A mind-blowing 45,000 people put on their joggers today to take part in the spectacular Bridge to Brisbane fun run and walk.
For some, it was about racing from the foot of the Gateway Bridge to the finish line at the Ekka showgrounds at breakneck speed and recording a personal best time. For most, it was a chance to join family and mates on a beautiful Sunday morning and spend an hour or two catching up on fitness and friendship. All had a reason for getting up in darkness and joining thousands upon thousands for the 5km and 10km events. For some, the event was of momentous significance and reminds our Queensland-wide community of its importance. Tracy Dryden fulfilled a four-year promise to her young son as he lay in hospital that, if he got healthy again, so would she. Today Tracy, 37, ran in Hunter’s honour, having lost more than 34kg in preparation for the event and raised thousands of dollars for this year’s beneficiary, the Heart Foundation. Virginia Whittle, 49, was unable to walk nine months ago but today participated in the 5km event on crutches. Her mission was to raise awareness, and funds, for the Mater Private Hospital’s rehabilitation unit. Twelve African refugee boys, far from their homeland, joined in the fun run to help raise money to send three clubmates to a national football tournament in Perth in October.
Just three of the numerous inspirational stories associated with the Bridge to Brisbane every year. Tales of courage, of incredible fundraising efforts for charity, blisters, sore feet . . and pride at crossing the finishing line, however long it may have taken.