Darrel Chapman Fun Run to unite community in support of Our Kids

NEARLY 1,000 runners and walkers are expected to take part in the family-friendly NAB Darrel Chapman Fun Run as the community gathers to raise vital funds for local children in need.

The annual event on Woodlark Street in Lismore has been running for 31 years and will be held on Sunday 30 August.

It brings people from across the region, with registrations now open across a range of categories.

All funds raised go directly to Our Kids, which supports children with chronic illness and special needs throughout the region by funding lifesaving medical equipment and services for local hospitals.

The event is delivered through a partnership between NAB, the Lord’s Taverners and Our Kids, continuing a long-standing tradition of community support and philanthropy.

Participants can choose from several events on the day, including the Lord’s Taverners 10km run or walk and the Lismore Masters Games half marathon (21km) for more experienced runners.

There is also the free Our Kids 4km fun run and walk, supported by Terania Consulting.

Virtual participation options are also available, including the 42km Southern Cross University full marathon.

Our Kids fundraising coordinator Rebekka Battista said the event continues to play a vital role in supporting families.

“This is such a special event for Lismore,” she said.

“A huge thank you to all our sponsors and supporters who help make this event possible year after year.”

The fun run honours the legacy of Darrel Chapman, a husband, father, distinguished academic and sporting figure who died of cancer in 1992.

A former Australian Rugby League representative and South Sydney captain, Chapman was also a respected sports administrator and educator.

After attending St John’s College in Woodlawn, he established the Human Movement Science and Sport Management program at Southern Cross University.

His contribution to sport, education and the local community continues to be celebrated through the annual event.

To help participants prepare, organisers have released a free eight-week training program.

It has been developed by Dr Chris Stevens, who is a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Health at Southern Cross University.

Programs are available for beginner, intermediate and advanced fitness levels.

Registration options and race information can be found at darrelchapman.org