Join Community Running for the Fun of It

IT IS no surprise record numbers of people are signing up to compete in community running events such as The Sydney Morning Herald Half Marathon presented by Colonial First State.

The combination of healthy activity, a fun day out, personal challenge and, for many, the unique opportunity to run on city streets normally choked with traffic is a winning one, according to Olympic Games marathon hopeful Michael Shelley.

"Fun runs have become really popular in the last 20 years, I think because people see running as a relatively cheap way to get fit," he said. "With the pressure of the family budget, gyms often aren't a good option. All you need is a pair of shoes and sports clothes to go running. It's also flexible because you don't have to work around a class time, you just go out for a run when you can and according to how much time you've got."


Events such as the Half Marathon - only three weeks away on Sunday, May 20 - act as a goal for runners of all levels, Shelley, the race's special ambassador, said.

"There is definitely a buzz and camaraderie among the crowd," he said. "One of my favourites is [The Sun-Herald] City2Surf, not only because I have won it but because a number of my mates have come down from the Gold Coast and we've made a weekend of it. I also enjoy the London Marathon with the crowds and just the amazing feeling of running through the city and seeing these world-famous landmarks; it's a little bit surreal.

"The Half Marathon is a race like that. It attracts people who love the idea of running through the streets of Sydney, by the harbour. At the very least if you're finding the going a bit difficult, you can distract yourself by watching the scenery."

This weekend Shelley, 28, will be joined by his brother Mitchell and dad Jim at a Gold Coast fun run.
With 12,000 people already registered, entries are filling fast for the 2012 Half Marathon - enter now at smhhalfmarathon.com.au.

The Sydney Morning Herald Half Marathon presented by Colonial First State is sponsored by New Balance, Rebel Sport, Gatorade, Seiko, 2UE, Run 4 Your Life, 93.5FM, Sheraton on the Park Sydney, GU Energy Gel, East Sail and charity partner Breast Cancer Network Australia.

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