Sport
23 February, 2023
Running festival returns
RUNNERS of all ages from Camperdown’s Lakes and Craters group headed to Port Fairy last weekend.
RUNNERS of all ages from Camperdown’s Lakes and Craters group headed to Port Fairy last weekend.
Basked in sunshine and spurred on by a large crowd of spectators, the group took part in various events as part of the Port Fairy Marathon and Community Running Festival on Sunday.
More than 1400 competitors took to the course to compete in the marathon, half marathon, 10 kilometre and 3.5 kilometre events.
Race director Nick Grimmer said the economic benefit to the region was significant, with accommodation providers reporting a spike in bookings for the weekend.
“We had participants representing every state and territory in Australia, apart from the NT, along with international entrants from New Zealand, Hong Kong, Canada, UK and Ireland,” Grimmer said.
“This year we had an increase in marathon entries, which we attributed to our AIMS certification, which meant runners could come to Port Fairy to qualify for all of the world’s iconic marathons.
“We’re currently sitting 16th in the list of Australia’s biggest marathons and that number is still climbing.”
Grimmer said the event continued to attract runners of all abilities.
“We had a visually impaired runner return for a second year, which was exciting.
“Runners told us they participate for fun, fitness, with a friend or family member, ticking off their bucket list, having a goal and challenging themselves.”
The event was coordinated by the Parents and Friends committee as a major fundraiser for the Port Fairy Consolidated School.
“The school has a strong health, wellbeing and sustainability focus which is reflected in all aspects of the event,” Grimmer said.
“Our strong values of community, sustainability, inclusivity and participation are already trademarks of our event.
“No event of this scale is possible without the support of volunteers and we have more than 140 who helped with all aspects of the event.”
