Steamer races with a twist

“We are a running event, which is held along the Murray River through the port area of Echuca,” Sweat vs Steam event director Sarah Mulkearns said.

“The main drawcard of the event is that participants run against a paddlesteamer, aiming to beat the paddlesteamer to the finish line.

“Our claim to fame is that we race against the oldest operating wooden hauled paddle steamer in the world, which is the PS Adelaide.”

The running event comprises four courses: a 5km, a 10km, a 2km junior river run and a 600 metre kids dash.

The event is suitable for all levels, abilities and ages, with the junior river run for children eight to 12 years old and the kids’ dash for anyone under 12.

The whole premise of the Sweat vs Steam is that everybody runs, and the money raised goes back into the community in the form of grants.

“All the money that is raised goes into the grant fund and then we distribute those funds to those awarded a grant,” Sarah said.

“A sporting club, a school, not for profit organisation, even individuals can apply for a grant.

“I know that last year, we raised $12,000 that went back into the community.”

In 2022 the event had almost 400 participants and is hoping to beat that number of entries this year.

If running is not your thing, you are able to cruise on the PS Adelaide as part of the race or take up one of the great vantage points around the course.

“Last year, I think there were about a dozen people who beat the boat,” she said.

“It depends on how fast the river is flowing, that’s what the skipper said.”

Sweat vs Steam will be held on Sunday, October 8 from 8am at the Hopwood Gardens, Echuca. To enter Sweat vs Steam, visit https://www.sweatvssteam.com.au/