Round the Bridges marks its 40th

IN THE RUNNING: Runners cross the Cobham Bridge during last year's Round the Bridges. PICTURE / STUART MUNRO

The Property Brokers Annual Round the Bridges Fun Run and Walk is on again on Sunday, May 21.
The Wanganui Chronicle-driven event is celebrating its 40th anniversary and is still attracting huge crowds of competitors and spectators.
The start/finish line used to be beside the river out the back of the previous Wanganui Chronicle building in Taupo Quay, but now all events in the programme start and finish near the pumpkin in Kowhai Park.
"It caters for all the family," says organiser Gene Toyne. "We have a kids' course, and this year being its 40th, the occasion is festive with live music from the Ukulele Orchestra, a free sausage sizzle, a bouncy castle ... and this year we are supporting Whanganui Plunket."
Last year's chosen charity Birthright Whanganui received a $3100 donation from the Round the Bridges event.
There will be spot prizes as well as more specific awards, such as "cutest pet". Dress-up is encouraged, says Gene.
Property Brokers is supplying staff to assist with the event, and Plunket is also helping out with volunteers.
Wanganui Harriers are on board to help with marshalling and setting up the course.
The programme is as follows:
8am - Registration and gear tent opens.
8.55am - The one kilometre Sport Whanganui Kids' Course starts for the under-fives.
9.10am - The long course walkers start.
9.45am - The long course runners begin.
9.50am - The short course walkers head off.
10.10am - The short course runners start.
The short course takes in the Dublin St and town bridges, with the long course including the Cobham (motorway) Bridge.
"Run or walk, have fun, it's not a competition," says Gene, although each winner will be recognised. "It's about supporting the charity and bringing the community together."
Cost of entry is $2 for children aged 5 to 12 and $5 for entrants 13 years and over. To register email gene.toyne@wanganuichronicle.co. nz or call 06 349 0710 extension 50943. Property Brokers has been sponsoring Round the Bridges for five years.