When runners make their way to the start line on Sunday morning, there might be some furry friends lining up alongside them.
The PAYCE Sutherland to Surf returns this weekend, with the shire’s iconic community event now in its 45th year.
Vision Australia Caringbah have entered a team for the first time this year to help raise awareness of the work the organisation does with people living with blindness and low vision.
The team includes staff and their family as well as clients – and their four-legged friends.
Race director and Wanda Surf Life Saving Club life member Mick Brannock has been running the event for more than 20 years and welcomed the new entrants.
“It’s great to see such a variety of people of all shapes and sizes taking part in this year’s event,” he said.
Entries looked to be on par with last year for the 11-kilometre fun run or walk, with today the last day for online entries.
The event is also Wanda SLSC’s major fundraising event for the year. The club’s publicity officer Gay Curtis was pleased to see the connection between the race and Vision.
“The event is about the community. We’re a community-based charity, that’s how we promote ourselves. Some people might not realise that’s what Wanda Surf Club is about,” she said.
“So for us to be involved with other community organisations it’s really important. It just brings everyone together and it’s really inspiring actually.
Vision Australia regional manager Sydney South and South West Jodie Cox also supported the link.
“If you spot the Vision team along the way we’d love [runners] to get into the spirit of the day and pass on friendly greetings,” she said.
“Nationally Vision Australia works with people of all ages… so they can do what they want in life. We are a for-purpose charity organisation. Our most popular services include seeing eye dogs, technology, skills for living independently, educational and employment support, a fully accessible library and recreational and social clubs.”
The race starts at 8am.
Details: sutherland2surf.com.au
