Dick Lucas training with family.

When Gold Coaster Dick Lucas lines up for this 20^th 5km Fun Run at this year’s Gold Coast Marathon he will literally have an entourage of family alongside him in the race to share the glory.

A very sprightly 79-year-old, Dick started his long and illustrious relationship with the Gold Coast Marathon when the shortest race on offer was 10km, which he completed three times.

An avid beach walker Dick transitioned from the 10km to the 7.5km race which later became the 5km Fun Run and he’s clocked up 19 races so far finishing in the top 10 in his age group for the last five years.

A bout of COVID stopped him from racing last year but he’s back with a vengeance in 2023 with an impending and impressive place in the Gold Coast Marathon 20-year club a just reward for his dedication.

And proud grandchildren, Taylor, Jack, Mytch, Sharna and great grandchildren, Walter and Alfie will take to the start line beside their grandfather making it an extra special occasion for the whole family.

Mr Lucas said he had been doing quite a bit of training running a 5km circuit around the block about four times a week.

“I love the event, the atmosphere and the people out there enjoying it.

“It’s in the blood and it keeps you fit,” he said.

Mr Lucas admitted that when the gun fires they won’t be running all together as a family suggesting  it was a definitely a race and his grandchildren could reach the finish line before him – in  time to cheer him into the history books and the exclusive 5km Fun Run 20-year Club.