The last few months have certainly been exciting, challenging and rewarding. Being the first Ambassador of the CTC Rocky River Run for 2016 has certainly put another chapter in my running journey. Watching the dedication of many people to make this event happen was truly amazing. Their dedication as a non-for profit organization, raising money for a good cause. A cause that many forget to recognize yet has silently destroyed more families than we may realize. This event raised funds to address mental health issues and the prevention of youth suicide. Everyone involved in making this event happen held this close to their hearts. It is people like them that were willing to sacrifice their own time and long hours to ensure this event happened and all the funds went to such an important cause and awareness.

As the past weeks went by I watch many of these amazing people do the impossible to give us a fun enjoyable day. As the entries grew so did the excitement of watching people getting out and becoming actively involved. Runners started to appear around the streets of Rockhampton, training for an event within their own township. This event gave people an opportunity to experience that feeling of being at a start and crossing a finishing line for many different reasons.

It was in 2011 that I had been given this opportunity at this very event for the first time and became a life changing experience. When 5k’s seemed like a long way has now turned into a journey of endless challenges. The smiles and encouragement amongst the runners and spectators was energizing. Bringing me back to where my journey began.

This event could not be possible without countless peoples generosity. Our Sponsors, Volunteers and of course participants. Local businesses graciously gave funds to support the cause and volunteers gave their time to help in numerous areas on the day. Being a part of this and watching it unfold up until the start line was an unforgettable experience. The weather was perfect for running and made an enjoyable morning outing for the entire family.

Thank you to Rockhampton Road Runners for assisting in providing pace runners in each event. They volunteered their time to help runners achieve their goals and encouraged many others out on the course. I know there are runners who were so grateful to have you all out there.

CTC took on a challenge that will now grow into something bigger and better for the years to come. The winners of the day are the ones we ran for, our youths in our community who need our help. They are why we all stood at that start line and crossed that finishing line.

Love My Running 🙂