Fairhaven Surf Life Saving Club welcomed more than 500 runners and walkers to the 2024 Tim Gates Classic earlier today (Sunday, January 7) in sweltering and humid conditions along the Surf Coast’s coastline.

Fairhaven SLSC president Nancy Joseph said the Classic’s atmosphere was lively despite the event moving to a morning timeslot to account for the tide.

“It was a really successful day,” Ms Joseph said.

Michael Kernahan (34:17) earned victory in the 10km run ahead of Felix Lonergan (39:28), while Oliver Moore (19:51) triumphed in the 5km run/walk event.

Sammy Gates, the daughter of deceased Fairhaven lifesaver and the event’s namesake, Tim Gates, honoured her late-father’s memory by winning the Open Women’s 5km run in 22:57.

Ms Gates, usually a participant in the 10km run, finished the 5km course in 22:57, ahead of Eliza Vesey (23:26).

Olivia Knowles (45:06) was too strong in the Open Women’s 10km run, finishing ahead of Maeve Martyn (51:23) and Grace Wootton (54:32).

Read full Surf Coast Times story here.

Image credit: The 2024 Tim Gates Classic is in the books with hundreds attending the annual fun run in Fairhaven. Photos: PETER MARSHALL