The Unlikely Heroes of the Sydney Marathon: Qantas' Cozy Conquest

As the sun rose over Sydney's North Sydney Oval, a peculiar sight greeted the residents of this bustling suburb. In the midst of the Sydney Marathon's starting point, a mountainous pile of soft, cotton-rich pyjamas lay scattered across the grass. These were no ordinary PJs – they were Qantas' business class pyjamas, carefully designed for the comfort of international business travelers. For many marathon runners, these PJs have become a staple of their pre-race routine. The secret to their enduring popularity lies in their versatility. Runners adorn themselves in these cozy garments as an outer layer over their running kit, providing a snug and warm start to their 42km journey. As they warm up, the PJs are shed, revealing their sleek, high-tech running gear underneath. This clever trick allows runners to stay warm and toasty during the chilly early spring morning, while also shedding excess weight and bulk. But how did these Qantas pyjamas end up in the midst of the marathon, surrounded by determined runners and enthusiastic spectators? The answer lies in the Sydney Marathon's unique appeal. As a major sporting event, it attracts a diverse range of participants, from seasoned athletes to casual joggers. The event's popularity is matched only by its unpredictable weather conditions. On this particular morning, a strong wind and chilly temperatures made it essential for runners to stay warm. As the runners took off, they discarded their trusty Qantas pyjamas along the route, leaving behind a trail of soft, cotton-rich goodness. But what happened to these abandoned PJs? Fortunately, the Salvation Army was on hand to collect the discarded garments and distribute them to Sydney's rough sleepers.