Wicked Women, from left, Rosie Burns, Rosie Cuff, Martine Spencer and Larissa King, let their emotions overflow at the finish line of the Oxfam Trailwalker event.By Paul Pickering
AS COMPETITORS in the Oxfam Trailwalker trudged their way through the hills last weekend, they could have been excused for thinking the forces of nature had conspired against them.
No doubt they anticipated that the 100km trek would pose a challenge, but few could have prepared for the days of 37 degree heat, gusty winds and torrential rain that would accompany them on their journey from Jells Park to Wesburn Park.
For hills hikers Wicked Women, who have 16 children between them, the inclement weather was merely another obstacle for the team to overcome together.
Kallista’s Martine Spencer said: “The conditions really made you support each other even more and the camaraderie with the other teams was amazing.”
Ms Spencer’s intrepid crew included fellow Kallista residents Rosie Cuff and Larissa King, as well as Tecoma’s Rosie Burns.
She says the experience has taken the group from virtual strangers to lifelong friends.
“Being together has been the most fantastic experience,” she said.
“We’ve got to know each other so well.”
In a bid to cool off on the scorching Friday afternoon, the ladies decided to take an impromptu dip in Lysterfield Lake.
Saturday’s downpour also provided scope for some levity, with a mud fight breaking out en-route to the finish line.
“When you’ve stripped down to your undies for a swim together, and had a mud fight with them, I think your friends for life,” Ms Spencer laughed.
Kathy McLinden, the Trailwalker’s national coordinator, congratulated the Melbourne contingent for its physical and mental endurance, praising the competitors for “always managing to keep a smile on their faces.”
Ms McLinden noted that this year’s event has raised $1.4 million, with donations still pouring in.
The Wicked Women managed to exceed all personal expectations by contributing $8000 to the pool.
Ms Spencer admits to being totally enamoured with the event.
“It’s absolutely brilliant the way it really brings out the best in people,” she said.
Next year, she says, the ladies plan to pass the baton on to their husbands.
