Support breast cancer research at Wollongong's Mother's Day Classic

More than 1000 people have registered for Sunday’s fun run, or walk, around the foreshore but in past years a further 500 or so have signed up on the day.

With wet weather forecast, event manager Grant Plecas is urging people to come along anyway, to raise vital funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF).

“We’ve been very lucky with mainly good weather over the past 17 years, but we’d urge people to still come and show their support this year whatever the conditions,” he said. “Our goal is to raise over $50,000 for the NBCF to continue to undertake research that is definitely making a difference to those touched by breast cancer.”

This year the inaugural recipient of the Dr Margaret Gardiner scholarship, Dr Kara Vine-Perrow, will share details of the research her team at the Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute is conducting into improved treatment options for breast cancer.

There will also be a minute’s silence for Dr Gardiner, the much-loved and respected founder of the Wollongong event.

“Last year’s event was so close to when we lost Margaret and many people weren’t even aware she had died, but they pledged their ongoing support to make sure the great work she’d started would continue,” Mr Plecas said.

Participants can take part in 2km and 5km runs or walks, with events to start from Stuart Park from 9am. On-site registration will be open from 7am. For details visit www.mothersdayclassic.com.au

Athletes Foot Wollongong has been a long-term supporter of the event, with managers Rachel and Brett Magennis again ready to man the first drinks station at this year’s event.

“There’s such a positive vibe every year and it’s just a beautiful way to start mother’s day and support such a great cause,” Ms Magennis said.