Melbourne’s most anticipated running festival, Run Melbourne, is back with five new event ambassadors, and something for friends, families and fitness fanatics. The Run Melbourne Friendship Dash will kick off the ultimate running race weekend on Saturday 27 July, with the iconic Run Melbourne taking place the following day (Sunday 28 July). Run Melbourne will once again fill the streets with more than 20,000 participants expected to hit the pavement across four events: the 3K Friendship Dash (a free event suitable for families and friends – including the furry ones!), the Half-Marathon, the 10K run and the 5K run.
Joining participants on race day will be five inspiring Melburnians who will help raise funds and awareness for their chosen charities, and encourage runners and walkers of all capabilities to get together and set new goals.
The ambassadors were revealed at an intimate launch event held at The Run Club, Richmond, last night where guests experienced one-on-one shoe fittings led by the experts at Sole Motive.
The 2019 Run Melbourne ambassadors include:
• Much-loved TV presenter and former Bachelorette, Georgia Love and partner Lee Elliott – Having lost Georgia’s mum
to pancreatic cancer in 2016 and witnessed the effects of this terrible disease first-hand, Georgia and Lee are passionate about supporting the Pancare Foundation and finding an early detection method. Georgia and Lee will be running the 10K.
• Born entertainer known for his role as ‘Finn Kelly’ on Neighbours, Rob Mills – An ambassador for the Australian
Children’s Music Foundation, Rob believes music is vital in helping shape healthy young minds, inspiring creativity
and imagination, and nurturing self esteem and confidence. Rob will be running the 10K.
• Stand Up comedian, actor, and winner of ‘Most popular new talent at the 2018 logies’, Dilruk Jayasinha – Dilruk will
be raising funds and awareness for ‘Shake it up Australia’, aimed at finding a cure and better treatments for Parkinson’s disease. Dilruk’s dad has Parkinsons so this is a cause close to his heart. Dilruk will be running the Half-Marathon.
• Special Needs Teacher and model, Brit Davis – Brit will be supporting Berry St which is an organisation that helps
children, young people and families impacted by abuse, violence and neglect. Brit will be running the 10K.
“This year we’re celebrating an incredible milestone – 12 years of Run Melbourne. Over the years the event has grown into a movement that has changed the culture of running through the streets of Melbourne, because we chose to believe in the idea of a Healthy Body Healthy Mind. With cheer zones, more training support and fundraising resources, this year’s event will be a race day experience participants will never forget and there truly is something for everyone,” said Lisa Holmes, CEO of event organiser, Sole Motive. “We’re so excited to have such an amazing group of ambassadors on board this year to help spread the word and change lives in the process. We’re truly touched by the support – what a special way to embark on this year’s journey,” Holmes continued.
Over the past 11 years, participants have raised more than $16.5 million for over 400 charities and this year’s target is $2
million. Participants can raise funds and support charities close to their hearts via the fundraising platform, Everyday Hero. Whether participants aim to beat a personal best, run for the first time, find a way to stay active this winter or plan to raise as much money as possible, the event is a great way to discover one of the most liveable cities in the world on foot.
To register or for information on the event, visit runmelbourne.com.au.
DATE: Saturday 27 July – Sunday 28 July
LOCATION: Federation Square, Melbourne
Corner Swanston St & Flinders St
Melbourne, VIC 3000
COST: Entry prices vary
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