River Run reaches record size

A HUGE turnout at River Run Geelong has organisers giddy for the future of the community fun run.

River Run director and PB Events owner Justin Higgins said a sold-out running pack of 1,150 runners at the weekend event was a sign of changing times for local fun runs, with a mix of running experience observed among the participants.

“It was a great, fun atmosphere, there were lots of first timers as well which was great, the Barwon River is always a great backdrop for this event.

“From what I’ve heard, everyone says it was a great event to be a part of.”

Pat Hagan was first across the finish line in the male 5km run/walk event, completing the course in 15 minutes and 47 seconds, with Brydee Hodgson claiming first in the women’s category, finishing the course in 21 minutes and five seconds.

Harry Cashin performed strongly in the 10km run, beating out runner-up Lachie Doak to finish his run in 32 minutes and 18 seconds.

Deborah Bruce produced the best female time in the 10km field by 23 seconds, finishing the run in 36 minutes and 43 seconds.

“Overall, people are putting their health as a priority, they’re getting out and getting active, even when the economic climate is tough for a lot of people, that’s my biggest takeaway from this year’s event,” Mr Higgins said.

“I was speaking to a couple of organisers today and running events are bucking the trend, they’re proving really popular at the moment, and everyone is sort of in their running groups.

“Running is not a bad financial option compared to spending $1,000 on a gym membership.”

Head to PB Events’ Facebook page for all photos from the event.