotary Club of Gunnedah president Mike Silver was pleased to see 80 competitors lace up for this year’s event despite the difficult circumstances – not least widespread road closures due to flooding.

“There was at least 20 who couldn’t get in because of the flood,” Silver said.

Usually held in September, this year’s Gallop was delayed due to the changeover between event hosts. It was also the first running of the Gallop since pre-COVID times.

Silver said these challenges also reduced entry numbers somewhat but the overall response was a positive one.

“It was great to see it back on the community calendar,” he said.

About 30 Rotarians, including volunteers from the Rotary Club of Gunnedah West, assisted on the day in duties that included everything from the barbecue to marshalling and more.

The club has plans to host the Gallop again next year, hopefully with a return to the traditional September date.

Silver offered a parting thanks to all competitors who took part in the 2022 Gunnedah Gallop.

“Without people wanting to participate, it wouldn’t happen,” he said.

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