Thousands of runners cleared for take-off at Western Sydney Airport

In most cases, going for a jog or walk on an airport runway would get you fined or arrested.

On Sunday morning at Western Sydney International Airport, those rules were tossed to the wind for the day. Something was in the air … and it wasn’t planes.

On the ground, about 10,000 runners (including yours truly) were set loose on the freshly laid tarmac at Sydney’s new 24-hour airport. The first few waves of runners disappeared into the fog with music pumping.

The Runway Run/Walk in Luddenham was a once-in-a-lifetime event – few airports have ever hosted such a race.

While up to 10 million passengers a year could be hurtling down the airport’s 3.7 kilometre runway once it officially opens in October, never again will so many be doing so on their own two feet, wearing race bibs, sneakers and fitness watches.

Some runners and walkers pushed for personal bests while others – dressed as bananas, pilots or planes – were simply there for a fun time (although I’m embarrassed to admit I was overtaken by the banana man while pushing for a personal best).

The event organisation left much to be desired: there was nowhere to drop bags, limited parking and the first few shuttle bus drivers drove towards the terminals blind. There were also no spectators allowed, meaning the funny signs and cheers that might usually give runners and walkers a tailwind, were lacking.

But for a first-time event, the day went ahead with limited turbulence.

The course, ranging from a quick trot down the runway to three laps of the tarmac for the half marathon, had a surprising amount of elevation for a location many would assume to be flat – as well as occasional headwinds to run against.

Those looking for a scenic run would have been disappointed (although airports are rarely located on prime real estate). And without any shade, as the sun rose higher, so did the mercury.

But there were aid stations, small crews of medical staff, marshalls and sponsors who cheered on competitors, and the atmosphere remained abuzz with new runners and walkers joining throughout the day.

Most running done at the airport when it opens later this year will be by those rushing to catch their flight.

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