Community & Business
18 April, 2024
Local doctor named face of 21st race
A LOCAL doctor with a passion for fitness has been named the 2024 Great Wheelbarrow Race Face Of The Race.
Dr Nathan Walmsley was one of the very first locals to run in the inaugural race 21 years ago and has raced seven times since.
Whether as a soloist, in a duo, trio or team, he has taken on the great race several times in the past alongside friends, family and colleagues.
He said he was excited to take on the extra responsibilities as the face of the race and was keen to get back on the road to Chillagoe.
“The race has been something I have always really loved and enjoyed doing over a number of years – I was in the first race,” he said.
“This year will be a bit more exciting as I will be running as well.”
This year, Dr Walmsley will be racing again in a trio alongside his son Seth and his friend Emanuel Gunten, under the team name “We’re Not Bustards Yet” – a named inspired by his favourite bird, the bustard.
He will also be engaging runners in fitness and nutrition programs before and during the race, to help keep all runners safe and healthy during the 140km feat.
“We will be doing a training program because in the past we have had people who may not have eaten properly or had to many energy drinks or a bit too much beer at the pub and not enough water and that hasn’t worked out great for them,” he said.
“There have also been some people who think they can run faster than they can or slower, which can effect change overs, so we will be focusing on that and our eating because we don’t want any accidents this year.
“It is going to be a fun year this year and we will do the best we can do and enjoy the race. It is a great community event, and (to everyone competing), you won’t regret it.”
The Great Wheelbarrow Race will kick off on 10 May in Mareeba and will finish in Chillagoe on 12 May. To register, visit www.greatwheelbarrowrace.com.au
