Fun run offers lots of prizes

Participation is the name of the game at this year's Wairarapa Times-Age Fun Run and Walk on October 14, says organiser Craig Roberts.

Mr Roberts said an 80-year-old woman was planning to complete the 5km walk with the help of a wheeled walking frame and "we've got someone doing the 5km on crutches".

The 5km and 10km events are part of the Wairarapa marathon and half-marathon, and Mr Roberts said that by yesterday afternoon 300 people had been entered in all events.

With more than 100 spot prizes on offer, worth $5000 to $6000, Mr Roberts said runners and walkers had a good chance of a bonus besides the fun of taking part.

"There are 10 Asics $250 vouchers, so that's $2500 vouchers right there."

Entries need to be received by tomorrow to avoid a $5 late fee but can be taken online until noon Friday next week, with registration on Saturday, October 13, at the venue and as a last resort on the day.

The more than 100 spot prizes include Asics sports shoes and socks, cycle gear from Happy Valley Cycles, sports towels and elastic shoelaces, which are popular with multisports athletes needing a quick uniform change. Prizes also include travel blankets and deck chairs.

All events begin at Makoura College, with marathon runners heading twice around the Lees Pakaraka Rd and half-marathon runners taking the same route once. The 5km and 10km fun run and walk take in other scenery, including Henley Lake.