Running for a purpose at this year's Afterglow Night Run

ONE Surf Coast event is joining the fight against sexual and family violence as it returns for its 10th year in December.

The Black Diamond Afterglow Night Run has announced its participation in Respect Victoria’s 16 Days of Activism.

Afterglow, well known for its colourful roots, rainbows and unicorns, will shine a light on the issue that has one in three women experience violence perpetrated by men.

Race director Chirs Ord said Afterglow has been and always will be a fun, light-hearted running event.

“We also feel that the family-friendly atmosphere of Afterglow is an ideal, easy-approach forum in which we can spark conversations around respect and equality and contribute to the actions to address the driver of violence against women.

“The more we discuss the issue, especially with our sons and daughters, the more collective understanding and hopefully behavioural change can be encouraged longer term.”

Participants in the run are encouraged to wear their brightest clothing as they make their way along the Surf Coast. Photo: AARON COLLINS

Race co-director Peri Payne said they’re keen to shine a light on the issue in a safe space.

“Women in particular all too often encounter threats of intimidation and violence while out running.

“I know too well the anxieties and fears of running trails through parks and along quiet streets – especially at night – not knowing what is around the next corner.

The event will also raise money for Geelong’s Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre by encouraging its 700 plus participants to get their fingernails painted when picking up their running bib.

The event will raise awareness on sexual and family violence while raising funds for the Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre Photo: SAM COSTIN

Organisers will donate $5 from each participant who dons the bright nail polish to the centre.

Participants are encouraged to set up their own MyCause fundraising page linked to the event, using it to raise further awareness and money through their personal networks.

The trail running event offer a 21km run along the Surf Coast Walk, a ‘half glow’ distance of 13km and two ‘mini-glow’ runs of 5km.

All distances feature participants dressed in their bright running fashion as they make their way along the trailsand across the finish line.

The Afterglow Night Run will take place on December 7.

For more information and to enter the event, head to afterglowtrailrun.com