Nine dedicated World Vision supporters have achieved a major milestone by completing the 2011 New York Marathon on 6 November. They weren't just running for glory. They were running to change lives and give a hand up to people living in extreme poverty.
The nine were among 45 Australian runners who have raised a combined total of $500,000 for a number of charities, including World Vision.
“We are so proud of our runners - they have all put in an enormous effort to not only train for the race but also to fundraise,” said Rose Levien from Team World Vision.
“Some of our team members had never run a marathon before so this is an outstanding personal achievement for them.”
First-time marathon runner, Kate Offer, was chosen to be an official Social Media Reporter for the marathon. She has been publishing a blog, The New Walker, over the last year detailing her preparations for the race.
“This has been an amazing experience.
I have been overwhelmed by the support I received from family and friends, both financial and emotional, which encouraged me to make it across the finish line,” said Kate.
“My blog has been a great way of keeping people up to date with my fundraising and training but has also been online therapy for me this year! To then be selected as one of the official bloggers for the race was a huge thrill for me, the icing on the cake of an incredible year.”
Team World Vision runners participate in events around Australia and major international events like the New York Marathon while raising funds for World Vision.
All funds raised by the New York Marathon runners will support World Vision’s social and economic empowerment projects that provide people and communities with the support, tools and training they need to work their way out of poverty and into self-sufficiency.
Team World Vision is now recruiting for events in 2012.
Visit the Team World Vision website to find out more