On a delightfully sunny Sunday morning, on 21 May 2023, over 500 people participated in the QMI CresWalk2023, a fun run event held in Queensland at the Berrinba Wetlands Park in Browns Plains. The event, initiated by Crescents of Brisbane Inc in 2004, was organized this year in association with Queensland Muslims Inc (QMI).
“CresWalk2023 brings together people from different backgrounds and cultures to enjoy a healthy and fun activity, one in which age and fitness levels pose no barriers,” said Creswalk organizing team member, Hafizah Suleman.
The participants walked, jogged, ran, and pushed prams across a 5km circuit that took in some amazing scenery of native flora and fauna and great views from the bridges as they passed over them. The event was open to all ages, ranging from babies in prams to octogenarians.
One participant said of the event: “Creswalk is such a unique experience. I don’t think there is one like this anywhere else in the country where Muslim and non-Muslim families and friends can walk, talk and meet together in a friendly and sometimes competitive event.”
Getting ready for the start of CresWalk2023.
Commenting on the organization of CresWalk, another said: “The Creswalk was amazing, and the organisation was fantastic. I just wanted to say Masha-Allah it was awesome. JazakAllah for always bringing the community together. We really had a blast today. And my girls don’t ever go out and they came along today so that was a bonus.”
Trophies were awarded to the winners in different age categories. The oldest finisher, at 81 years and 6 months, was Suleman Sabdia, who received a warm applause from the crowd. The Imam’s Challenge, a friendly competition among the local imams, was won by Imam Mohammed Zohair Abdul-Rahman, who completed the course in a very creditable time of 24.42. Rashide Deen was first past the post in a blistering time of 18.48 minutes, and brother and sister, Uzair and Nabeeha Rahman took home the prizes in the 11 to 15 age category. Winners in the 75+ male and female groups were Fadlullah Wilmot and Zulikha Jean. Fastest pram pushers were Ahmed Hassan and Aysha Al-Maani.
Muhammad AbdAllah streaking home to the finish line.
The Haji Ebrahimbhai Patel Crescents of Brisbane Special Achievement Award was presented to Kemal Omar, a founding member of CresWalk, in recognition for his activism and contribution to the Muslim community over many decades.
Winners’ Podium.
The success of the event is best summed up in the words of 4-year -old Sabreen: “Dad, I want to attend CresWalk every year.”
At the end of the run everyone was treated to the CresWalk Gourmet Burger, a Julie Hatia creation comprising her secret herbs and spices. There were also loads of physical activities for the young ones, including a jumping castle, ball games and races.
Despite tired bodies and aching feet, many were already looking forward to CresWalk2024, insha’Allah.
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