Get ready to run for koalas

PERSONAL fitness trainer and emerging medium distance runner Tanja Thomas hopes to set a personal best in the Redlands Koala Fun Run this Sunday, May 29.

She will also now go in the running for a major prize draw being offered by Solomon Airlines for Fun Run participants who have formally registered to participate in the 3.5km, 5km, and 10km Fun Run circuits.

Solomon Airlines have provided a return airfare to Honiara, three nights accommodation and entry into the Solomon Fun Run in September this year as a prize.

Tanja, from Holland Park West, has entered for the 10km circuit.

She has already been joined by more than 200 runners, including competitors from overseas and interstate who have signed up for this exciting new addition to the annual running calendar.

A French documentary presenter and a former world-ranked bi-athlete are just some of those who have been attracted by the new event.

Mother of two, Kerry says her eight-year-old daughter Sophie, who has successfully taken up running in the past few months, is excited about entering the 5 km race.

"It seems like a big challenge for such a little girl but I think there are lots of other school children and younger runners entering so she will have lots of company and is very keen to run," Kerry said.

"Actually I think she is just happy to have her koala t-shirt and there will be entertainment afterwards, so whatever happens we all should have a good day," Kerry said.

Fun Run ambassador and Commonwealth Games gymnastics gold medallist Thomas Pichler said the inaugural Koala Fun Run provided circuits for everyone and organisers are expecting many people to simply stroll or walk the 3.5 km circuit with their family and friends.

"It's great to see such a diversity of participants in this event and I am sure Tanja, Sophie and their friends and family will have a wonderful fun and healthy day in the Redlands while helping spread the important message about saving our endangered koalas for future generations."

To register for the run, go to www.koalacentral.com.au and follow the registration links.

The Koala Fun Run is sponsored by the Solomon Airlines, the Bayside Bulletin, Tailwind Promotions, the Good Guys Capalaba and Energex.

Bayside Bulletin, 24/05/2011