Preparations already starting for Women’s Fun Run

Preparations have already started for the Vestrum Women’s Fun Run.

The annual event is entering its 13th year with organisers hoping participant numbers will again surpass 500.

Women’s Fun Run committee member Brenda Kenney said the run was a way of encouraging women of all abilities to start or continue with their running.

“It’s a great way to make new friends and to enjoy a day,” she said.

The run has allowed the Bunbury Runners Club’s female membership to steadily grow.

“We went from not having a lot of women to now having a club with about 50 per cent female membership, maybe even a bit more,” committee member Sharon Peacock said.

“I think the run is very encouraging and a non-judgemental event and process.

“Women can come along no matter how slow or fast they are because there is always someone to run with — everyone finishes with such a positive feeling.”

While the event is not until August 4, those planning to participate in the 10km run or 5km walk can take part in free training sessions from June 25.

Ms Kenney said sessions would be held on Tuesday and Thursday nights over a six-week period leading up to the run.

“We do 30 minutes on Tuesday nights and then join up with the Bunbury Runners Club for a mob run on Thursdays,” she said.

She highlighted the social aspect of the run was always important.

“I don’t think any of us would run on our own any more,” she said.

“Meeting up with a group of people for a run means there is accountability to be there.

“There can be up to 40 people taking part in our Saturday morning runs on a big day.”

The Princess Run will also return for girls aged from two to eight years.

Money raised from the event will be donated to the South West Refuge and the Waratah Support Centre.