76th Annual SA vs VIC Challenge 2022

Glenhuntly Athletics (VIC) vs Western Athletics (SA)

76th Arthur Beames Challenge for the Mrs A.A.Theobald Shield

Sat 6th – Sun 21st August 2022

The Glenhuntly (VIC) vs Western Athletics (SA) contest is a long-standing tradition, run annually since 1947 (bar 2016) when the first race was held in Adelaide. Over the last couple of years, the race has taken place virtually, due to COVID-19 restrictions. Given the recent winter surge of covid and flu illnesses still causing uncertainty for many, we have opted to run the race virtually again in 2022.

The race distance in 2022 will be 3 km.

We encourage wide participation from both clubs, among our members, their families and friends.

Note: only past or present club members will be eligible for formal race awards.

Schedule

You have 16 days to complete the event in August –

anytime between 12.01am Saturday 1st August and 11.59pm Sun 21st August 2022

Venue

Anywhere you like (we would, however, recommend a flat course)

Registration

Please complete the entry form to enter and provide your estimated 3 km time for the event. You can access the form here

There is no cut-off time for entry, simply complete the form before you race (and run before 11:59 pm Sun 21st August).

Results

After running the distance, submit your time and location of your run (honesty, please!) into the same spreadsheet form here.

All results must be submitted by 12 noon Monday 22 August.

The prestigious Mrs A.A. Theobald Shield and prizes will go to the winning male (4 per team) and female (4 per team) teams.

Publication

Race report and results will be published on this page.

Social Media

The event is promoted on our Glenhuntly Facebook page and Twitter @ghyaths

Enquiries

Kara Gilbert

kara@kmgcommunications.com.au

Simon Bowly

simon.bowly@gmail.com

An enduring tradition of two athletics clubs

The Glenhuntly (VIC) vs Western Athletics (SA) contest is a long-standing tradition, running annually since 1947 (bar 2016) when the first race was held in Adelaide.The challenge emanated during World War II when able seaman, Wally Beames (Western Athletics) was stationed in Melbourne and, seeking competition, was directed to Caulfield Racecourse, the headquarters of Glenhuntly Athletics. He met and formed a friendship with Gus Theobald, and they conceived the idea of a challenge match between their clubs.

Both Glenhuntly Athletics and Western Athletics (formerly, Western Districts Athletics) were formed in the 1920s and have been influential and major forces in the development of sport in their respective states. Both clubs were strengthened by the amalgamation with their women’s clubs. In the early days, club teams travelled to Adelaide by train in a group, wearing club blazers. Later, as motor cars became more affordable, members travelled in groups of cars. Gus Theobald always led the way, taking passengers.

Gus Theobald, Peter Colthup and Trevor Vincent were prolific promoters of the event, over many decades and, due to them, the event has continued to this day. Some Glenhuntly members were prolific in billeting Western Athletics athletes, creating lasting friendships; in particular the Buller, Esmore and Vincent families. A women’s team’s race (3 per team) was added to the challenge in 2000. Glenhuntly has had the better of the contests, especially during the1960s to 2000.