28.01.2008

Fearnley takes fourth straight Oz Day

Kurt Fearnley’s 2008 account has opened in the same manner as his brilliant 2007, equalling his course record in the annual Oz Day 10km wheelchair race.

The 26 year-old again finished the Sydney Rocks precinct circuit in 20:32, his fourth consecutive victory in the event.

“It's great to get off to a winning start in a Paralympic year,” he said. “After last year’s results I really wanted to make sure I didn’t start flat.

“I was a little surprised at the time, it’s early in the season and I’ve been in heavy training. It’s a great start to a big year.”

World champion over every distance from the 800m through to the marathon, Fearnley’s 2007 included 10 marathon victories from 11 starts and two world titles (1500m, 10km).

However, this year presents him with the opportunity to defend the Paralympic gold medals won in Athens in the 5000m and marathon events.

Courtesy Michael Turner