RUN the Plains, the two-day running carnival to be held in Moree later this month, is expected to bring hundreds of spectators and participants to Moree.
Sponsors have clambered on board to be a part of what is hoped to become an annual event.
Run the Plains, planned for September 27-28, is being jointly organised by 2400 Run Club, Moree Little Athletics Club, Tourism Moree, Moree Ski Park and Moree Parkrun.
The 2400 Run Club was established in Moree in 2022 by Liberty Walker and Joe Burgess, whose aim was to bring friends together and encourage socialising while exercising and staying fit.
Joe and Liberty saw the traction similar initiatives had gained in other towns and cities and thought the concept could easily work in Moree.
They have since left the district, but 2400 Run Club continues to grow through the organisational skills of Felicity Taylor.
Anywhere from six to 20 runners meet at a designated point in Moree at 6am every Friday morning and go for a run.
“Now the weather is warming up, numbers are climbing,” Felicity said.
The course changes from week to week and members are informed via Instagram @2400runclub each Thursday.
“The distances we run ranges from four to six kilometres, but can be scaled as needed,” Felicity said. “The Friday morning meet-ups provide an opportunity for local runners to meet new people and explore Moree’s many beautiful paths.”
New faces, visitors to town, and kids and dogs are welcome to join the group.
“We typically leave from Apex Park at 6am. However, a popular recent addition has been the sip ‘n’ stride runs, which start at one of our main street cafes,” Felicity said.
“This allows us to reward ourselves with a post-run coffee while showing some love to these great local businesses,” Felicity smiled.
The 2400 Run Club has joined forces with Moree Little Athletics Club, Tourism Moree, Moree Ski Park and Moree Parkrun to bring Run the Plains to life on September 27 and 28.
“The entire group is very excited for Run the Plains to spread the joy of social running throughout the Moree community,” Felicity said.
“Run Club regulars will be out on the course competing in a variety of events as well as volunteering to make sure everything goes smoothly and to plan.
“We welcome anyone wanting to get in some more training ahead of Run the Plains to set their alarm and come along and try 2400 Run Club on a Friday morning,” Felicity smiled.
Meanwhile, volunteers are needed to help organise and co-ordinate the inaugural Run the Plains.
The running festival is expected to bring hundreds of visitors and participants to Moree.
Kelly James, from Moree Little Athletics Club, says many hands make light work, and is seeking volunteers to help co-ordinate the gala two-day spectacular.
“We’re seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help with this exciting community event,” Kelly said.
“We will need help with registration and participant check-ins, course marshalling and direction, and event set-up and pack-down.
“This is a great opportunity to meet people and visitors to Moree, enjoy the excitement of the event, and contribute to the success of Run the Plains Moree,” she said.
Persons able to lend a hand, can register interest here: https://raceroster.com/events/2024/92540/run-the-plains
Words and Image: Bill Poulos
