The Team

Liz & the yorkies story.

What’s your name and where are you from?
I’m Liz, a teacher from York, WA.

​

How did you first hear about the Blackwood Marathon and when did you get involved?
I first competed in the early 2000s on the horse leg and in 2005 I gathered some friends to form our team - the Yorkies. We’ve now been doing it together for 20 years!

​

All five original members still compete, even though we’ve now graduated into the ranks of Vets (and maybe even Super Vets!). I’m the only one still living in York, but our ties to the town are strong and we’re proud to represent it each year.

​

We’ve never bothered with team shirts before, but to mark our 20th year we decided it was time, so this year, we finally have our long-awaited Yorkies shirts.

​

What are some of your most memorable moments from the event?
There have been so many! Probably those early years camping at Wheatley’s Farm - the camaraderie with other teams and the sense of achievement at the end of the day.

 

The Blackwood has been a huge part of my life for so long. It’s often been the only thing I’ve done just for me amid a hectic life as a full-time working mum of four. The joyful involvement of family and friends has made it one of my favourite weekends of the year.

​

It keeps me riding, which I love, and staying fit. I still ride five days a week while working full-time and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

 

What makes this event different from others?
It’s got such a community feel. It’s not just about competing, it’s about connection and friendship. It’s one of those rare events that brings families and friends together, year after year.

 

Is the Marathon a family tradition for you?
Definitely! My sister Sarah, my brother-in-law Tim and their children have all competed for years, and all four of my kids have formed teams and competed.

​

When they were in high school, I’d drive a horse truck to Bridgetown loaded with four horses, kayaks, bikes, tents and kids - it was chaos, but we loved it! At one point I was organising four teams and the kids all had a ball.

 

My daughter Jemma has competed as an Ironwoman several times, first at age 16 and of course, came second to her aunty Sarah! She still takes part every year, either solo or in a team.

​

My dad used to help with horse vetting and logistics and Mum would drive her little Suzuki Swift down gravel tracks ferrying bikes and gear. It really is a family affair.

 

What does the event mean to you personally?
The event has cemented a place in my heart as one of my favourite weekends of the year. It’s my time - a chance to ride, connect with friends and family and be part of something special. It keeps me active, grounded and grateful.

 

Why do you think the event should continue for future generations?
The Blackwood was one of the first multisport relays and it’s become iconic. Thousands of people have shared experiences, stories and memories through it. It deserves to continue for generations to come.

 

What advice would you give to someone entering for the first time?
Have fun and don’t take it too seriously! The atmosphere is amazing, and the challenge is all part of the joy.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​