Fun run unleashes community spirit

Frosty Canberra conditions set the scene for HMAS Harman’s 61st annual Bonshaw Cup.

CAPTION: Australian Defence personnel participate in the HMAS Harman Bonshaw Cup fun run as part of HMAS Harman’s 80th anniversary celebrations. Story by Leading Seaman Tara Morrison. All photos by Petty Officer Jake Badior.

The Bonshaw Cup is a 5km race aimed at bringing the Defence community together in a fun and active way.

Event organiser Leading Seaman Physical Training Instructor Samuel Hall said the event was “a huge success for HMAS Harman and Defence community”.

“The Bonshaw Cup is a fantastic opportunity for our people to build healthy habits such as fitness, teamwork and participation,” he said.

“It’s an open event inviting all to participate which highlights the importance of linking ADF members, Defence public service staff and associated family and friends, which people care about,” Leading Seaman Hall said.

There were more than 200 participants with prizes donated from event sponsors Lululemon, JB-Hi-Fi, Pace Athletic, Nutrition Warehouse, Navy’s Anchorage and Military Bank.

The conditions were challenging, but Sub-Lieutenant Nelson Dunphy was the overall male winner with a time of 18 minutes 50 seconds and Mrs Charly Hall took out the overall female competition in 22 minutes 42 seconds.

CAPTION: Sub Lieutenant Nelson Dunphy takes out the open men’s division in the HMAS Harman Bonshaw Cup fun run.

Although some were avid running enthusiasts, others took the opportunity to spend the morning with friends, family or their furry companions.

This year’s Bonshaw Cup was held as part of HMAS Harman’s 80th anniversary celebrations.

The Harman anniversary week focused on celebrating 80 years of service and engagement with the local community and broader Defence family.

Celebrations included several other community engagement activities such as a working bee at legacy village and a freedom of entry march in the municipality of Queanbeyan, a memorial to commemorate the Women’s Royal Australian Navy Service, a base open day and concluded with a ceremonial sunset and official reception.

CAPTION: The HMAS Harman Bonshaw Cup open women’s division winner Mrs Charly Hall with Leading Seaman Physical Training Instructors Shannon Evans (left) and Sam Hall.

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