Even 22-year race veteran Nadia Mellor thinks the hill is a massive challenge, saying many thoughts go through her head when it comes into view.

“You really have to concentrate going up the hill,” she said.

“Different people have different techniques for making their way to the top, and it can often get quite congested.

“My husband Michael tends to just charge up, whereas I like to have a bit more of a rhythm.

“I do a lot of cross-country skiing, and I find going up the steeper portions that a similar rhythm to when I’m at the snow is very helpful.

“Getting to the top of the hill can feel like you’re just trying to survive, but once you get there you’re only racing yourself, it’s a great feeling.”

The Mellors have lived in Albury for 25 years after moving from Tasmania, and are keen runners.

After running the race 24 times, Michael, 64, finally became an Age Master, completing the 11.3-kilometre run in a time faster than his age no fewer than 10 times.

Nadia, 58, was an Age Buster for the first time last year and said running was the best form of stress management.

“The physical benefits of exercise are well-documented, but the benefits regular exercise holds for your mental health are phenomenal,” she said.

“You get outside, sweat out all your adrenaline and feel great afterwards.

“It’s time to get out and think, I always come back feeling refreshed and in a good frame of mind.”

Her advice for nervous first-timers was simple.

“Take it at your own pace, you’re not doing it for anyone else, you’re doing it for yourself,” she said.

“Enjoy it — look after yourself, but also make sure you test yourself.”