Jane Saville

The Salmat Yarra Bay Fun Run and Walk was a great success with 300 participants in the 6km Fun Run and Walk and a further 50 kids in the 1200m running races. Over $5,500 was raised through entry fees for Ian Thorpe’s Fountain for youth (www.ianthorpesfountainforyouth.com.au). Ian attended the presentation for the events and was very grateful for the support of his charity and also pleased to see so many people enjoying a healthy, active life.

Above: ALAN WHITE, PETER GARRETT and IAN THORPE

We were also privileged to have in attendance at the presentation representatives from all three levels of government;

• Federal Minister for Environment, Arts and Heritage and Member for Kingsford Smith; The Honourable Peter Garrett.
• NSW Minister for Roads and Member for Maroubra; The Hon. Michael Daley.
• Randwick Councillor (South Ward), Alan White.

Above: Alan White, Michael Daley, Jane Saville, Ian Thorpe and Nat Saville

There has been a lot of positive feedback from participants and I will certainly aim to grow the event next year. I have included some photos here and also on the gallery part of the website.

Above: Oscar the Orange warming up for the Fun Run and Walk.

Thanks to all the sponsors who donated money and prizes, without them the day wouldn’t have been such a success. And also the volunteers from Randwick-Botany Harriers Athletics Club, Regal Race Walkers, South Eastern Little Athletics and the Randwick SES who ensured everything ran smoothly on the day.

For full results go to http://www.multisportaustralia.com.au/results.aspx and look at 1/3/09 Salmat Fun Run and Walk

Indigenous Youth Athletics Coaching Clinic

Above: Kyle Vander Kuyp teaching kids how to hurdle.

The Indigenous Youth Coaching Clinic that was held on 28th February at Yarra Bay was also a success with 50 Indigenous Kids enjoying nearly two hours of athletics and coaching from accredited coaches and also Olympic Finalist Kyle Vander Kuyp and 2008 National 100m Champion Otis Gowa.

Above: Otis Gowa coaching the kids

It was a great introduction to athletics and complemented with free tickets and bus transport to Homebush for the Sydney Track Classic held that night where they watched Australia’s top athletes compete including Olympic Gold Medallist Steve Hooker in the Pole Vault.

Thanks to everyone who participated in the weekends activities. I’m definitely planning the Yarra Bay Fun Run and Walk for 2010 and hopefully another coaching clinic.