An enduring sporting event, which is celebrating its 39th year, taking on the 7.5- kilometre course has become something of a tradition.

This is particularly true for Jim Hallahan, who is one of a band of dedicated volunteers who help make the jog the success story that it is.

The affable salesman from Clancy Motors, Jim has been a member of the Edgell Jog committee for about 30 years, and his affinity with the event is showing no signs of waning.

Jim is also known locally as a keen walker who sticks to the same daily early morning routine with a bunch of mates including Paul Favero, Robert Niven, Ian Pellow, Maurice McNeil and Bob Cassidy.

“In fact it was Bob who got me to come onto the jog committee,” he said yesterday. “It’s become something of a passion of mine. I guess it’s my little way of giving something back to the community here.

“Each year any money raised from the event is donated to local charities, and we couldn’t do this without the great support of local businesses who are so generous. 

“From the committee’s viewpoint, though, we are concerned about continuing sponsorship from Simplot as they are rapidly downsizing in Bathurst. Hopefully the relationship we have with the company will be enduring, despite all the changes they are making.”

Jim, 73, is married to Carol and has worked at Clancy Motors for the past 58 years.

He moved to Bathurst from Nyngan as a 14-year-old with his family.

“My brother runs GH Sheet Metal on the Vale Road and one sister lives in Bathurst and the other one in Lithgow.

“I’ve stayed in Bathurst for so long because I just love the place and I love my work here at Clancy’s. I guess that’s why I have been with the business for so long and made many enduring friends over the years.

“I’ve lost count of the number of repeat customers that I have. Generations of the same family have bought cars off me.” 

As far as this year’s Edgell Jog is concerned, Jim says he and Carol will be taking part in the walking section.

“I used to run the event, but I am past that now, although I did go in the City to Surf earlier this month,” he said. “From memory I only think I’ve missed competing in the jog on three occasions. Once because I had a leg in plaster and the other times because I was overseas.”

Jim said there’s still two weeks to go before the big day, and while it may be a bit too late to start training for a 

serious crack at recording a quick time, he wants to remind everyone there is a walking section sponsored by Cityfit which is very popular.

“It’s ideal for mums and dads wanting to push a stroller, people wanting to take their dog along for the journey or even those who want to come along in fancy dress.

“In fact, I think there’s a category for just about everyone including Simplot employees, those who are wheelchair bound, parent and child under 12 years, husband and wife teams, out of town family of four, Bathurst businesses, schools and father and child.”

Jim said there more reasons than ever to join this year’s jog.

“All runners and walkers completing the course in 90 minutes or less are eligible for age category and major draw prizes,” he said. “And don’t forget the major draw prize is a holiday at the Sheraton Fiji Resort for two people, complete with five nights accommodation, sponsored by Panorama Cruise and Travel and the Bathurst Edgell Jog committee.”