Games Gallop kicks off in support of charity

Published: 19 March 2021. (Note: information was correct at date of publication but may have since been changed or superseded.)

THE challenge to “kick” mental illness in a fun and energetic way has been set for the second Great Barrier Reef Masters Games (GBRMG) Gallop on Wednesday 19 May.

The Games Gallop is a 4km charity fun run supporting local charity Kick On, which promotes positive mental health through various programs, events and campaigns in schools and workplaces.

The run is open to anyone who wants to get in on the Games action, whatever their age, and participants will have the chance to win great prizes.

Mayor Bob Manning said the Gallop was a great way for the community to get a taste of the camaraderie and merriment of the Games, while promoting mental health awareness.

“The Games Gallop will kick-start the Master Games weekend,” Cr Manning said.

“It’s a chance for everyone to be a part of the fun of the Games, whether or not you’re an athlete. Participants will get to join our Games ambassadors on the run and they’ll the chance to win some great prizes.

“There’s no age minimum and it’s suitable for all fitness levels. It’s really about celebrating the Games, welcoming athletes to our city and having a lot of fun in the process.”

Kick On founder and chairperson Drew Brauer encouraged participants to wear the colour blue for the run as visual awareness of the charity’s signature colour.

"The positive physical and mental effects this event has for so many sports people is paramount and totally aligns with our ethos,” Mr Bauer said.

“These Games are such a great event for Cairns to host and Kick On is exhilarated to partner with Masters games this year."

Saturday 20 March marks two months until the opening of the 2021 Great Barrier Reef Masters Games in Cairns. More than 2500 athletes are expected to compete across 18 different sports during the competition.

To register for either the Great Barrier Reef Masters Games or the Games Gallop Fun Run  visit www.gbrmg.com.au.

The $5 entry fee for the Games Gallop will support the work of the Kick-On Charity which delivers mental health and suicide awareness programs in schools and workplaces.