V
PUMP
The Samford Progress Association’s free community newspaper printed continuously since 1977.
The ILLAGE
@TheVillagePumpSamford
“Your Community Newspaper, owned by the Samford Community and produced for the benefit of the Samford Community.” 06 SEPTEMBER 2024
P: 0477 663 696 E: editor@villagepump.org.au NEXT DEADLINE THURSDAY 12/09/2024
GOING THE DISTANCE Camp Mountain local Archie Russell has set the pace for what determination can achieve, lacing up his sneakers to complete his first half-marathon at the age of ten, competing in River Run 100. The year 5 Samford Valley Steiner School student crossed the finish line with a blistering time of 1:52:57 at a 5:21
average pace. He was the sole competitor in the under 14 category and placed 95th out of the 300 adults who took part in the event which courses from Maritime Green, Northshore along the river to New Farm Park and back again. Archie is taking strides in his father’s footsteps, with dad Brent a familiar face at Triathlon, Ironman and Ultrarunning events for the past 15 years. Brent’s motivation to undertake endurance events was a positive role model for his two boys. This paid off when Archie asked to join his dad for a run six months ago. “We did a 5km loop together and I was blown away by his ability to complete it without stopping and at quite a good pace as well. That day he declared to me that he would like to run a half marathon,” Brent said. The pair started with modest 4km and 6km training runs, but Archie’s grit quickly became evident when he willingly extended his training runs up to 16kms. Brent observed that running increased Archie’s overall sense of resilience in a very short space of time. Archie’s parents ensured the challenge of a half-marathon came from Archie himself, reminding him that he was loved unconditionally irrespective of whether he went ahead with the race. Archie steadfastly remained keen to see if he could complete
the challenge he set for himself. Brent ran by Archie’s side during the River Run half-marathon, not only ensuring a safe run for Archie but also encouraging him along the way, alongside a supportive event crew. “The support of the spectators, fellow races and race officials made it something truly special. It was the words of encouragement and cheers from everyone out on the course that got Archie to the finish line,” Brent said. At the end of the race, Archie hugged his mum Tammy and said, “I did it Mummy! I knew I could do it”. His first post-race request was a well-earned bag of lollies; a sweet reward for a phenomenal achievement. Tanya Hall