Sight restoring charity calling for Round the Bays runners

Sight restoring charity calling for Round the Bays runners

The Fred Hollows Foundation NZ is calling on Aucklanders to strap on their trainers and get running to restore sight with the Ports of Auckland Round the Bays. 2015 marks The Foundation’s first year as a charity partner with the fun run, taking place on 8 March. Participants can elect to fundraise on behalf of the charity, restoring sight to blind people while they pound the pavements.

The Foundation’s Executive Director Andrew Bell says that as a healthcare charity, it made sense to collaborate on an outdoor event promoting an active lifestyle.

“It’s a brilliant opportunity for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities to get out and get fit, while creating meaningful change for blind people in the Pacific.”

While registering for Round the Bays, people can opt to join Team Fred, a Foundation-led group who will run and walk the 8.4km course, spanning the length of the Auckland CBD to St Heliers Bay.

Bell explains that taking part in the race is a chance for Foundation supporters to engage with the charity’s work in a tangible way.

“We’re often approached by individuals looking for different ways to support our work and fundraising over the course of an event like this offers dual benefits. Our supporters are able to enjoy a great day out, meeting other like-minded people along Auckland’s extraordinary waterfront. At the same time, our Pacific patients benefit from the eye care services we’re able to deliver as a result of generous donations from the supporter’s network.”

In the Pacific, four out of five people who are blind don’t need to be –their condition is preventable or treatable. All funds raised by Team Fred will go towards The Foundation’s eye care services, giving blind people back their sight and their life.

To register for the Ports of Auckland Round the Bays, visit roundthebays.co.nz.

After registering for the race, those interested in raising funds for The Foundation should create an account through the Everyday Hero website. Detailed instructions are available at hollows.org.nz/roundthebays.

ENDS

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