Before the event, the atmosphere in the Vicky Uni camp crackled with an electrifying blend of anticipation and confidence.
Did they have the numbers?
They dared to dream of snatching the coveted Dorne Cup from the clutches of the perennial favourites, the Scots who seemed doomed with their dearth of seasoned and fast runners.
Yet, there was a glimmer of hope for WHAC especially if the elusive Callum Stewart could just make it to the starting line.
And then there is the Palmy Army on a return sortie out to upset the apple cart, so to speak.
However, it was the resplendent Green and Gold of Vicky that emerged triumphant, a feat not witnessed in eons, if ever before.
As the two-lap 8km race unfolded (water crossings included), with less than 400m to go, it seemed as though the raiding Palmy Army might have stolen a march on the modest favourites, packing their three top runners within the first four finishers.
But as they say, it's not just the top or the fat lady singing, it's about the depth, and Vicky had it in spades! Even with their last counter, Dan Hunt, crossing the line in 20th place, clad in his iconic orange running trousers,
Vicky amassed the crucial points, sealing their victory even without the presence of Eric Speakman.
In an impressive display of individual prowess, Nathan Tse from WHAC stormed to the win, echoing his solo effort triumph in the Vosseler with a respectable time of 25.03.
Yet the race was far from a solitary affair, as Andre le Pine Day, and George Varney of the Palmy Army maintained pressure right to the line picking up 2nd and 3rd place respectively, in what must have been a blindingly close finish.
The excitement wasn't confined to the men's race alone.
Maia Flint of Vicky Uni showcased her dominance in the open women's grade once more, seizing the women's 6km race in an excellent time of 25.03.
Hot on her heels, but not quite an imminent danger, was Kumiko Otani from WHAC, and Natasha Rae, formerly of WHAC now with North Shore Bays, who battled fiercely for second and third place, igniting the grass with their fiery determination.
Kumiko in particular delighted the waiting tricoteuses at the river crossing by stumbling a bit, or maybe a lot and Sharon Wray wasn't even there!. This is the stuff of history.
But amidst the adrenaline-fueled competition, let's not forget the unsung heroes. Sally Gibbs the indomitable master from Whanganui, dazzled with her 6th place overall and an impeccable performance in the W60 grade, reminding us all why in running circles she's a national treasure.
And as the younger contenders, carved their paths to glory, Lorcan Rabitte of Vicky Uni narrowly edged out a determined Desmond Reedy of Olympic in the Men's 4km U18 and U20 race, both claiming victories in their age grades.
But behind them, the six-year rivalry between Max Poland and Josh Jordan continued to be battled out. Both with the United Trentham clan. JJ even ran the 8km race later as did Lorcan Rabitte. They were just making sure they got their feet really wet.
Meanwhile, in the Women's 4km U18 and U20 race, Ava Sutherland of Olymoic and Poppy Healey left no doubts as they claimed winners medals in their respective age categories, painting the event with the vibrant hues of youthful exuberance and energy.
And next year, 2025 it will be the 100th iteration of the Dorne Cup event.
There could even be a Macarena band.
By which time the Scots may have had a resurgence?
Race 7 Photos Open Men, and Masters Men 35-59 8km
Race 1 Photos Open Women, Masters Women 50+ and Masters Men 60+ 6km
