Training on the generally flat roads around Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest, the local joggers were not well prepared for what confronted them when they arrived at Wallaroo. Upon arrival, it was obvious to everyone that the forest was made of hills, hills and more hills, almost reaching mountain status.

The 10-kilometre race commenced with the starter's gun shattering the peace and serenity of the idyllic scenery. The first section was nice and flat and it continued for about 1000metres before the first hill was sighted on the fire trail.

The hilly section continued virtually throughout the entire race, with the only relief being some downhill parts littered with unstable rocks along with mud and puddles covering the whole trail.

Local runner Col Bertram had a strategy to take off after seven kilometres, however after all the hills he revised his plan and decided to just tough it out to the finishing line.

Other members, Barbara Stevens and Allan Wilson, were also gob smacked by the treacherous terrain and the extremely difficult cross-country course. Barbara was heard to say that it was the most difficult race conditions she had ever encountered, despite winning her age category.

A later race, two hours later of six kilometres through the same trails, was undertaken by husband and wife team of Patricia and Allan Wilson.

It was Pat's introduction to 'fun' runs, as she only started jogging about two months ago. Such a scary, hilly introduction could have been expected to put her off for life, but when she got to the finish and heard the applause of the crowd, it made it all worthwhile. Winning the husband and wife category was a bonus that she never expected, even in her wildest dreams.

All local runners were grateful to their coach, Charles Ringuet from Tea Gardens, who passes on his valuable training tips and provides training programs. Charles has been an elite cyclist and athlete, and coaches local runners plus people from Sydney and beyond, free of charge.

Meanwhile in Sydney, fellow Myall Miler, Peter Hodges, was running a half marathon in preparation for running his first marathon of 42 kilometres on the Gold Coast in July.

Peter finished in a very competitive time of one hour 56 minutes, which puts him in good stead for the upcoming marathon.