About 100 people formed a guard of honour and cheered on 88-year-old Wallett as she crossed the finish line on Saturday.

Wallett has been involved with Bowral Parkrun from the first day it started, and it has been a big part of her life and running training throughout the year. 

The runner said achieving a world record was the most memorable moment of her time with Bowral Parkrun. “[100 runs] was a long time coming and it was a wonderful weekend,” she said.

Wallett has been running for about 50 years, and has also been involved with other running events including the Sydney Running Festival.

The accomplished Parkrun member usually wins her age group, and many of the younger age groups as well.

Wallett continued her usual training schedule in the lead-up to her 100th run, with training sessions four times a week.

She also had the encouragement of her fellow Bowral Parkrun peers.

“They have become my immediate family and my dearest friends,” she said.

To celebrate the milestone, the runners and walkers shared a cake and about 100 cupcakes made by a member of the group.

The group also had breakfast at Briars Country Lodge, where the club regularly meets. Wallett said the support of her fellow runners and walkers meant a lot to her.

“It has left me overwhelmed, gobsmacked and stunned,” she said.

Bowral parkrun director Barry Smith said the club was proud of Norma’s efforts.

“It was very emotional, Parkrun has been family to Norma,” Smith said.

“She said it was the best day of her life.”

Smith said Wallett was an inspiration for her fellow Parkrun runners and walkers.

“It’s very hard to complain about sore knees or a sore back in your 30s or 40s,” he said.

“If we have an 88-year-old doing it, then you have no excuse.”

Email Barry Smith at bazlynda@yahoo.com or call 0411 484 321 for more information about Bowral Parkrun.