Twenty-five years on from the event’s inception in 1998, runners will once again test themselves against the iconic vessel, with the PS Pevensey taking on competitors this year over the five or 10km course that traverses the banks of the Murray River.
Sweat vs Steam event director Sarah Mulkearns said the quintessential Echuca Moama event was so special as it remained a unique experience for competitors.
“Obviously the big one is that all participants are racing against the paddle steamer, this year we’re going against the PS Pevensey,” she said.
“So that in itself, and just the Echuca Port area, to be able to run through the Discovery Centre this year, which is different to previous years, is really unique for all the participants.”
As the event continues to rebuild from a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as a route change last year due to flooding, Mulkearns said that participation numbers looked to be steadily increasing.
“Last year we had 349, and we’ve just ticked over that (on Wednesday), so we’re looking at close to 400 participants,” she said.
“Probably 10 years ago it got to over 500 participants, so we’re working our way back up to that. It just keeps gaining in popularity since COVID and the floods, so we’re coming back from that.”
The paddle steamer aspect isn’t the only unique feature about the race, which serves as a community fundraiser.
Aimed at fostering a sense of community and connection, any proceeds from the event help local organisations or schools, which Mulkearns said had remained the case since the very first run.
“Since its inception that was the whole premise of the event, so any funds that are raised from the event go back into the community,” she said.
“This year we’re on track to raise about $15,000 and we’ve got about 10 to 15 community clubs or groups and schools that we’re able to donate that money back into, which is fantastic.”
While many people complete either the 10km or 5km race, there are also options for juniors and spectators alike, with a 2km river run for kids aged between eight and 12, while all kids aged under 12 can compete in the 600m dash.
Those who aren’t running are still able to get involved, with limited spots available to be apart of the race on the water.
“The Pevensey’s going to be running, so tickets can be organised through the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre,” Mulkearns said.
“You can grab tickets to watch from front row seats on the paddle steamer as the participants are running along the river.”
Mulkearns also reminded those who haven’t entered yet to do so soon, with the registration deadline quickly approaching.
“There are no on-day entries, entries close at 5pm on Saturday,” she said.
“So, make sure you get your last-minute entry in if you still want to join us, otherwise come down and spectate.
“It’s a fantastic spectator-friendly event with two laps on the run course, and we’ll be based at Hopwood Gardens.”
All events will start and finish at Hopwood Gardens in Echuca. The 10km race will commence proceedings at 8am, the 5km race will begin at approximately 8.25am, and the kids dash will get under way at approximately 9.15am.
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