About 3000 people watched 40 teams contest the regional classic through the CBD before the St George Athletics Association edged out a St George Junior Dragon Tag team in the final race.

Event organiser Ros Comino was thrilled to host the event once more, having cancelled it twice in the past three years.

‘‘It rained in 2008 and it rained in 2010, so it was great to have such a good day,’’ she said. ‘‘I’m very pleased.’’

Mrs Comino said runners had raised the standard of competition for this year’s anniversary event.

‘‘The fitness of the teams and speed of them was great,’’ she said.

‘‘It was probably the fastest team we’ve ever had.’’

Sporting clubs, gymnasiums and athletics organisations were well represented in the race’s entry list.

‘‘You hear all these reports about obesity and people not getting off the lounge,’’ Mrs Comino said.

‘‘Maybe that’s not happening

in Kogarah.’’

Her observation was supported by Heart Foundation awards won by Kogarah Council in 2010, where the council took state and national recognition for helping staff and residents to maintain healthy weight, partly through a ban on transfats and its ‘‘scores on doors’’ food inspection program.

Kogarah mayor Nickolas Varvaris said he was proud of the race.

‘‘This year’s was extra-special as it was the 20th anniversary and it was fantastic to see so many people come along to watch the race and enjoy the carnival atmosphere of the fair,’’ he said.

‘‘The money we’ve raised will go to the St George Hospital and everyone involved in Saturday’s event should be very proud of their efforts.’’

This year’s event has raised more than $25,000 so far, with more expected in coming weeks.