Three generations of runners with the Stawell and Ararat Cross Country Club lined up in the Ryan Family Handicap at Ararat to celebrate a remarkable junction of milestones.
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The indomitable Jack Trounson, 67, was having his 600th run with the club; Anthony Mellors, 44, was presented with his 250th run badge and Simon Gallagher, 24, lined up for his 100th start in 10 years with the club.
There was no fairytale ending - the club mates all finished in the middle of the pack in a fast run five kilometre event, but this race was more about the pride of participation than winning.
Trounson started his club career in 1978 and has been blessed with a body resilient to 90,000 kilometres of hard-slog training, 4251 kilometres of club racing and 27 race wins.
A total of 700 runs is achievable in the next six to seven years but on top of the stalwart's "bucket list" is a first ever attempt at Sydney's famous City to Surf in August.
"I have been fortunate never to have had a serious injury from running," he said.
"I've broken both ankles, but they weren't related to running. One was at school and the other was a work accident.
"I've still got a screw in one ankle which aches a bit from time to time, but not enough to stop me."
With typical resolution he dismissed any suggestion of retirement.
Only this week, however, he informed his long term training mates, Peter Gibson and Darren Bahl, that he would no longer be joining them for their ritual 5.30am sessions on the streets and surrounds of Ararat.
"I can't keep up with them now that early in the morning, but I'll still be out there doing my own thing and I'll stop only when my body tells me to."
