Trio of Past Champions Returning to Burnie

October 7, 2025

Three past winners of the Strait Link Burnie 10 – Leanne Pompeani, Gen Gregson and Sinead Diver, – will headline a star-studded women’s elite field this year.

Three past winners of the Strait Link Burnie 10 – Leanne Pompeani, Gen Gregson and Sinead Diver, – will headline a star-studded women’s elite field at the 2025 Strait Link Burnie 10 on Sunday 26 October, when the event doubles as the Australian 10km Road Running Championships for the first time in its 41-year history.

Defending champion and course record holder Leanne Pompeani is back to defend her title after a standout past 12 months. The Canberran won the Australian Marathon Title recently at the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS, with a ripping lifetime best and coveted top 10 in an Abbott World Marathon Major.

“Sydney’s result was a bit of a surprise… but I’m excited to see how that form translates into the Burnie 10,” Pompeani said.

Pompeani reset the Burnie record books in 2024, clocking 31:40 to take 2seconds off Kylie Risks 25 year old record.

“Burnie holds such a special place for me — breaking the record here last year was unforgettable. Coming back to defend my title will be a huge challenge, but I can’t wait to line up again.”

Four-time Olympian and 2019 Burnie champion Gen Gregson (née LaCaze) will also return to the North-West Coast, eager to once again experience the energy of the event.

The Queenslander returns after giving birth to her second child in July and is enjoying the daily improvements in her training.

“So excited to be coming to Burnie this year after a few years away,” Gregson said.

“It’s always been such a highlight of my race schedule when I’ve been in shape but also a great event to throw myself into when trying to find my fitness postpartum. It’s a fast course but creates such a fun atmosphere for racing that no matter what shape I’m in, I’m always glad I raced!”

Australian marathon record holder and 2023 race winner Sinead Diver also returns to the streets of Burnie, as she returns to form. While Hobart’s Ruby Smee will spearhead the Tasmanian attack, after her victory at this year’s Launceston 10 and Gold Coast 10km.

Race Director Richard Welsh said having three former champions on the start line underscores the event’s national significance.

“To have Sinead, Leanne and Gen back in Burnie is a credit to the rich history of the race. It’s a race that many of the greats talk about having won in their prime,” Welsh said.

“They’re three of Australia’s most respected and decorated distance runners, and with the Australian title on the line, we’re set for one of the most exciting women’s races in Burnie 10 history.”

Alongside the elite fields, more than 3000 participants will take part across the Strait Link Burnie 10, Elphinstone 5K, and Liv Eat Kids Dash, reinforcing Burnie’s reputation as Australia’s premier community road race.

The elite women’s race will start at 10:00am on Wilson Street, Burnie, with live coverage and results available via www.burnie10.com.au.

Race day timetable on Sunday 26 October;

10:00am: Strait Link Burnie 10
10:20am: Elphinstone Group 5km
11:40am: Liv Eat Kids 800m Dash

Elite women’s field for the 2025 Strait Link Burnie 10;

Women

Leanne Pompeani