A spectacular morning greeted the CJC volunteer army as they descended on a still and dewy Australian Botanical Gardens early this morning. As the dawn was rising, so too was the anticipation for the Challenge Walk, to a wide blue sky and the largest field of eager registered participants in years.

Even with the bulk of the work completed the day before, there was still plenty to do to ensure a smooth hassle-free and fun experience, and the CJC volunteers proved to be on-point. We loved working with our friends at Campbelltown City Council who organised the day, with the friendly, helpful staff of the Gardens, and with the Timing Guys. And it was great to mingle with the C91.3 crew as well!

Our bib management and late entry teams worked relentlessly and flawlessly to unite walkers with bibs while our baggage protection teams ensured safe haven and return of walker’s valuables. Our help desk helped some desks rethink their careers as drink stations, and was still able to assist walkers with interesting queries.

As the weather began to outdo itself just a tiny bit, drink stations became popular thirst quenchers for keen walkers while they navigated the “Challenging” loop around the undulating gardens. An additional colour station this year delivered even more fun to willing participants as they were doused with an array of bright colours at two separate locations by enthusiastic teams of CJC colour application specialists.

Our field and mobile marshals ensured that all participants completed the course correctly and safely. Our data assistant team provided support to the critical timing systems throughout the event, while our medal applicators were a welcome and satisfying reward for the weary finishers!

At the conclusion of the event, just as the Sun was beginning to sting a little, we attacked the heavy lifting again, removing and packing rows of unwilling steel barriers, cones and bollards, leaving the gardens in a pristine state for the enjoyment of newly arriving visitors, who were experiencing a wave of late onset FOMO realising they just missed a fantastic event. There’s always next year!

Thank YOU Campbelltown Joggers Volunteers!