Jeremy Roff – Impressions
“Your time will come, if you wait for it.”
Upon my recent journey to Falls Creek I was privileged enough to have the opportunity to meet a bunch of Queensland’s finest distance specimens. I was one of many Australian representatives asked by dynamic duo Jayden Russ and Jackson Elliot to share my apparent wisdom and knowledge of what I have learnt over the years. Although last minute, I was over the moon to be a part of something so special. Admittedly I had no idea what it would entail but I was ready for the challenge.
With a fresh cup of tea in hand Jayden, Jackson and previous night’s quiz winner Brodie Modini tested my general knowledge with ten quick fire questions. Lucky for me I managed a pass for the first time since high school. The next instalment of the night had all the young bucks come in and introduce themselves one by one before politely taking a seat. This time the boys had to answer 10 questions about me, which even had me guessing at times.
It’s strange how one day you are the young boy listening in, then on the flip side you become the figure standing in front of them. I don’t deal with this type of attention well as it’s few and far between. In all honesty I actually feel uncomfortable, especially when it has been so long since I achieved anything of note.
The winner of the quiz (Shaun Lee) scored 3 out of 10. Funnily enough I was grateful any of them knew who I actually was considering the last few years I have had with injuries.
Post quiz was a brief Q & A with the boys about my experiences over the years both domestically and internationally. I enjoy this part the most as I feel more relaxed talking in a group situation rather than standing in front of everybody. The situation was made much easier having the experienced veterans of Jayden and Jackson conducting the boys around their snug little lodge.
The boys were on their best behavior whilst enjoying the fact I took the piss out of Max Daddo for wearing socks and thongs like your standard pommie geezer. “When in Falls” I guess….that right Max?
As much as the boys enjoyed the night it has to be said the privilege was all mine as I really get a kick out of giving advice to the future of Australian distance running. Whether it’s good or bad advice is up to them to decide.
I hope my insight left as good an impression as these enthusiastic bunch left on me. The biggest lesson I have learnt is despite age, everyone develops at different rates and just like the song Amsterdam by the Imagine Dragons states “Your time will come, if you wait for it”.
