Fun run for cancer fight
More than 100 people jogged, sprinted and wheelbarrow-raced around the Manawatu¯ Community Athletic Track at Massey University to raise money for the fight against a killer disease.
Massey students and staff, dressed in their best blue gear, ran laps of the blue track yesterday to raise money for the Prostate Cancer Foundation.
People brought gold coins along and participated in a variety of fun races, including the favourite thee-legged and wheelbarrow races, and timed laps and walks.
Massey Sports and Recreation Centre wellbeing and clubs coordinator Esther Rush said the event was part of Blue September, a fundraising month for the foundation. ‘‘I was wondering what we could do, then I thought: ‘Well, we’ve got a blue athletics track’.’’
As well as supporting a good cause, Rush said the event was also designed to promote physical and mental wellbeing. She wanted it to be easy to take part in, so gave people a two-hour timeframe in which to do their laps.
‘‘It also encourages wellbeing for the staff.’’
Student Sarah Humphrey wanted to show her support to cancer patients by taking part.
‘‘I think it’s a really good cause. It’s just a good way to raise awareness and get involved with a community event.’’
Vet student Peta van Hattum came down with her classmates to do a fun 400-metre walk. She was part of a student wellbeing programme run by the recreation centre and said the run helped contribute to the programme.
‘‘We’re just doing it for a good cause.’’
The event, in which about 150 participated, managed to raise just over $200 for the foundation.