‘Biting’: Sydney run club attacked in horror ordeal
What began as a regular morning run for Sydney's popular Coogee Run Club turned into chaos when a man allegedly launched a violent attack on members.
A morning run club turned violent when a man allegedly attacked members of a popular Sydney run group during a coastal session on Thursday morning.
The man – who was in his 20s and dressed in running gear – allegedly bit and punched around 12 members of the Coogee Run Club while they were near Clovelly Beach, according to The Australian.
Tara Meakins, the organiser of the run club, issued a statement to the social media page’s nearly 14,000 followers yesterday after the incident.
“Unfortunately there was a serious altercation between an individual, who experienced a mental health episode, and members of the run club,” she said.
“I firstly want to acknowledge the members of the Coogee Run Club, as well as several members of the public, who stepped up to protect our community today.
“Your bravery and your willingness to act to keep our members safe is very much appreciated.
“From the bottom of my heart, I am so grateful for each and every one of you.”
Police confirmed the incident to news.com.au, saying they were called to the scene at about 6.50am following reports of an assault.
“Officers attached to Eastern Beaches Police Area Command were told a man had allegedly damaged a vehicle before attacking a group of runners,” a spokesperson said.
After the man was arrested, he was taken to Prince of Wales Hospital for assessment.
Paramedics treated two males for minor injuries.
Ms Meakins said “no serious injuries” were sustained and thanked the NSW Police for their timely assistance.
“Now is the time to lean into our amazing community,” she said in her statement.
“No matter how close or involved you were to the incident this morning, it is normal for us all to feel shaken from this experience.
“There are so many great resources available to those who need it today or any day.
The Coogee Run Club remains committed to its values of kindness, inclusivity, grit, friendship, and fun. This is a time to lean into our community and know that we are always there for each other.”
Inquiries are ongoing.
Coogee Run Club was founded in May 2022 by Ms Meakins and her friend Hannah Gandevia.
It hosts four runs per week with different distances each day.
Originally published as ‘Biting’: Sydney run club attacked in horror ordeal
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