Registration Open for 2012 Arthritis New Zealand Marathon

It’s time to register for the 2012 Arthritis New Zealand Marathon, dust off your shoes, and get training!

 The Arthritis New Zealand Marathon, which kicks off at 8am on 12 August 2012, aims to raise more than $10,000 to help the half million New Zealanders living with the pain and disability of arthritis.

Not keen on the long haul? No worries, shorter options are available including a half-marathon, 14km or even a nice 7km. Walkers, joggers and runners can all take part; just make sure you are having fun! Teams, team relays and Nordic walkers are encouraged to get stuck in.

Now in its third year, the marathon’s route follows breathtaking scenery along the riverside, helping to keep participants inspired and motivated.

Over 80 people took part last year, and almost half completed the entire marathon. This year, the goal is to see even more people excited, active, and involved.

Help Arthritis New Zealand meet their fundraising goal - once you’ve registered, head to everydayhero.co.nz/event/arthritismarathon and set up your own fundraising page. Challenge your friends, family, and co-workers to sponsor you. Your contributions will help people with arthritis live a better quality of life.

If you are interested in helping people with arthritis, but aren’t so keen on the marathon, you can lend a hand with other fundraising activities. You can help by sponsoring a runner, having a sausage sizzle, selling chocolate bars, or bring your own ideas to help raise funds!

Kim Raggett, the marathon’s founder, knows only too well how arthritis can affect a person’s life. After experiencing extreme pain and swelling in her feet, Kim was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis when she was 34-years-old. She successfully manages her arthritis with medication, exercise and natural supplements.

For more information, including entry fees and how to register, contact Carol Hall on (07) 829 4536, email carol.hall@arthritis.org.nz, or visit the marathon’s website at allaboutsports.co.nz/arthritis-marathon.

To learn more about arthritis, or to make a donation, visit arthritis.org.nz or ring 0800 663 463.