Pro Running

What is Pro running?

Professional running began in Australia in the gold-mining days. Races were conducted over various distances in the late 1800’s as the simple act of competitive running was considered a little boring. Athletes raced for gold nuggets or prize money. In WA it would appear that as early as 1906 races were conducted in the goldfields, in front of crowds of up to 100,000 who witnessed exploits such as Queenslander Arthur Postle breaking the 75 yards world record.

Pro running is designed to ensure that every athlete has a chance to win some prize money. This means that athletes are allocated a handicap according to their ability. The fastest runner is placed on a backmark and gives a start to slower runners. Handicap racing is an Australian tradition where every competitor is given a chance to share in success. Horse racing (Melbourne Cup) and bike racing (Austral Wheelrace) are examples of handicap racing in Australia. The most famous pro race in Australia is the Stawell Gift held in Victoria every Easter.

Proposed Events
Below are the proposed events for the 2010-11 Pro-Running season. Please be advised that entry forms and details for each event are still to be finalised. They will however be posted on this page.

Mullewa Gift - Saturday 28th August - Results

Dardanup Gift - Saturday 9th October

City of Perth Festival of Sport Pro-Race - Saturday/Sunday 20-21 November

Kevan Hook is the Pro-Running co-ordinator for season 2010-11. Any queries should be directed to him.

Contact Details

Kevan Hook - Pro-Running co-ordinator
Athletics WA
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Phone: 0419 831 643

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