ADF runners wind their way through Nerrabup National Park in the WA Interservice Crosscountry.

Photo by AB Joanne Edwards, NIU-

Army run down the champs in the west

LS Jason Hutchinson
This year’s WA Interservice Cross-country on July 14, in Nerrabup National Park saw Army put an end to the Navy’s 15-year hold on the title.

The weather couldn’t have been better for the 10km run, which weaved through the Yaberoo Budjara Walking Trail.

Although the Navy had been a strong contender, it was obvious from the start that the reigning champions were in trouble.

Both the Army and Air Force had ten competitors but the Navy had only mustered five. The race began at 11am, and was fairly close for the first couple of kilometres, but the field gradually spread out at the half way mark.

The course was unforgiving with its undulation and soft sand underfoot, which made it extremely difficult for runners to get into a rhythm.

Pte David Ross was first to cross the line with a time of 41:49, Smn Bradley Pethers was second with a time of 43: 00, closely followed by Flt-Lt Malcom Walker at 43:20 minutes.

The first female to finish was Pte Cindy Greenfield in a time of 48:08, second place, Pte Bernadette Rogash, 50:23 and third was Smn Vanessa Doyle in 1:02.05.

Army were clear winners ahead of the Air Force and the Navy.