Athletic Training Protocols
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We would like to send a massive thank you to all those who came out in force at our Karratha, WA, event.
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2023 Run Sheets
About
The Weight of War
The sun was beating down at a crisp 36˚, I laced up my runners, humid air brushing against my face. As I tightened the weight vest around my torso, memories of my time in the Australian Army from 2009 to 2015, flooded back. Each adjustment, felt like I was reconnecting with a past that had shaped me in ways I could never have imagined.
The vest wasn't just a piece of attire; it was a symbol. It represented the weight of war, the burdens, struggles, and challenges that veterans had faced and continued to face. As I began my run, every step was a homage to the sacrifices made and the resilience shown by those who had served our country.
But it wasn't just the vest. The budgy smugglers I wore were a stark contrast, a powerful symbol of vulnerability. They reminded me that beneath the armour of strength and bravery, there was a human element, susceptible to pain, emotions, and the scars of service. The juxtaposition of the vest and the budgys was a poignant reminder of the balance between strength and vulnerability that defines the human experience.
In 2021, I founded the Weight of War Run. It started as a personal endeavor, a way for me to channel my experiences and give back to the veteran community. But over the past 2 years, it grew into something much bigger. last year in 2022, we had participants from all walks of life, each bringing their own stories, their own weights, and their own vulnerabilities.
The camaraderie was palpable. As I looked around at the starting point, I saw a community of like-minded individuals, each with their reasons for participating but united by a shared purpose. We supported one another, shared stories, and forged bonds that lasted beyond the finish line.
The Weight of War Run was more than just a physical challenge. It was a journey of self-discovery. As I navigated the course, I confronted my own strengths and vulnerabilities, reflecting on what the vest and budgys symbolised and what they meant to me.
Training for the event was a transformative experience. The symbolism of the vest and budgys guided my preparation, pushing me to understand the weight I carried and the vulnerabilities I exposed. I took moments to reflect on the cause I was supporting, thinking about the war within and how I could contribute to raising awareness and fostering understanding.
The Weight of War Run 2023 will be a testament to stories untold, battles fought both externally and internally. Every stride, every challenge, and every moment of vulnerability added to the tapestry of stories, resilience, and hope that the event represented.
As the finish event approaches, I feel a surge of emotions. Pride, gratitude, and hope. I know that this will be just the beginning. The Weight of War Run is more than an event; it is a movement, a call to action, a reminder of the sacrifices made and the resilience shown by countless individuals.
Weight of War Run 2023 - FAQs
1. What is the Weight of War Run 2023? The Weight of War Run 2023 is an event designed to raise funds to sponsor veterans onto the Survive To Thrive Nation program. Participants run 21km in a weight vest and budgy smugglers, symbolising the weight of war and the balance between strength and vulnerability.
2. When and where is the event taking place? The event will be held on 2 December 2023 at 11 am in Brisbane, Queensland, along the river setting off from Felons Brewing Co.
3. Why a weight vest and budgy smugglers? The vest symbolises the burdens, struggles, and challenges faced by those who have served our country. The budgy smugglers represent vulnerability, reminding us of the human element beneath the armour of strength and bravery.
4. Do I have to run the full 21km? No, while the 21km run is symbolic, participants have the option of sclaed distances of 10, 5 and 1 km to walk, ride, or scoot. Any distance is acceptable. The event is inclusive and welcomes all levels of participation.
5. Is there a virtual participation option? Yes! This year, we've introduced a virtual race alongside the in-person event to include participants from all over Australia and the world.
6. How do I register? Participants and spectators can register online for free. The event is completely free, and everyone is welcome.
7. Who are the sponsors for this year's event? Our proud sponsors for the Weight of War Run 2023 are Felons Brewing Co, Budgy Smuggler, Pain 2 Performance, Matter Athletica, Brothers and Books, and Intraface.
8. How can I prepare for the event? As you train, let the symbolism of the vest and budgys guide you. Reflect on the cause you're supporting, connect with fellow participants, and build a network of support and encouragement.
9. What is the significance of the event? The "Weight of War" is a testament to the stories untold, the battles fought both externally and internally. By participating, you contribute to a narrative of awareness, understanding, and compassion.
10. Can I donate even if I don't participate? Absolutely! Donations are welcome and greatly appreciated. They will go towards sponsoring veterans onto the Survive To Thrive Nation program.
11. How can I get involved other than running? You can volunteer, sponsor, or simply come down on the day to support the runners and be part of the community.
12. What was the outcome of previous Weight of War Runs? In 2021, the event started with just six runners. By 2022, we had over 60 runners and more than 200 supporters, raising over $12,905.22
13. How can I spread the word? Share the event on social media, invite friends and family, and encourage your community to get involved. Every mention helps raise awareness!
14. Can I bring my family and friends to support me? Absolutely! The more, the merrier. We encourage everyone to come down, cheer on the participants, and be part of this meaningful event. All we ask is that you register them all, and it's absolutely free.
15. How will I know if I win the raffles? When you purchase your ticket from the Me&U app the contact details that you have entered into the Me&U will be used to contact you if you win
16. How will the WINNERS be chosen? All entries will be entered into a random generating software, where the machine picks the winners at random. From there, you will be contacted via the details that were left. Due to the possibility of inaccurate details left, you will have 48 hours to confirm your winnings. After 48 hours of no contact, there will be a redraw of that prize, and the process of 48 hours to respond will begin again.
17. What if I don't want any prizes from the raffle? You are free to turn down the prize if you do not wish to accept it. The prize will be redrawn, and a new winner picked
Sponsors
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