To the sound of a starter's gun from a MAG 58 and a roar from the crowd, more than 10,000 entrants ran through the streets of Brisbane for a record-breaking Run Army event.
Australian Defence Force personnel ran shoulder-to-shoulder with first responders and members of the public for the sixth iteration of the event.
Firefighters ran in full kit, emergency service workers carried stretchers, and military working dogs ran alongside their handlers all in the name of charity and a great day out.
Run Army founder and president Major General Jake Ellwood (retd) said Army's largest public-facing event was now spreading to other capital cities.
"In the last six years more than 30,000-plus people have donned the Run Army shirt and it's been an amazing thing to see," Major General Ellwood said.
This year's Run Army Brisbane featured a 10km and 5km run as well as a chief's challenge 15km and a 2.4km junior dash.
'In the last six years more than 30,000-plus people have donned the Run Army shirt and it's been an amazing thing to see'
The event has raised about $1 million for Legacy since 2021.
Run Army national director Squadron Leader Nicola Bigarelli said the event strengthened community connections.
"It's the only running and walking event that directly raises funds for this cause [Legacy] around Australia," Squadron Leader Bigarelli said.
"It brings something different to a running event, knowing it's for a good cause."
Run Army chief operating officer and Legatee, Gabrielle Tochterman, said Legacy's support played a critical role for families following the loss of a loved one.
"Legacy stepped in and wrapped their arms around us when we needed it most," she said.
After Ms Tochterman's husband died in 2018 while in the Army, Legacy helped with regular check-ins and connected her with other families in similar situations.
"They're surrounded by people who have their back, and if something does happen, Legacy will be there," she said.
The event featured strong individual performances across multiple categories, including Brisbane runner Sophie O'Brien, who placed first overall.
"It feels really good. I didn't expect to win," she said. "Last year I did 46 minutes for the 10km, and this year I did 38."
