Family ties run strong

THREE generations of the same family are preparing to pound the pavement for Run Geelong, raising funds for a cause close to their heart.

Grandparents Ian and Sue Jones, their daughter Shanelle Biskup and her children Harley, 13, and Max 9, will all hit the track when the popular fun run returns on November 19.

The family are particularly motived to get involved in the day because it raises funds for children’s services at Geelong hospital.

Born at 26 weeks gestation and weighing just 965g Max spent the first 100 days of his life in hospital, including some time in Geelong.

The Hamlyn Heights youngster continues to have regular visits to the hospital to manage his ongoing health issues.

“We’ve done Run Geelong most years. Sometimes we run, sometimes we walk, sometimes there is not three generations doing it at the same time depending on health and what’s going on in our life but this year we will do it together,” Mrs Jones said. “I love that it supports Geelong and supports kids at the hospital. And it’s a really fun day.”

The 69-year-old Newtown grandmother has been attending the free Run Girl Run Club sessions at Eastern Beach twice a week to prepare.

“I haven’t done any running for a couple of years so that’s when I started with Greta (from GretFit who runs the sessions) and it’s been fabulous,” Mrs Jones said.

There’s an event for people of all abilities with the Cotton On 12km Run, Cotton On Body 6km Run, Cotton On 6km Family Walk and the Cotton On Kids 1km Kids Dash on offer.

This year Run Geelong is fundraising specifically for Barwon Health’s paediatric rehabilitation services.

To register visit runaustralia.com.au/register/ #geelong