As sunlight began to bathe the Block in warmth, the crisp cool air was met with growing optimism for the start of the annual Jamieson Ultra. The event is a challenge of resilience and perseverance with all participants setting their own goals to the question “how far can you run in 6-hours?”. The wet lead-up to the event provided students with an opportunity to learn how to prepare their gear and food to ensure they would be warm and comfortable for the entire 6 hours. Despite potentially facing the worst conditions in three years, 89 students arrived Friday morning (19th August) eager to find an answer to the question.

2022 saw returning runners who were ready to set new PBs with many more first-timers nervously wondering what to expect. The 1.9 km loop track through the block had some tough elevation changes and wet crossings. The most laps recorded this year were by Caleb Hood (25) and Grace Rogers (24), which saw both these students run further than a marathon. The results were truly impressive; 89 runners was an event record. Half of these students managed to run more than 30 km with 5 recording more than 40. The incredible distancing being covered by all runners was of constant discussion throughout the day. By lunchtime the field had ran to Sydney, by 3.00pm the total distance covered was just under 2500 km the same as a causal run to Canberra and back… via Melbourne for the footy.

We would like to thank Emma Kraft from Tempo Run Coach for working with and preparing the students in the lead up to the event, and for her endless on course support during the day. Her knowledge and guidance was invaluable.

It was fantastic to see parents and family members at the event and running support laps with their children. Kurt Hahn (founder Outward Bound and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award) famously coined the phrase “Plus Est En Vous”… there is more in you than you think. I think he’s right and I believe so do 89 other people.