Running to make a difference

Running to make a difference

In 2012 the Christchurch Marathon has had a make-over that could see the annual Queens Birthday Weekend event become bigger and better than ever. And Ronald McDonald House South Island will be a big part of the party.

For 30 years the Christchurch Marathon had been the South Island’s premier marathon event. But on February 22, 2011, decades of sporting tradition disappeared in less than a minute. The Town Hall venue – red stickered. The scenic Avon River route – ruined. But like the city itself, a new-look Christchurch Marathon has emerged from the rubble stronger than ever.

Following 2011’s February quake, rather than skip a year the organisers pulled together an alternative course at Lincoln University. With less than eight weeks notice more than 3000 people lined up, which while down on 2010’s record 5800 starters, was an incredible display of the region’s determination to get back on its feet.

Late last year Christchurch International Airport was announced as the new principal sponsor for the annual Queens Birthday Weekend event. It will now be known as the “Christchurch Airport Marathon”, and will be based at Christchurch Airport on a safe, scenic, flat and fast new course. And along with the new brand and new course, Ronald McDonald House South Island is the event’s new charity partner.

“In some ways,” says race director Chris Cox, “last year’s dilemma was a wakeup call for us.

“It forced us to re-evaluate the event and the way we organise it. Part of that rethink included discussions on what sort of legacy the event leaves. Ronald McDonald House was a good fit with the Christchurch Airport Marathon’s family focus.”

“This is a marathon event and the full 42k challenge will always be the main focus,” says Cox. “But people come from different fitness backgrounds and have different goals, so we provide options like the half marathon and the 10k, and the Kids Mara’Fun makes it a family occasion. Having Ronald McDonald House on board might provide participants with added inspiration and focus to their personal goals.”

Ronald McDonald House stands to benefit from direct donations when participants enter, but also from participants raising sponsorship surrounding their participation.

The 2012 Christchurch Airport Marathon Event is scheduled for Sunday June 3.
Entries are now open at: www.christchurchmarathon.co.nz

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