In 2011 our vision was to move forward with the Foundation setting up an event under the fundraising banner and putting a fee to it to generate further funds for the Foundation.
Sunday January 8th, 2012 saw the inaugural Tim Gates Classic Fun Run/Walk take place along the beach from the Fairhaven SLSC to Spout Creek and back.
Four years on it was a wonderful tribute to Tim to see so many people honour his memory and again support the Foundation. It was the perfect way to remember Tim and celebrate his passions, as well as putting the Fairhaven Surf Club on the map with a formal event.
The weekend was packed with lifesaving sport – Cosy Corner Nippers Carnival, Lorne Pier to Pub, the Mountain to Surf Run, Anglesea Summer Surf Series and the Time Gates Classic Fun Run/Walk.
With near perfect weather (despite some wind resistance!) and tide conditions the event took place late on Sunday afternoon. 450 competitors took their positions on the beach with a good spread across the 3 categories – juniors, open and masters.
Winners of the male and female open events were elite athletes. However the third placing of Sammy Gates, daughter of Tim Gates, in the 10km Open Female was the most significant result for club members.
There always has to be someone who stands out in the crowd and Josh Maher, alias Batman, started off strongly but I fear his gumboots got the better of him!
The Club was thrilled with the first running of the event and raised over $13,833.00 after all costs. As a result of the income raised the Tim Gates Foundation has been able to made a significant donation to ‘Saving the Club’. Without a club we cannot continue teaching lifesaving skills and educating young people in the surf.
An event such as this could not have got off the ground without a huge amount of work from Club members.
I would particularly like to thank Dave Thompson and his team who worked tirelessly to make sure this happened. We could not have done without the computer skills of Alan Martin or the support of the medical team organised by Ned Douglas. I would also like to thank the generous sponsors – Emma and Tom’s, New Balance, Great Ocean Books, Matt Kennet @ Wide Ideas and The Airey’s Inlet Hotel.
Drinks and meals on the back lawn proved to be another huge success and once again could only happen with the support and commitment from club members. I am sure the South Australian surfboat crew will be back in force next year!
If you would like to donate to the Time Gates Foundation cheques can be sent c/- Fairhaven SLSC P.O. Box 221, Airey’s Inlet 3231 or online Bendigo Bank, the Tim Gates Foundation, BSB 633108 A/C 137997128.
