Marathon tradition crosses the finish line

Hamurana Rd neighbours Christine Findon and Terri Munro supporting marathon runners at the 'Champagne Corner.'

For 17 years Christine and Robin Findon and their neighbours and friends have cheered on runners at a roadside champagne breakfast with the Chariots of Fire theme tune on repeat, blaring from speakers.

Christened "Champagne Corner" by many locals, the enthusiastic group, sometimes up to 20-strong, decked out as clowns, 1920s flappers or boater hat-wearing gents.

The group have given advice and support at the 14km mark at Hamurana, from the first runner to the final walker.

Tomorrow's race will be the last hurrah, Christine says.

"We've been doing it for a long time and we feel it is time for someone else to take over."
Christine says the tradition will be missed by many runners and spectators.

"The theme music gives the runners a little lift, they come past huffing and puffing and you can see them get inspired and pick up."

Some even take a sip of bubbles to get that extra lift, she says.
"Quite a few re-enact the beach scene from the movie where the runners stride out."

The frontrunners also enjoy the spectacle.
"For a while they would notice us, but as the years have gone by they will give a little smile, or a flick of the hand.

"It's rather nice to be acknowledged like that.

"One old chap came up last year and put his hands on my husband's shoulders and said he really looked forward to the group and we really make his day.

"We are always there from the first runner to the last walker - that's what it is about, really."

It is not all about sipping champers though, she says.

Each year the group have raised money for a charity, asking anyone who arrives for the breakfast to donate $10.

"Anybody is welcome to join us, just bring along a breakfast and champagne and have fun," Christine says.