This summer we introduced the Odd Mile League, an informal running league designed to cater for all abilities and open to everyone. The aim was to keep members running together on Friday evenings after the 5km series had finished, while creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere rather than another highly competitive event.

The league proved to be a great success, with excellent participation at every run. We also included a virtual option, allowing members who were away or unavailable on the evening to still complete the distance and contribute to the league.

Rather than asking for a weekly commitment, the league was held on a fortnightly basis, with runs taking place on 5th June, 19th June, 3rd July and 17th July.

The four races covered 3 miles, 5 miles, 7 miles and 9 miles. These deliberately unusual distances (with the exception of the familiar 5-mile/8km distance) were chosen to discourage personal best attempts and instead encourage a more social, relaxed approach to racing. An unconventional scoring system added to the fun and ensured every runner could play an important role.

The first run was a quick 3 miler that started and finished at Craughwell community hall doing the Crinnage loop.  A big thank you to Tom and Susanne Breen for pots of tea (in real mugs) and home baked treats after the run.

The highlight for many was the 7-mile “Chaos” Run, where runners were split into two groups and set off in opposite directions. With no one knowing whether they were leading or trailing until the final results were calculated, it created plenty of excitement and allowed slower runners to score valuable points for their teams.

For the 5-mile event, we incorporated the annual Bullaun 8km, a race many of our members run each year. It was fantastic to see over 25 club members taking part, making it one of our strongest club turnouts for the event.

The final 9-mile race was held over a shorter loop completed twice, keeping everyone close together and creating a great atmosphere throughout the evening. Every participant who completed the distance earned a point for their team, reinforcing the league’s emphasis on participation and teamwork. We had some beers for refreshments after at the senior track as an end to the league.

It was also great to welcome a number of guest runners from Maree AC and local runners from Craughwell, whose involvement added to the friendly spirit of the league.

Overall, the inaugural Odd Mile League achieved exactly what it set out to do—providing a fun, inclusive and social series of summer runs that brought runners of all abilities together. Judging by the enthusiasm and participation throughout, it is certainly something worth building on in future summers and finally just a big thanks to all whom helped and ran.