the second time.

Wallington has now won three of the four women’s crowns at the annual run up Mt Canobolas, stamping

herself as a force in mountain running.

Defending her title was made harder for Wallington, as she had to complete most of the inclined run with a gash on her left knee, after falling early in the race.

But the 18-year-old completed the 11km course in 54 minutes nine seconds to better her previous event best

by nearly two minutes.

Wallington’s time was good enough for second overall and

Gleeson says she pushed him hard.

Gleeson crossed the finish line in 52 minutes 28 seconds, eight seconds slower than his previous best.

Yesterday’s victory follows his win earlier this month in the Colour City Running Festival half-marathon.

Wallington tested Gleeson, who feels he is running well at the moment, ahead of his Canberra Marathon campaign next month.

“I feel as though I’m running well and Veronica was pushing me most of the way as well,” Gleeson said.

“I sort of broke away from the start, but Veronica was within sight most of the way - her and Rob Bennett - so

they were keeping me honest.”

Bennett finished third behind Gleeson and Wallington, with the 16- year-old Orange runner showing he is

someone to watch in the future.

The Great Volcanic Mountain Challenge has grown in popularity since its birth in 2006, with a record

361 runners taking part in the gruelling event yesterday.