How proud are you of your kids?

If you answered 110% proud, congratulations. Give yourself a pat on the back.

On Sunday just gone, let me tell you I was so proud of my son for something he did, not only for himself, but for many thousands of people.

Last Sunday my son and I ran the half marathon with the annual BMA Mackay Marina Run, and of course 628 others with the same direction in mind. To finish and do it with a smile.

Rewind a few months ago, I had a chat with my son after he expressed an interest in doing some road running for fitness. When I heard him talk about it, I was excited. Not just because I do it here and there, I was excited that he found something other than work and computer games to give his attention to.

I suggested to him back in March that we do the 5k Twilight Run at the Bluewater Quay. He jumped at the chance and when we did it, he was hooked and agreed then and there to do the half marathon this year.

Over the past few months, we have both been training to get ready for the event, and when the day arrived we were both pumped to do it, alongside the many hundreds of others in our event. We weren’t there to win the race, we were there to do our best, help each other and raise money for leukaemia research. Something close to our family with Mum losing her fight against this horrible disease 3 years ago.

My son wanted to be better than 2:30 in his first ever big race, and when we crossed the line, the time of 2:18 was broadcast to the crowds at the harbour by Kaley from Star FM. You couldn’t wipe the smiles off our faces, and the joy of watching your son achieve something so large, was the highlight of my weekend. Way better than the Origin on Wednesday night that’s for sure.

I will say that near the end of the race, hearing my son say I’m doing it for Grandma, made me well up and smile even more, if that was possible.

To everyone behind the scenes of this classic running event, thank you. From volunteer marshals, water station legends, (Col Meng you my friend are a legend even after Gary covered you in water) musical stars, and participants, you are all stars in my eyes.

I love participating in this event, and I love even more knowing that the money raised will save many lives. Who knows, it may be someone you know. Perhaps you.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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