Serious athletes, costumed contenders and kids set to race the Maroubra Fun Run this Sunday
WHEN it comes to The Juniors Maroubra Fun Run, ‘fun’ is the operative word. From serious athletes to costumed contenders and kids, hundreds are expected to turn out for the 22nd annual event this Sunday.
Southern Courier
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WHEN it comes to The Juniors Maroubra Fun Run, ‘fun’ is the operative word.
Now in its 22nd year, the event is one of the biggest in the local community, attracting hundreds of participants to Arthur Byrne Reserve, from serious athletes to costumed enthusiasts and children.
Participants can run, walk or wheel their way around the course on October 22, taking on either or both the 4km and 8km events starting and beginning at South Maroubra SLSC.
The first race was held in 1996, the brainchild of the Maroubra and Districts Chamber of Commerce, and organised by chamber member Richard Walsh and brother Phillip of Walsh’s Village Pharmacy.
The brothers are running enthusiasts from way back, growing up as members of the Randwick Botany Harriers, and having completed 40 marathons between them.
Richard said there were 190 participants in that first event — but its popularity has grown as the years have advanced.
“We usually have aroud 1400 entrants, which I’m obviously very happy about, it’s just so great to see people out there enjoying themselves,” Mr Walsh said.
“Over the years we’ve had some prominent runners including Sydney Marathon winners in the event, and we like to encourage as many people as possible to come along.
“The community spirit is palpable ... that’s what Phillip and I really love, that’s what kicks us on and makes us keen to go and do it the next year.
“The focus is on participation and fun, as well as athletic ability, so it caters for the really keen fun runners and athletes, as well as those who just want to get out and go in a nice community event.”
There’s also extra motivation for crossing the finish line, with South Maroubra Surf Life Saving Club hosting Oktoberfest after the run.
The SLSC will be cooking up its annual bratwurst BBQ, and the traditional theme continuing with German biere, musica and dancers, as well as international fare at dozens of food and market stalls.
For animal lovers, there will be camel and pony rides, as well as lots of amusement rides and jumping castles for the kids.
“A big part of the day is fundraising for the surf club to help with all the great work they do on the beach for us,” Mr Walsh said.
“We also fundraise for Maroubra Lions Club and Maroubra Rotary Club, they along with the Chamber have been involved in every event some way or another.
“Without our sponsors we couldn’t hold the event at all ... we appreciate all the great support that the local businesses, Randwick City Council and the Chamber give to this event.”
Wheelers start at 9:30am. All runners start together at 9:35am. Walkers start at 9:40am.
Entry to Oktoberfest is free.
For online entries open until 6pm on Saturday October 21, click here. Teams must register online.
You can also enter at Walsh’s Village Pharmacy, or at the venue on the morning of the race.