The 12-year-old competed in the Tasmanian Running Festival with the help of Just Like Jack volunteers Zane and Callum.  

Cas Stewart, Caitlyn’s mum, said her daughter was pushed in a special stroller by the two volunteers. 

“Caitlyn loved it. She loved to go fast,” Mrs Stewart said. 

Crossing the finish line in less than 40 minutes, Caitlyn was happy to be the first of the seven in her group to complete the race.

“She said ‘I came first’,” Mrs Stewart said. 

Sunday’s event was the second Launceston Ten Caitlyn had competed in. “It means quite a lot,” Mrs Stewart said. 

“Part of the ethos of the Just Like Jack crew is that they’re there to provide equipment and support to enable children and people with disabilities to get out and about and enjoy life, and do some of the things that you and I take for granted,” she said. 

Caitlyn was born 15-weeks premature, weighing a mere 350 grams. 

Caitlyn is legally blind, has heart and lung problems, malnutrition problems and intellectual disabilities.

Without the group, Ms Stewart said it would be impossible for Caitlyn to participate as the special strollers cost thousands of dollars. 

“When Just Like Jack gets some money, that is basically what they buy, they buy transport,” she said. 

Seven Just Like Jack “captains” competed with the help of 14 volunteer “engines” who pushed the strollers to the finish line. Donations can be made to Just Like Jack at www.justlikejack.com.au.