UQ's famous Great Court Race is set to provide a unique display of past and present during the University's Centenary year.
Competitor from the very first Great Court Race, Richard Bonner, could potentially be watching on as his two sons fight it out in the 2010 final, which takes place on Wednesday, May 12.
Now in its 26th year, the 636-metre lap of the Great Court is based on the well-known Cambridge University race depicted in the film Chariots of Fire.
The race was first run in the presence of the Duke and Duchess of Kent to commemorate UQ's 75th anniversary.
Mr Bonner, a former medical student at UQ, said he remembered his Great Court Race experience vividly.
“We all felt like we were actually in the movie (Chariots of Fire),” Mr Bonner said.
“The five of us in the race used to compete against each other regularly.
“We were all either 400 or 800 metre runners, so it was really interesting to see who would win when we met in the middle.”
Despite being run down in the later stages of the race by 800 metre runner Stephen Shirley, Mr Bonner said the Great Court Race was an experience he would never forget.
Mr Bonner said it was great to see his sons, Brady (Medicine) and Chris (Science), following in his footsteps.
“The boys are both at St John’s College, which is also where I lived as a student,” Mr Bonner said.
“I’m very excited to see them compete and see how the event has evolved over the years.”
Aside from the traditional Great Court Race, the event also includes a 70 metre sprint race and an inter-college relay.
Finals will be held at UQ’s Great Court on Wednesday, May 12, between 1:00 and 2:00pm. All are welcome to attend.
Media: Simon Byrne at UQ Sport (07 3346 7518, simonb@uqs.com.au)
