The Victorian town of Wycheproof is limbering up for Australia’s toughest foot race.
The Riordan King of the Mountain is staged on the world’s official smallest mountain, which stands just 42 metres above the surrounding Mallee countryside.
Course aside, it’s no ordinary race. There’s a prize pool of $19,000 on offer across 10 race categories. The premiere King and Queen of the Mount events will face the extra challenge of hauling 60kg and 20kg bags of wheat respectively to the summit, recognising the wheat-growing region’s proud heritage, and the wheelbarrow racers will be weighed down (men: 60kg; women 20kg) with extra luggage.
Held on Saturday 28 September 2024, it’s an action-packed day of endurance-testing and fun.
After the races competitors and spectators will gather at Centenary Park, Wycheproof, for a community picnic lunch. The family event will include kids’ activities, food, drink stands, live music and the AFL Grand Final on the big screen.
Last year’s successful return attracted over 3,000 people and more than 120 competitors, far exceeding organisers’ expectations.
“It was an incredible comeback for an event that went into hibernation for 35 years,” Wycheproof Narraport Football Netball Club president Ricky Allan said.
“We were delighted to see so many people come along, spend the day with friends, and support our rural club. For visitors to town, it’s an opportunity to tackle the officially recognised smallest mountain in the world.”
Allan said the day had something for everyone. “We’ve changed the format to be more inclusive and the community has responded overwhelmingly,” he said.
“As well as being an opportunity for the community to come together, it’s a demonstration of what can be achieved by a dedicated band of volunteers and sponsors. It also provides an economic boost to the entire region, with pubs and accommodation packed for last year’s event.” Riordan Grains and Riordan Fuels are the major sponsor again this year, Jim Riordan, Managing Director, Riordan Grain Services, said.
“Riordan’s are pleased to support this unique event. The main race is an impressive demonstration of strength and stamina, and the wheelbarrow race is team work at its best. These values represent the backbone of our rural communities,” Jim said.
“We look forward to the competition and celebrating with everyone at the picnic afterwards,” he said.
The race categories include mountain dashes, wheelbarrow relays and the title event, with $5,000 on offer for the respective winners of the King and Queen of the Mountain events.
Entries for the King, Queen and Relay races close Wednesday 25 September, 2024, with Dash entries open until race day. Full details, including the race schedule, entry details, location maps and contact information, can be found on the King of the Mountain website: https://www.kingofthemount.com.au/