Running for those most in need

BALLARAT Foundation’s Run for a Cause is returning this spring, with joggers and walkers set to step out along a new route.

The annual fun run is planned for Sunday 19 November, with course-lengths designed to suit people of varying fitness levels and ages, and an event village based in Lucas’ shopping precinct.

Registrations open today for the fundraising event which will be held to benefit people experiencing hardship throughout the city via the Ballarat Christmas Appeal.

Participants can complete 12-kilometre, six-kilometre, or kids’ dash events, with courses moving down Sturt Steet, through the Arch of Victory, and throughout Lucas’ green spaces.

Run for a Cause ambassador Julia Zass is taking on the challenge of the 12 kilometres.

“I’m really excited to be an ambassador this year, because it’s one of my favourite runs to do in Ballarat,” she said.

“This year, raising money for the Christmas Appeal is so important for the Ballarat community because there’s over 5000 families doing it tough, and it’s not fair that that’s the way it is.

“That’s why it’s so important we raise this money so every family gets to have a magical Christmas.

“If we can get as many people joining up as possible, even if you’re walking, it will be a really nice community vibe, showing support for the Christmas Appeal.”

Funds raised for the appeal will be distributed to local emergency relief agencies, The Salvation Army, Uniting, St Vincent de Paul, and Anglicare.

Ballarat Foundation CEO Andrew Eales said the fun run fosters community spirit and promotes healthy, active living, all while giving back to those most in need.

“There’s no more iconic location in Ballarat than the Arch of Victory and we are very excited about providing an opportunity to experience our new course in this year’s Run for a Cause,” he said.

“Participants get to experience the Avenue of Honour, but importantly they will run or walk in the knowledge that all the funds raised from this event will go back to community members who are in dire need of support through the Ballarat Christmas Appeal.”

Early registration is encouraged, and participants will go into the draw to win two tickets to a Celebration of Giving Lunch with Cathy Freeman on Thursday 26 October. Visit the Ballarat Foundation website for more.