Runners from across Australia descended on Castlemaine’s Camp Reserve for the 2026 Castlemaine Gift, which is a popular fixture in the Victorian Athletics League calendar.
The day was much cooler than previous years with overcast skies and intermittent showers, but this did not dampen the spirits or the enthusiasm of the athletics. More than 374 registered entrants battled it out across a range of distances for a swag of prize money and gifts generously supported by local businesses.
The day kicked off at 10am with the youngest runners hitting the grass in the junior Gift events before the official program kicked off at 10.45am.
The 120 metre Women’s Gift sponsored by Leech Earthmoving, Gunangara Estate, Woolworths and Maree Edwards MP was once again a highlight with last year’s winner Ruby Crisp nabbing her consecutive win against team mate Katie Moore in a photo finish.
In the men’s event 120m Men’s Gift sponsored by Novo Resources and Woolworths Brendan Matthews was a clear winner claiming honours from nearest rival Barnabas Ronto.
For more see this Friday’s Castlemaine Mail or visit visit val.org.au/program for the full results.
