Former Olympian Sally Pearson targets 10km run in Bridge to Brisbane

Olympian Sally Pearson is hoping to set a personal athletic first later this year.

Sally Pearson celebrates her gold medal win in the women's 100m hurdles at the London Olympics in 2012. Picture: AAP Image/Dean Lewins

Olympian Sally Pearson is hoping to set a personal athletic first on Sunday September 8.

When she competes in this year’s The Sunday Mail Transurban Bridge to Brisbane it will be the first time ever that the champion hurdler completes a 10km event.

Pearson, who is recovering from a heel injury, says her goal is just to make the distance.

Sally Pearson has outlined a goal of running the 10km course in the Bridge to Brisbane. Picture: Jerad Williams

“I’ve never run 10k in my life and that’s my end goal,” Pearson said.

“I hurt my heel six months ago and I haven’t been able to get 100 per cent better - I’ve only just started running again in the last few weeks and just got myself back up to 5km again.

“We’ll see if I’ll be able to do it on the day.”

Pearson said she was honoured to be asked to take part in this year’s event, with the 7NEWS Gold Coast sports presenter also named as an event ambassador.

“It always looks like a fantastic vibe out there and everyone gets involved and I think it’s a really nice family day out.

“It’s a well-known event and people really get behind it.”

Pearson will be taking part in this year’s event, alongside fellow Bridge to Brisbane ambassador and 7NEWS sports presenter Alissa Smith.

Bridge to Brisbane event ambassadors Sally Pearson and Alissa Smith. Photo: Steve Pohlner

After reporting on the event in previous years, Ms Smith said she is looking forward to making her debut with a 10km outing.

“It’s an absolute privilege to be an ambassador for the Bridge to Brisbane - I cannot wait,” Ms Smith said.

“I’m excited for a new challenge and it’s great to be running for a brilliant cause as well.

“Last year, the race raised more than $1.1m for over 300 charities in Queensland, so it’s nice to be a part of something that gives back to the community.”

Alissa Smith is a sports reporter for 7NEWS.

Ms Smith added that it will be a challenge to keep up with her Olympian colleague.

“She (Ms Pearson) is brilliant at what she does, I’m excited but also nervous to race against her,” Ms Smith said.

“I know it’s a fun run, but at the same time, she’s one of the greatest Olympians ever.

“She is a two-time world champion and Olympic gold medallist as well, the pressure is on.”

Early bird pricing for this year’s event ends on June 30, so get in quick.

For more information and to register, visit bridgetobrisbane.com.au.