If you’re an Albury-Wodonga local, then you likely know the second Sunday in February is City2City Sunday.
City2City is the largest regional fun run in Australia and the only run where you start in one state and finish in another. The 2020 event brings with it the addition of a fourth 15km course and the redirection of a portion of entry fees to support bushfire relief.
Driven by a passionate committee and supported on the ground by a dedicated group of volunteers, City2City raises much-needed funds to support our region’s local health services.
A different beneficiary is selected each year, and this year, Nolan House was chosen with proceeds from the event going to fund the first stage development of a therapeutic garden area. The works contribute to Nolan House’s support of the mental health needs of the community.
“The upgrade will allow for therapeutic group programs and social activities which contribute to a sense of community, skills development and social enjoyment,” said Janet Chapman, Albury Wodonga Health Executive Director, Regional Partnerships and Planning.
Fun run participants have plenty of options, with the 10km fun run, 7.5km fun run and the popular Walk & Talk and the new 15km fun run to choose from when they register.
All courses start at QEII and wend their way across the border, finishing at Junction Place and take in the sights along the Murray River, Lincoln Causeway and Sumsion Gardens with the 15km looping behind Gateway Plaza. Performers and water stations dot the course to help keep the energy up and every one hydrated.
City2City co-founder, Michelle Hudson says the addition of the fourth, 15km course should be a drawcard for new and returning runners who are looking for more of a challenge.
“The new 15km fun run will follow the 10km fun run course, with an additional 5km loop running along the Murray River behind the Gateway Village complex, rejoining the 10km course at the Gateway Lakes loop.
“We hope the addition of the 15km fun run will provide an extra challenge for regular participants, as well as attract new entrants looking for a longer course”, Michelle said.
The new course isn’t the only change taking place this year. In addition to supporting Nolan House, a portion of 2020 entry fees will be directed to local bushfire recovery efforts, with 20% of entry fees will be donated to the Border Trust Bushfire Relief Fund.
“The feeling across the City2City Committee and AWH [Albury Wodonga Health] was that if we have an opportunity to contribute to communities and individuals impacted by the recent bushfires, we should absolutely do so,” Michelle said.
The Border Trust Bushfire Relief Fund has been established to support bushfire recovery efforts in the region, with 100% of funds staying local. Funds generated by City2City will be directed towards programs that focus on the mental health and well-being of impacted individuals and communities.
There will also be further opportunities to donate to Nolan House and Border Trust Bushfire Relief Fund during the registration process.
Registrations are still open, and participants can register as individuals or as a team and there is a $2,000 finish line cash prize as well as the Jacob Toyota Challenge Cups up for grabs.
The Hume Bank City2City RunWalk starts at 7.45am on Sunday 16 February at QEII Square. For more information or to register, head to city2city.org.au
