The Mallacoota Fun Run organiser says the success of this year’s event is a massive boost for the community, and will help ensure the future of the local pre-school
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The previous record mark was well and truly shattered, with 330 competitors entering Sunday’s event at Betka Beach; an increase of 120 on the inaugural event in 2013.
But most pleasing for Event Coordinator Ros Macvean was the number of runners completing the half-marathon and 10km races.
“We had 75 running the half-marathon and the 10km event, so we’re really pleased to have such big numbers in those long distances,” Ms Macvean said.
“It’s a fundraising event for our local community kinder, the Mallacoota Pre-School, which really struggles to stay open given the funding shortfall from the state government.
“This is our one big event for the year, so it’s really significant and having a lot more people here has really boosted our fundraising capacity.
“We won’t know exactly how much we’ve raised for a while, but I can say that we will have exceeded any expectations because we had so many people turn up on the day, and everyone was so generous.”
While running was the name of the game, a carnival atmosphere ensured that everyone was entertained throughout the day.
A food stall, massages for long distance runners and a sandcastle building competition for the kids were among the main attractions.
But perhaps the highlight was the reception each competitor received as they reached the finish line.
“One thing that has also been really good is the music,” Ms Macvean said.
“We drum everyone home, so that whether you’re doing a walk or a run, you really get the vibe of a great event by being drummed across the finish line by our local kids and musicians.
“They rotate throughout the day, so a number of different people have got up there and had a go.”