The first official Run Wagga Wagga, on March 7, brought regional sport back to the city and helped connect Defence personnel with the local community.

Participants were able to tackle a full and half marathon of 10km, 5km or 2km.

Army Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Brendan Johnson, of the Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (ASEME), was part of a small group of ADF runners involved in the event. 

Although he only began running competitively through his local parkrun two years ago, he completed a half marathon in Melbourne last year. 

More than 500 competitors travelled from around Australia to the regional town to compete in the race. 

“It was a major local event for Wagga with strong community support, and a great opportunity to get out there again and see ADF runners involved,” WO1 Johnson said.

Currently training for the Ballarat and Melbourne full marathons, WO1 Johnson incorporated Run Wagga Wagga into his preparation. 

Training three to four times a week, he often steps off at 5.30am before beginning the day supporting more than 400 trainees at ASEME.

'The last quarter is where you’re fighting the war – it’s mind over matter to finish what you started.'

WO1 Johnson said the race conditions proved challenging, with heat intensifying in the second half of the course. 

He said the experience highlighted the mental demands of long‑distance running.

“The last quarter is where you’re fighting the war – it’s mind over matter to finish what you started,” he said.

WO1 Johnson said the event provided Defence with a valuable opportunity to connect with the local community, and he encouraged wider participation next year.

“With more promotion next year, you could easily see units putting in teams. It builds morale and gets people out doing something positive,” he said.

RAAF Warrant Officer Stewart Hassall was also among the ADF runners, placing first in the 50-59 age category. 

Like WO1 Johnson, he incorporated the event into his overall marathon preparation and said it created a positive environment for Defence personnel to connect across ranks and services.

WOFF Hassall said speaking with other runners before and after the race helped build a sense of shared purpose, with members comparing training approaches and encouraging each other’s progress. 

“You don’t have to run long distances or fast times. Just get outside, get some fresh air and move,” he said. 

If you are interested in joining the ADF Running and Athletics Association, email adraa.mailbox@defence.gov.au for further information.