Run Like the Wind for a Worthy Cause

Since its humble beginnings in 1992 as a fun run instigated by former Dee Why Hotel proprietor Mark Bayfield, the race has grown to become the Northern Beaches’ biggest community-focused event, raising $3.5 million for its associated charities over the years.

This year is marked by a few significant firsts for the event, with the announcement of a para category and the inaugural female ambassador.

The para run offers individuals and teams with physical and/or mental disabilities to join in the fun and get the blood pumping by running in the 13km, 6km or 3km race.

“We’re very excited that for the first time we have a para category,” says Dave Keogh, marketing manager for Pub2Pub.

“We’ve already got several teams that have enrolled, including a big team from Sunnyfield. It’s going to be great to see them out there, all having a wonderful time.”

Accomplished marathon runner Jenny Wickham has been named as the first women’s ambassador for the event, which she hopes to win for the ninth time.

While the 44-year-old local mum may have lost count of how many Pub2Pubs she’s run in, she proudly recalls winning the 13km Dee Why to Newport race four times since 2008.

“I love the Pub2Pub,”says Jenny.

“I’ve run a lot of events both here and overseas, but nothing has the same community feel.”

The former Australian Marathon Champion and Athletics NSW Female Distance Runner of the Year recipient says she is exited to hit the pavement for the 13km event with her two eldest daughters.

“I love the way it teaches young runners like my kids the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle and being part of their local community while raising money for worthy charities,” she adds.

“The Pub2Pub is perfect for families with kids of all ages.”

It’s estimated between 3,000 to 5,000 runners just like the Wickham family will be joining in this year’s event.

They’ll be staggered across three distances - running either 13km from Dee Why beach, 6km from Warriewood’s ‘Rat Park’ or 3km from Mona Vale Surf Club - to all end up at Newport Beach.

“It will be a wonderful way to welcome spring as it has to be the most scenic fun run in Sydney,” says Mr Keogh.

At Newport Beach, the Finish Festival will be in full swing, with live music, street-food market stalls and games for the kids. Free post-race massages for weary muscles will also be on offer, along with refreshing 4 Pines beers for the adult runners.

The event will support the Northern Beaches Council’s commitment to waste minimisation by going plastic-free, including not offering sunscreen sachets or bottled water, and all money received from entries will be divided between this year’s chosen charities - Life Education Australia, Surf Lifesaving Northern Beaches, Without a Ribbon, the Sanfilippo Children’s Foundation, Avalon’s One-Eighty and Guide Dogs NSW.

As with last year, those that wish to contribute to the fundraising but don’t consider running their strong suit can become ‘virtual runners’.

These ‘runners’ pay half the entry fee, which goes directly to charity, and can still join and be counted as a member of a team.

Registrations are now open for all races, with exclusive family packages on offer and reduced prices for juniors.

“It’s always a fun day out, and with the Northern Beaches being so community oriented, it’s just got a great vibe,” Dave adds.

For more information, pub2pub.com.au