Junior BEXI shines at Canberra

It was indeed a family-affair at the recent Australian Running Festival on 11/12 April. Dad Shawn running the marathon; twin-sister Kristine running the half-marathon; and mum Suzanne & son Austin (6yrs) running the 5km. An awesome event to do as a family. Young Austin had the time of his life – proving that you’re never to young to follow in your parents’ footsteps. We’re so proud of our Junior BEXI superstar.

Here’s how Mum Suzanne captured the moment…

Austin chose to run the 5km to participate in Canberra alongside his dad … and also to get a well earned running medal!

Austin and I trained for a couple of months leading up to the event, gradually increasing our distance.  He complained a bit, but he didn’t give up…and he got better and better each run.

With race day upon us, our goal was to run as much of the race as possible and to keep positive.  My target was to cross the finish line under 45 mins. Austin was very excited and took off from the start.  He ran a very consistent first km in 6.45 – not a bad pace.

We walked up the hill to Parliament House and then sprinted down the hill, approaching the last km of the race.  A few tears came at this point, but with the promise of a Rainbow Paddle Pop at the finish line, Austin found his second wind and ran home strongly.  He sprinted the final straight to the finish line and was thrilled to collect his medal!

Shawn and I are both so proud of Austin.  Our Junior BEXI is already chasing that elusive PB – next stop is the 4km Mothers Day Classic in May.

Suzanne Elliott
Mum to Junior BEXI | BEXI Half-Marathoner, April 2015