This year's PAYCE Sutherland2Surf is promoting and supporting an active lifestyle for people with disabilities, with Achilles Sydney appointed as the event's official charity partner.
Achilles Sydney is an arm of Achilles Australia, an organisation which facilitates training and participation in running and walking events in a supportive social environment where people with disabilities can achieve life-changing goals.
Event organiser, Wanda Surf Life Saving Club, will be furthering this advocacy within the club and the wider community, ensuring everyone has an equal chance at participating in the fun run, walk or wheel event.
Race director Karen Byron said that up to 12 members and their guides from Achilles Sydney have taken part in the event as a team for the past two years with the support of PAYCE and prior to that many members competed as individuals.
"When we looked at selecting the Charity Partner for 2019, Achilles Sydney was a standout choice," Ms Byron said.
"Wanda Surf Lifesaving Club's annual event on Sunday 21 July provides opportunities for all people, regardless of skill and ability to take part, whether that be running or walking or in a wheelchair.
Ms Byron said the calibre of elite runners does not take away from the community spirit of the day.
"The event is a great day out, fostering a healthy and active lifestyle for all and, importantly, it's Wanda SLSC's major fundraiser for the year to ensure that everyone enjoys a safe experience on Wanda Beach."
Achilles Sydney President, Ellis Janks, said the club strongly encourages members to participate in as many community running and walking events as possible, along with regular fitness sessions.
"We have 11 major events listed on our 2019 calendar, but some keen members manage to fit in more through the year," he said.
"We have even had members participate in overseas events, including the Boston and New York marathons."
Mr Janks thanked the Wanda club and PAYCE for their support and the additional opportunity for Achilles Sydney to participate in the community event as the charity partner this year.
"We are truly thrilled and honoured to be involved at this level," he said.
"Of course, our participation would not be possible without teamwork and our wonderful band of volunteer guides.
"Dedicated volunteers include Dr Eliza Middleton from Sutherland who will be accompanying Gymea resident, Brett Anthony, who is blind, for the third year running"
Dr Middleton said Achilles Sydney had an inspiring group of enthusiastic members and she looked forward to joining Anthony and fellow members for another fun day in their local community.
PAYCE Director, Dominic Sullivan thanked the race organisers for selecting Achilles Sydney as this year's Charity Partner.
"It is a great choice and PAYCE is proud to be continuing its association with Achilles Sydney and. supporting the Sutherland2Surf again this year as major sponsor," he said.
Details: sutherland2surf.com.au or achillessydney.com.au
