Magnificent marathon effort by NVCS teacher

The community cheered on Namoi Valley Christian School teacher Geraldine Cronje recently as she completed a marathon distance: 42.2 kilometres, running from her home in Wee Waa to Narrabri.

“It’s my first marathon in Australia since we immigrated here one and a half years ago – very exciting,” she said.

Mia Cronje, Erica Petersen, Louis du Toit, Geraldine Cronje and Montana Carrett. Mrs Cronje thanked all her support cyclists and crew, including Louis du Toit, a fellow teacher at NVCS, who immigrated to Wee Waa from Namibia.

“I’m just a South African teacher running in my new home country.

“My husband (Stefan) will be driving behind me all the way.”

Montana Carrett cycling and supporting Geraldine Cronje on her impressive 42.2km run.

Mrs Cronje was also supported by NVCS students and families, some cycling beside her as they all cheered her on, every step of the way, until she triumphantly crossed the finish line at The Crossing Theatre.

“I had a very comfortable run all the way and just enjoyed my very first Australian marathon,” she said.

Montana Carrett, Mia Cronje, Isabelle Cronje, Geraldine Cronje, Stefan Cronje and Jocelyn Smith. Photos kindly provided.

“The support was incredible. From the start, all the way to the finish.

“I’m so grateful to every single person who came out to support me. My family, cyclists, friends, school kids – thank you. You are all amazing.”

Support cyclists Mia Cronje and Erica Petersen.

Mrs Cronje and her family have embraced Wee Waa life since moving to the district, getting involved in local events and activities.

Support cyclist Erica Petersen.

At the town’s Australia Day service this year, Mrs Cronje told The Courier/Wee Waa News she was pleased to attend the friendly Wee Waa event with her two daughters Mia and Isabelle, and the family was loving Aussie life so far since moving to the district for work at the Namoi Valley Christian School.