Overall, the day was said to be a rousing success, and one of the people involved in organising the festival, Greg Kings, says it was due to a united effort from a dedicated group of people.

"It was a massive team effort from everybody involved, Andrew Kirby, Mike Stevenson, Annie Kirkwood, Pauline Kirby, the Hat Head Triathlon Club and our other volunteers," he said.

"We couldn't have asked for a better day, perfect weather, and over 500 runners from multiple states taking part."

Unfortunately, the annual event was cancelled last year due to COVID-19 restrictions, but returned bigger and better than ever for 2021.

The course in particular was noted as being exceptionally good.

"From what I've heard, everyone was thrilled with the route of the course; we've had no complaints from any of our competitors," Kings said.

"Thanks to everyone for coming, and to our sponsors for their ongoing support."

For a complete list of results, and more information about the South West Rocks Running Festival, visit their website at: southwestrocksrunfest.com.au.

Macleay River Marathon

Over 40 runners took part in the 42.2 kilometre Marathon event this year; 39 of those managed to finish.

1.First over the line was Clifford Hoeft, with a finish time of 03:18:50.

2.Coming in a relatively close second was Kirby Clarke with a time of 03:31:36.

3.Rounding out the rest of the top three was Peter Hancock, who finished in 03:35:08.

Half Marathon

This year the 21.1km Half Marathon had 143 people participate, with 139 ultimately finishing the course.

1.Coming in first was Tim Dennis, with a finish time of 01:14:08.

2.Close behind in second place was Isaiah Koopmans on 01:14:44.

3.In third place was John Doyle 01:17:13.

10 Kilometre Run

The always popular 10 Kilometre Run had the largest number of participants, with 176 signing up for the event, and 166 finishers.

1.Joe Begbie was the first runner across the line with a time of 00:32:27.

2.Ryan Binskin took out second place with a time of 00:33:30.

3.Stuart Eddy came in third with a time of 00:33:39.

5 Kilometre Fun Run

Over 150 people signed up for the 5 Kilometre Fun Run this year, and 146 managed to get across the line.

1.In first place was Ryan Binskin with a lighting fast time of 00:16:27.

2.Trent Alley came in second with a time of 00:16:59.

3.In third, was Keelan Brien with a time of 00:17:29.

The 2021 South West Rocks Running Festival was sponsored by Coastline Credit Union, Kempsey Shire Council, South West Rocks Country Club, DGI trading Australia, CDCM Kitchens + Bathrooms, South West Rocks Family Dental Surgery and Booroongen Djugun LTD Community Care Service.

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