A BIG crowd turned out on 5 – 6 September for the second running of the Mornington Running Festival, incorporating the Mornington Health & Lifestyle Expo.
Over 1300 participated in the run and over 5000 people visited the Health and Lifestyle Expo over the weekend.
In it’s first year last year, the event saw just over 400 competitors participate. In just 12 months, the event has grown three-fold, with runners participating over four race distances.
“It was a huge effort, and fantastic to see a boutique local event receiving so much support from the local community as well as the running, triathlon and fitness communities”, said spokesperson Scott Hollow.
“There was over $10000 raised for our charity partner Beyondblue.”
The 21.1 kilometre half marathon was won by Serena Wooldridge in the female division (time 1:32:05) and Shane Grund in the male division (time 1:17:38).
The ten kilometre fun run/walk was won by Carly Burmeister in the female division (time 40:36) and Paul Marchant in the male division (time 34:46).
The five kilometre fun run/walk was won by Susie Wilson in the female division (time 19:17) and Troy Page in the male division (time 17:28).
Local real estate agent Nicholas Lynch Real Estate were the winners in the team challenge with 97 points.
“Events such as these cannot go ahead without the fantastic support of volunteers, friends and families providing their time, support and cheers,” said Mr Hollow.
“We would like to thank all the individual volunteers, but a special thanks goes from the 2nd Mornington Scout Group that provided around 60 volunteers.
“Also big thanks to our partners GME, Nicholas Lynch Real Estate, Raw Travel, The Private Sea, Freshwater Catering.”
Entries are now open for the 4 – 5 September 2016 for third running of Mornington Running Festival and Health & Lifestyle Expo.
The weekend festival will include a one kilometre kids dash, five and ten kilometre fun run/walk and the popular half marathon 21.1km distance.
The Health and Lifestyle Expo will also back bigger and better including exhibitors, seminars, workshops and games for the whole family.
“Join us next year and help us raise more money for our charity partner beyondblue,” said Mr Hollow.
www.morningtonrunningfestival.com
First published in the Mornington News – 15 September 2015
