Fresh backing for fun run

EDUCATION and fitness will collide for this year’s Run for a Cause.

Federation University has been announced naming rights sponsor for the 2019 charity fun run coordinated by The Ballarat Foundation, aiming to raise $50,000.

Fed Uni Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Helen Bartlett said the partnership is a “great fit.

“We really pride ourselves on our place in the community and enhancing the communities in which we operate right across Victoria. The Ballarat Foundation focusses on exactly that,” she said. “Our university is very committed to physical activity.

“We have many keen runners here. We’re hoping we can make our own mark as a university on the day, and be competitive against the local schools, businesses and community groups that are taking part in the course.”

Professor Bartlett was proud to share in an event that delivers thousands of dollars to local beneficiaries, and champions health and wellbeing.

“The targeted charities this year are devoted to childhood education, including Ballarat Reads, Eureka Mums, Uniting Ballarat, Ballarat Community Health, Ballarat Toy Library, and Playgroup Victoria,” she said.

The Australian Early Development Census discovered nearly one in five children in the Ballarat region begin school developmentally vulnerable.

Streaming this year’s fundraising towards early childhood learning, Professor Bartlett said more Ballarat children will be better prepared to enter the classroom.

“It really sets up children for lifelong learning,” she said.

“Step up to the challenge on the 17^th of November, walk, run or just be present to encourage and cheer everybody along for this year’s Run for a Cause.”

Four events are planned, catering to all ages and fitness levels.

The North Ballarat Sports Club is sponsoring a half marathon, the 10km event is supported by McGrath Real Estate, Pet Stock hopes dogs will join their families for a 5km run and family walk, and the Kids 1km Dash is sponsored by the Golden Nugget Bakery.

Head to run4ac.org for further information.