Runners will enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Barwon River in Geelong while raising money for a community group and cancer support.
The Geelong Half Marathon will return on Sunday, April 6, with entry fees supporting Barwon Health’s University Hospital Geelong, especially the Andrew Love Cancer Centre.
Committee member Jeanette Morton said the event was also Geelong Cross Country Club’s annual fundraiser, including a five-kilometre run and 21.1-kilometre half marathon along the Barwon River.
“It is one of the few running events now that is just organised by volunteers…and everyone says it feels like it’s a community activity,” she said.
“There’s not one road participants have to cross, which is pretty amazing for a half marathon that the whole event is off-road… and it’s not a hilly course. It’s just got those little bumps along the way.
“Last year we donated $20,000 to the Cancer Centre and then $5,000 to a music program that’s for children that are in the hospital. It’s also the major fundraiser for the club.”
The Geelong Half Marathon will start at 7.30am and feature participants running along the Barwon River from Belmont to Breakwater, then to Fyansford, and back to Belmont.
The five-kilometre run will begin at 8am and cover the first two kilometres of the half marathon course while travelling upstream beside the Barwon River before turning back.
Prizes will be awarded during the event for the fastest male and female runners, and across age groups, and everyone who finishes the event’s courses will receive a medal and refreshments.
A bonus of $200 will be awarded if a course record is broken with the current course records held by Abere Kassw (male) at 64 minutes 33 seconds and Ellie Pashley (female) at 73 minutes and four seconds.
Jena Carr
