Crowds of people took to Kingsford Smith Oval as well as the streets surrounding it for the annual Lane Cove Fun Run on 8th September 2024.
Despite it being one of the only overcast days in a week of sunny spring weather, hundreds of people participated in the event running for glory, and fun and to raise funds for the Lane Cove Public School.
“The community spirit is the best thing,” explained Anthony Doyle, who In The Cove recently interviewed for representing Australia in the 2024 Multisport World Championships, “Alice [Anthony’s daughter] said this morning that we run for fun and that’s what it’s all about today.”
Anthony, like many others, participated in the event with his family. The run offered a glimpse of all walks of life from Lane Cove with many people focusing on the ‘fun’ rather than the ‘run’ by donning quirky costumes during the events.
“It is beautiful scenery and a gorgeous day for it… Though I did get beaten by Snow White and Mario and Luigi,” one runner wearing a Flash muscle tee admitted, “But my favourite part has got to be the doughnuts.”
One runner even went the extra mile, completing his last event inside an inflatable T-rex costume.
“Five km was a lot easier without a dino suit, the 2 km was the harder of the lot, so, glad to be done!”
Punters had the option to enter two races in a circuit around Longueville. The 5 km walk or run for the more determined athletes and the 2 km Family Dash, made so anyone can strut their stuff in style, but still get the exercise.
Kiren Tall, who tied first place in the 5 km circuit with fellow runner Ethan McKenzie with a time of 15:46 told In The Cove after his race that the Fun Run was a good opportunity to practise for the upcoming Sydney Marathon.
“It was a nice hill course and a great hit out before the Sydney Marathon 10 km next week, so this is my warm-up race if you like,” he said.
Mathew Ho placed second in the 5 km with a time of 16:16, and Colin Watson placed third with a time of 17:30.
For the 2 km event, Lachlan Kid took the cake with a time of 6:35. Shortly after, Joseph Rooney came in second at 6:40, with Kiren Ayer hot on his tail, finishing third at 6:43.
Liz Wright, 2024 Director of the Lane Cove Fun Run said “we had a record-breaking turnout of volunteers on the day and for bib collection this year, with the community truly embracing the spirit of the fun run. Over 100 enthusiastic individuals stepped up to help, not only parents from the school but also local residents, members of Rotary, Lane Cove Councillors, passionate runners, and even several from North Shore Running & Fitness”.
Food and coffee were a huge hit, with many vendors selling out entirely—a noticeable change from previous years. Liz noted that “people seemed eager to stick around after the race, soaking up the atmosphere. The energy was elevated by the fantastic tunes of DJ Simon, who kept the vibe alive on the oval all morning.”
The Lane Cove Fun Run was established in 2015 and was such a success it quickly became an annual tradition. The event is organised entirely by volunteers and is sponsored by local businesses who want to give back to their community.
The day is dedicated to raising funds for Lane Cove Public School, with proceeds going towards extra teachers and learning support staff. Ten percent of the net proceeds will be donated to Sydney Community Services.
There were prizes available for the fastest and best dressed, which added to the fun and enthusiasm on the day.
It was clear among the masses today that the main motivation for Sunday’s athletic feats was to enjoy their fellow locals’ company and get around the community – with one Super Mario-themed family saying it best.
“You can run!” One young Yoshi costumed boy excitedly exclaimed. “Yes, you can run with your friends,” His father added, dressed in his Mario overalls “It’s great for the community and it’s a good day out!”
