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RAY
OF LIGHT: SMNCIS Michael Baruch stretches out during the
78km cycle leg of the Mars Challenge endurance event in
Victoria.
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By
WO Peter Kenworthy
In his first attempt at a long distance endurance event, from
Ballarat to Barwon
Heads, young HMAS Cerberus trainee SMNCIS Michael Baruch impressed
onlookers with his determination.
The event called the Mars Challenge, comprised of a demanding
20km run, 78km cycle and a 32km kayak paddle.
Over the past few years, SMNCIS Baruch has competed in a variety
of 10km and 20km fun runs, however, he thought it was time for
a change to a more challenging sport.
Competing against 43 other athletes, SMNCIS Baruch completed the
run leg in 25th position in a time of 1hr, 46min and 16sec, despite
having to stop and stretch severe cramps in his hamstrings.
After a quick transition for the bike leg, he got off to a flying
start.
He overtook two competitors in the first 10km, then another three
competitors by the 60km mark. He finished the bike leg in 20th
position, in a time of 2hrs, 23min and 54sec.
In the kayak leg SMNCIS Baruch used a big sea kayak (on loan from
Cerberus), but felt disadvantaged in comparison to his fellow
competitors using specific racing K1 kayaks.
He did, however, complete the leg in a respectable 4hrs, 34min
and 15sec.
SMNCIS Baruch Crossed the finish- line a very credible 31st, after
8hrs, 44min and 25sec of endurance racing. He was impressed with
his efforts and succeeded in completing his goal of finishing
the race and having fun doing it.
“I now have a taste for competition and am ready to take it further
as I prepare for the duathlon series here in Victoria,” SMNCIS
Baruch said.
SMNCIS Baruch expressed his thanks to his support crew: SMNCSO
Alan Peterson and SMNCIS Amanda Hartley; Cerberus Sports Council
and his coach Jodie Barker.
