Slip on your running shoes for this year’s Run For The Hills charity run on Father’s Day on Sunday, September 7. Organisers are hoping to beat the magical number of 1000 runners for the Castle Hills Rotary event which raised $55,00 for five local charities last year.
Chair of the Run For The Hills, Nik Fox, is excited about the event, one of the top community fundraising events in the Hills and Hawkesbury. She said it is truly a family day out, with extra markets and a huge community vibe at Bella Vista Farm. Former Hills Bulls junior and NRL star Sandor Earl is the event ambassador, doubling up as MC. The well-known Gladiator, and fitness guru will help shine a spotlight on health, fitness, and men’s mental wellbeing.
“This year, we’re aiming higher than ever with a target of 1,000 runners after welcoming 636 participants in 2024,” Ms Fox said. “We’re encouraging every entrant to raise $100 for their chosen cause. So far, we’ve raised over $24,000, with more coming in each day.
Ms Fox, the co-founder of Punch Love Women’s Fitness in Windsor, said there are new additions to the popular event, including an optional colour run.
Ms Fox joined Castle Hill Rotary about three years ago, and works with youth ( mental health & education) and women needing crisis care help. Since The Hills has the third highest domestic violence statistics in Sydney, they are working closely with Transitional Community Housing and Hills community Aid to bring support to the area.
“For the first time, runners can choose exactly where their charity dollar goes, giving participants more ownership and connection to their fundraising,” Ms Fox said.
The event is open to anyone with children and pets too joining the action in the past. Last year’s youngest to complete the course was just three years old.
“Our oldest participant was 82 and continues to inspire us, all finishing the 7.4km intermediate event,” Ms Fox said.
“Last year’s event was a true community effort, powered by 53 Rotary volunteers and 636 runners, walkers, and wheelers of all ages and abilities. Together, participants clocked up an incredible 3,373km around Bella Vista Farm, raising $55,000.”
The event attracts families pushing children in prams, wheelchair entrants, imaginative fancy dress runners, local police officers, politicians and even dogs.
Details: https://www.runforthehills.com.au/
