In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Sydney's Greenway Parkrun became a sea of yellow and black on Saturday morning, as nearly 500 runners gathered to pay tribute to Professor Richard Scolyer. The event, held at Richard Murdern Reserve in Haberfield, was a testament to the impact of this beloved figure on the running community and beyond.
Professor Scolyer, a former Australian of the Year recipient, passed away in June at the age of 59 after a three-year battle with brain cancer. His legacy, however, continues to inspire and motivate.
The parkrun, a weekly 5-kilometre event, held special significance for Professor Scolyer, who had completed an impressive 250 parkruns, both in Australia and internationally. His dedication to the sport and the community was unparalleled, and his passing left a void that the runners were determined to fill.
One of the most touching moments of the day was the speeches at the start line, where participants shared their reflections on Professor Scolyer's life and his impact on the running community. His brother, Mark, a fellow runner, described him as a 'daggy guy' who would run up to people and talk, creating a sense of camaraderie and friendship.
"I've probably run here with Rich 20 times," Mark said. "We'd push each other and sometimes I couldn't keep up and sometimes he was having bad days and some days he couldn't run. We all shed a tear, we'll all keep running here; it's a special place to remember Rich."
Emily Hamilton, the acting group run director, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Professor Scolyer's role in embodying the spirit of the Greenway parkrun community. "He has been such an important figure for Australia and for cancer research," she said. "But here in our community, he was one of those people that just really encouraged people to give it a crack and have a go."
The event also served as a reminder of Professor Scolyer's remarkable journey. Despite his cancer diagnosis, he continued to run and even set a goal of completing 250 parkruns. He achieved this milestone in June 2025, just months before his passing, demonstrating his unwavering determination and positive attitude.
Professor Scolyer's impact extended far beyond the running community. As a renowned pathologist and melanoma researcher, he made significant contributions to cancer research, particularly in brain cancer immunotherapy. His role as 'patient zero' for an experimental treatment was groundbreaking, and his knowledge and insights have shaped the future of cancer research.
In 2024, Professor Scolyer was co-recipient of the Australian of the Year award alongside Professor Georgina Long, for their groundbreaking melanoma research and treatment. This recognition highlighted his immense contributions to science and his dedication to improving the lives of others.
The tribute at Greenway Parkrun was a powerful reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on a community and the world. It was a day of reflection, celebration, and inspiration, as the runners continued to run in memory of Professor Scolyer, carrying his spirit and legacy forward.
