More than 500 runners from all walks of life took part in the 2015 Toohey Trail Run, hosted by Griffith Sport.
Competitors and participants trekked 5km and 10km routes from Griffith’s Nathan campus through nearby Toohey Forest and back to base.
The feel-good factor was in evidence from an early hour with gym instructors and Kid Zumba on hand to help with warm routines and stretches.
A team of Griffith cheerleaders added to the atmosphere, and there was a pep in every step when the time to run arrived.
Australian sprinter, Griffith alumnus and event ambassador, Craig Burns, played the meet and greet role to perfection, and presented the awards at the end of the day.
Patrick Hagan was first across the finishing line in the 5km run with a time of 16:26, with Amy Riethmuller taking the honours in the women’s run with a time 23:23.
Patrick Nispel took out the 10km run in a time of 34:52, while Clare Geraghty was the first woman home in a time of 37:34.
A number of novelty awards were presented on the day, with Kodie Fuller collecting the prize for highest fundraiser for the nominated charity, the Cure Brain Cancer Foundation.
Erica Leota (most Instagram likes), Georgia Herbert (best dressed) and Grace Mullins (best dressed) were other novelty award winners.
For Jos Lamb, a Griffith University staff member who has taken part in Bridge to Brisbane, Gold Coast Airport Marathon and Color Runs, the Nathan event was a standout.
“I can honestly say I have never been to such a fantastic event as the Griffith Sport Toohey Trail Run,” Jos said.
“The track was brilliant, plenty of support staff, plenty of hydration stations and on race’s end, plenty of fruit and a mix of drinks.
“The start of the race with the cheerleaders spelling out ‘Go Griffith’ was a genius marketing strategy.”
First-time trail runner, Maria Blaine, confirmed herself an addict by the end of the fun. “Thank you so much to every volunteer at each bend or bottom of a hill. That was so encouraging,” she said.
Scott Wilson brought along his little boy for the run. “I’m especially wrapped that you allowed the inclusion of prams in the event. It allowed me to include my son in something the family enjoys heaps.
“Many thanks to all the other runners who were ready to high five him when he had his hand sticking out of the pram and for the encouragement of volunteers and event organisers.
“My son had a blast singing all the way through the event and joining in with the stage dancers.”