Powercor Stawell Gift Champions Return for Easter Showdown

Date: 24th January 2025

When Chloe Mannix-Power and Jack Lacey crossed the finish line in the torrential downpour at Central Park last year, they etched their names into the storied history of the Powercor Stawell Gift. Now, the reigning champions are preparing to return to the famed event this Easter to defend their titles, bringing with them memories of last year’s unforgettable races and the determination to shine again.

 

Chloe Mannix-Power: Rising to the Challenge

For Chloe Mannix-Power, the lead-up to the 2024 Gift final was all about preparation and staying grounded. “I tried not to get ahead of myself or stress out,” Chloe recalls. “I told myself it was like any other race and planned everything – outfits, spikes, nutrition, and recovery. I made sure everything was ticked off before we travelled.”

Chloe’s meticulous planning paid off as she lined up for the final, which unfolded amidst one of the wettest days in the event’s 143-year history. Despite the rain and delays, Chloe stayed composed under the runners’ tent, supported by her partner, Mathew Currie, and training partner, Liv Matzer. “I personally didn’t want the event to be cancelled,” she says. “I knew how hard I had worked to get to that moment.”

When the starting gun finally fired, Chloe’s determination carried her to victory – an achievement she’s still coming to terms with. “I don’t know if I’ll ever fully understand what it means to be a Stawell Gift winner, but it’s a pretty special feeling, especially because I won from the back.”

As she prepares to return to Stawell, Chloe’s busy season has included track and beach races, along with Tasmanian Gifts in Hobart, Devonport, and Burnie. “That was a really fun week. I am now entering into the business end of the season, preparing for Australian Beach Titles, Track Nationals and then the Stawell Gift.

“Stawell will always be a special place to me,” she says. “It’s one of the biggest achievements of my career, and I’m excited to see what mark I’ll run off this year. I’m sure I’ll be in red, haha!”

With her prizemoney still safely tucked away for an overseas trip with her partner, Chloe remains focused on doing what she loves: racing hard and embracing every opportunity.

Jack Lacey: Chasing a Dream, Embracing the Moment

For Jack Lacey, last year’s Powercor Stawell Gift victory was the culmination of years of hard work and a lifelong dream. “Growing up, I watched my brother Max compete and succeed at Stawell,” Jack shares. “That inspired me from a young age. For a long time, winning the Stawell Gift felt like a pipe dream. Then, as I developed as an athlete, I realized maybe that dream could come true.”

Jack’s path to the final was smooth, but the rain-soaked delays on race day tested his nerves. “After the semi-finals, the weather hit, and we didn’t know if the final would even run,” he recalls. With the help of teammate Jerome Lugo and coach Nick Fiedler, Jack stayed calm and ready, eventually seizing his moment to claim victory.

“Winning the Stawell Gift means everything to me,” Jack says. “To now be a small part of the rich Stawell history is something I’ll always be thankful for.”

Returning as the defending champion this Easter, Jack feels both excitement and gratitude. “It’ll be surreal to come back as last year’s winner. I think I’ll have a newfound appreciation for this great event,” he says.

After a strong season that’s seen him competing in Gifts across Victoria and trying his hand at amateur events, Jack is ready for the challenge. “Using my experience from last year, you never know what can happen in those tense semi-finals,” he adds.

Some of Jack’s prizemoney is already earmarked for a well-earned trip to Japan with his partner after this year’s Powercor Stawell Gift. But for now, his focus is firmly on the competition. “Pro running is such a unique sport,” he says. “The community and support are incredible, and my squad, Team Fiedler, has been instrumental in my success. I wouldn’t be where I am without them and my amazing coach, Nick Fiedler.”

Chloe shares similar sentiments about her squad and six-time Stawell Gift winning coach Brett Robinson. For her, the camaraderie within Viking Athletics and the guidance of “Robbo” have been instrumental. “Having a great relationship with your coach is one of the most important parts of success,” she says.

As both Chloe and Jack prepare to defend their titles this Easter, the anticipation is building for what promises to be another thrilling Powercor Stawell Gift. Whether it’s rain or shine, Stawell is ready to welcome its champions back to Central Park for another chapter in its legendary history.

 

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