Competing in the World Masters Mountain Running Championships in Italy last month was a steep learning curve for Tony Williams – literally and figuratively.
The race in Susa near the French border is short, but steep – climbing 1400m over 11km for an average gradient of 17.5 per cent.
Williams, a personal trainer at Plus Fitness in Katoomba, represented Australia with teammate Steve Brennan in the male 50-54 years category.
While the course started on a flat 2km section, it quickly began its steep ascent over 9km on rough tracks. The 51-year-old from Mount Victoria said his legs were burning after the first 6.5km before a “flat-ish” respite for one kilometre. The incline then kicked in again at a 20-25 per cent grade for 3km.
Williams came 39th in his age group in 1:37:27, five minutes under what he expected.
“It was an awesome experience racing against such talented athletes and representing Australia,” he said.
“I am used to doing very well in races in Australia so it was very humbling to be outclassed on such a tough course
“I usually race ultra marathons so at the end of the hill I was gaining some places. The ability of the faster athletes to run on inclines that I could only walk was amazing,” he said.
“I have learned a lot from this experience and it has increased my motivation to do well in future events.”
The next future event for Williams is the Cross Triathlon World Championships in Thredbo in November.
“The cross triathlon format is intense,” he said. “The swim is all out, with arms and legs thrashing around everywhere. The mountain bike racing is technical and very fast. On the bike I felt like a kid again - resulting in a few too many stacks! The running is my strength and feels easy to me after all that craziness.”
Plus Fitness Katoomba and Tailwind Nutrition Australia helped support Williams in getting to the World Masters Mountain Running Championships. The Katoomba gym is also sponsoring him in Thredbo.
