One team well into its training regime for this year’s PAYCE Sutherland 2 Surf is a group of competitors with physical disabilities representing Achilles Sydney.
Achilles Sydney president Ellis Janks said its members enjoyed the healthy activity of walking and running and the organisation strongly encouraged members to participate in as many community running and walking events as possible, along with their regular fitness sessions.
“In the lead up to the PAYCE Sutherland 2 Surf, Achilles Sydney members have competed in several recent events across Sydney including the Sydney Morning Herald half marathon in the city,” he said.
“Our members really enjoyed the event last year and were very appreciative of the fantastic support shown by fellow competitors, PAYCE and Wanda Surf Lifesaving Club.”
Achilles Sydney member Brett Anthony, from Gymea, will be competing in the event for the second time this year.
Anthony is blind and participates on a regular basis in fun runs and walks across Sydney accompanied by volunteer guides.
“I am excited to be participating again this year on my home turf along with my friends and fellow members of Team Achilles Sydney,” he said.
“It was a bit chilly to start with last year but it didn’t take long to warm up and everyone competing and along the way were so friendly and encouraging.
“The whole event is organised so well from go to whoa and I’m thrilled to take part thanks to the support of Achilles Sydney and PAYCE.”
Last year 11 members of Achilles Sydney tackled the 11-kilometre course for the first time as an official team after PAYCE offered to pay the team’s entry fees. PAYCE staff also volunteered to assist the Achilles Sydney guides.
PAYCE director Dominic Sullivan said PAYCE was proud to be associated with the event, especially with the involvement of St Vincent de Paul Society NSW as the charity partner this year.
“Vinnies is one of our iconic and most respected charities and does outstanding work in communities across the country helping people experiencing disadvantage,” he said.
“I wish Wanda Surf Lifesaving Club and all participants a successful and enjoyable day and feel sure the shire community will again show its outstanding support for this major family and community event.”
Race director and Wanda SLSC life member Michael Brannock welcomed back the participants from Achilles Sydney.
“It is an inspiration to see organisations such as Achilles being involved in the race and making it possible for those with a disability to be able to participate, have fun and be part of the community,” he said.
“We will be cheering them along when we spot their bright yellow shirts.”
The 47th Sutherland 2 Surf will be run on July 22 with registrations open.
