COVID-19 won't dampen the running spirits! In 2021 the Kirikiriroa Marathon will be run as a virtual event that can be run anytime over the weekend of 13th – 14th March.
This annual event started in 2016 with the aim of being a more affordable marathon and to encourage first time marathon runners. It was also organised to showcase the Waikato River trails and Hamilton Gardens.
This year’s marathon will also raise funds for two charities, the Waikato Breast Cancer Research Trust (WBCRT) and Achilles NZ. The WBCRT is a Hamilton-based charitable trust enabling breast cancer research to improve care and treatment of Waikato and NZ women diagnosed with breast cancer. Achilles NZ provides those with disabilities the opportunity to participate alongside able-bodied athletes in sporting events.
WBCRT Research Nurse, Heather Flay, is in training to run the marathon for a fourth time. She loves both the idea of an affordable entry fee and having the event in her hometown, Hamilton. Heather's goal is to cross the finish line under seven hours, "It doesn't matter how slow you go, you are still ahead of those on the couch".
Heather, a cancer survivor herself, will run to help those diagnosed with breast cancer. To sponsor Heather with a donation to the Waikato Breast Cancer Research Trust go to; https://givealittle.co.nz/donate/org/waikatobreastcancertrust
So get off the couch, lace up those running shoes, stretch those leg muscles and get out on the pavement! Go Heather!
For further details about the marathon and to enter; go to https://www.kirikiriroamarathon.co.nz/ or facebook.com/kirikiriroamarathon
21 February 2021
