About the club

Old Carey is a cross country club catering for all male and female athletes. Established in 1963 as a summer track club, the cross country club began in the 1960’s. Initially catering for past Carey Grammar students, it has since become an inclusive club welcoming athletes from all schools and clubs.

Old Carey competes in the Associated Public Schools Old Collegians Association. This 13 event, 10 club competition is held between April and September each year. Between 100 - 200 athletes compete for team points and individual trophies for men and women, both fastest times and handicaps. Distances range from 5km - 16km including three relays.

Events cater for all ages and standards. Athletes can compete both in the Athletics Victoria (AV) cross country season as well as the APSOC season, as the two associations run events on alternate Saturdays. The APSOC competition is renowned for its informality, friendliness and big afternoon teas held at the conclusion of each race.

Monday, May 18, 2009

Berwick Hares and Hounds 8km handicap

Well done to all OC athletes who competed. As in previous years, a small field contested this non-team points event. Many athletes seem happy "to pass" on this event but it remains one of the traditional races on the calender. It is also one of the few remaining true cross country races with country roads, hills, the odd goat track and a farm gate to negotiate. Despite a brief shower at race start, the weather stayed fine with conditions dry underfoot.
For the first time that I can recall our women outnumbered our men. Well done to all the girls who made it out and added to the enjoyment and spirit of the event.
Emma Steer was our fastest woman coming home strongly in 25th place and 5th woman, followed closely by Erin Carter. A warm welcome to new runners Inge Watson who is getting back to running after the recent birth of her little girl and Sarah Clement a past Carey student coming back to running from injury. Great to see you both. In addition, I can't help but mention the effort of Norma Gonzelez who comfortably completed the course despite being several months pregnant. We love Norma's enthusiasm and enjoyment of her running and she exemplifies the spirit of the competition.
Our men were down in numbers with Chris Papadakis our fastest finisher from Steve Grffin. Chris who road his bike to the event and then proceeded to burn around the course finishing with 3rd fastest scratch time and 4th in the handicap honours. Chris loves this course and every year turns on the after burners and produces a great run.
Next race is the Orchard 10km around Albert Park Lake.