Sport
7 May, 2025
Bible praying for a victory
FORMER Moreton Bay College student, Emma Bible, currently studies at The University of Queensland (UQ), and is eyeing off a three-peat in the Great Court Race.
The Great Court Race is a special track event that UQ holds annually, and this year is entering its 40th anniversary.
First, there are trials to narrow the field down to four competitors. The race start is signified by a chime from the clock tower. Then, it’s an all-out 636m sprint through the cloisters.
Emma has been crowned the female winner of the race for the last two years, finishing in 1.44.90s in 2023 and 1.42.28s last year. Now, she is aiming to win for a third consecutive year on the race’s 40th anniversary.
“It would mean so much to join the list of names of previous winners for the third time,” she said.
“The race is steeped in so much history, and it would be amazing to take the win on its 40th anniversary.
“There have been a few incredible female athletes who have won more than twice, most notably, Daina Surka and Sandra Dawson winning the event five times.”
Emma has been competitively running since she was 13-years-old, and started her journey at On Track Running with head coach Ben Norton. She added that what she loves about running is it gives her an outlet to relieve her stress.
“I enjoy setting goals on the track which I think has helped my personal development outside of running as well,” Emma said.
“Although it’s an individual and often very competitive sport, I really enjoy the team aspect of it.”
Emma said she loves the unique concept of the Great Court Race, and finds the sharp corners the most difficult part of the race.
Only UQ students can participate in the race, and Emma has two years left of her Bachelor of Primary Education. Daina Surka and Sandra Dawson hold the current female record, winning the race five times each.
