[dropcap]R[/dropcap]unWest hasn’t yet taken place but it already threatens to become an iconic Western Sydney event.
More than 6,000 people have registered for the March 31 event so far, including Campbelltown’s own Izmira Mohd, who will take part along with her husband and seven year old son.
Izmira, who has lived in Campbelltown for over 12 years, took up running while doing her PHD in animal genetics.
She is pumped for RunWest and is encouraging her community to give it – and running – a go with her.
“You don’t need tools or special gear, anyone can do it, you just have to get up and run,’’ she says.
RunWest will be a festival for all ages and abilities but will also raise funds for Western Sydney projects and charities CanToo, Better Foundation, Neuroblastoma Australia, Ronald McDonald House, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and PCYC NSW.
“This festival will encourage healthy living and will showcase the cultures in the area, support important local initiatives and drive economic activity and visitation to the region,” says Darren Gocher, ceo of Athletics Australia.
RunWest will be a 12km run and a 4km family fun run and walk through iconic Western Sydney locations, including the new Sydney Zoo, Sydney Motorsport Park and Western Sydney Parklands.
A finish line festival will celebrate Western Sydney’s diversity, including live music, local sporting heroes, and food trucks.
“It’s going to be a real celebration of Western Sydney, and I encourage everyone to sign up,” Mr Gocher said.
NAB is the naming rights partner of the inaugural event.
“Having the support of NAB will help us ensure that RunWest provides an unforgettable experience for Western Sydney, and create a lasting legacy for the community for many years to come,” Mr Gocher said.
NAB chief customer officer for consumer banking and former NSW Premier, Mike Baird, said NAB was proud to support Western Sydney through this event.
“Western Sydney is a growing, thriving, and exciting region. We’re proud to support important local projects and organisations which make Western Sydney a great place to live and work, including events like the RunWest Festival,” Mr Baird said.
- To register, visit runthewest.com.au
- Watch Izmira’s inspiring video here: https://youtu.be/W1tek-61uIk
