Classic run returns for cancer research

AFTER a three-decade hiatus, this weekend’s Begonia Classic fun run will get Ballarat back up and moving.

Generating funds for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, participating joggers and walkers can challenge themselves to a half-marathon, 16-kilometre run, or six-kilometre lap of Lake Wendouree.

The two longer courses will travel to Ballarat East via Mair Street and Scott Parade, head west to Alfredton via Victoria Street, the Bridge Mall and Sturt Street, and then back to Lake Wendouree via Lake Gardens.

FECRI’s Sarah Stapleton said the last time the fundraiser was held in the early-1990s, it attracted about 800 runners.

“This year is a chance for us to build the Ballarat Begonia Classic back up,” she said.

“It’s an active and social event the community can get involved with together, and we invite them to take the challenge.

“It’s not a race, but there are many reasons for people to take on this challenge, whether it’s for cancer research, someone in their life who has experienced cancer, or for health and fitness.”

The Athlete’s Foot is a major sponsor, and director Paul Tudorovic said the event is a perfect chance for Ballarat residents, businesses and organisations to support ground-breaking research happening in their town.

“Our business is locally owned, and I’m born and bred in Ballarat. The Begonia Classic is all about our community, and we’re pumped to see it back up and running again,” he said.

The sports shoe shop has its own Tuesday evening running club which will be represented in the fun run by a team, and Susan Gray is part of that active group.

“I’m running the six-kilometre event. It’s all about participation and having fun,” she said.

“We’d love to see everyone getting active and doing it, and I encourage community members to join our team.”

The Begonia Classic kicks off at 9am on Sunday, 20 March from View Point, Lake Wendouree. Register at fecri.org.au.