Red runners raise $340k for hospital
12KM RUN 6KM RUN
GLORIOUS spring weather welcomed a sea of red into Eastern Gardens yesterday for the ninth annual Run Geelong event.
This year’s edition of the popular charity fun-run attracted an estimated 10,400 runners, joggers and walkers who made their way around the 12km and 6km course offerings.
Introduced to the crowd as Geelong’s unofficial mayor, former Geelong Cats player Cameron Ling was one of the many familiar faces sweating it out for a good cause.
“It’s a fantastic event and I love the fact that so many Geelong people around the region get out and do something healthy for a really great cause,” he said.
“I just had a photo with a kid who did the 12km race. I feel a bit guilty for only doing the 6km now.”
The money raised from the event will go towards Barwon Health’s paediatric rehabilitation service, an invaluable local asset for sick kids and their families from around the region.
A spokesman for Run Geelong estimated that the event had raised more than $340,000, and a final figure will be confirmed by organisers today.
Gold medallist and Paralympic legend Richard Colman has participated in Run Geelong events so many times he can’t come up with an exact figure.
“What a great day we’ve had, perfect weather to come out and support such a worthy cause,” he said.
“Run Geelong always has such an amazing community atmosphere. It’s great to see so many people come out, have a bit of fun and raise a bit of money.”
Reality TV star and former Australian Idol winner Casey Donovan headlined the afterrace festivities, entertaining the crowd with a music set of Australian favourites.
“Maybe I’ll be back to run next year,” she told the crowd.
Event ambassador and Geelong Cats captain Joel Selwood flew into town early yesterday after representing Australia in the international rules clash in Perth on Saturday night.
He and partner Brit Davis presented the medals to those who placed in the 6km and 12km events.
“Thanks to everyone who has come out for this huge cause. We’ve raised a lot of money again,” Selwood said.
“How fun is it to come out on a day like this in Geelong.”
Since 2009, Run Geelong events have provided more than $3.07 million in donations to the Geelong hospital.