The Bendigo Ford Fun Run started with 2,000 excited runners three weeks ago. But instead of a race, it turned into a slow sightseeing tour, and runners got distracted by the city’s attractions.
Graham Tuckerman, a marathoner, stopped to enjoy the art gallery for three days. Soon, other runners did the same. They visited the Golden Dragon Museum, Central Deborah Gold Mine, and Bendigo Pottery.
Race officials tried to get runners back on track but didn’t listen. Runners went to wineries, the Ulumbarra Theatre and even rode the Bendigo Tramways. A local runner, Susan Bailey, wished she had her camera and said she never knew Bendigo had so much to offer.
The winners were finally announced. The first-place finisher’s time was 503 hours, 12 minutes, and 43 seconds.