Last Saturday was a truly memorable day for our young competitors. I was very impressed with the courage and perseverance shown as the course was tough - very tough.

This year, the number of schools and competitors was far greater than that of 2023. This year saw 311 teams (most from high school) compete in the 18km event.  The course was also longer than the expected 18km. My watch clocked just over 20km as I forgot to start it until we were 2km into the event.

I was relieved that the rain held off for the event. This made the track much safer.  There was no surface water on the course but the greasy downhill slopes were a worry at times.

This event took us six months to prepare for.  Training started in early Term 1 and we trained as a squad every fortnight or so, then trained at Park Run on the other weeks.  Training was not just for students - I needed every metre travelled to prepare as well.  

Our teams

Team results

Crusaders 1:  11th place of 311 teams

Crusaders 2:  15th

Crusaders 3:  98th

Crusaders 4:  99th

In appreciation

Thank you to:

• Our young runners for training hard all season, the representing our school yesterday with pride and distinction. Well done to each of you.
• All of the mums and dads who brought their children to early morning training sessions and the off-week park run events. This was just what we needed to build our fitness levels for the event. You also waited patiently while we took part. It was certainly a long day for you.
• All our coaches who supported the training across the semester. I am truly grateful for your support and commitment.
• Our race teachers, Cindy, Laura and Connor. You were amazing and led your teams safely through the arduous and very busy course.

Gallery