Calling aspiring wheelchair athletes to join Run Geelong

Transport Accident Commission (TAC) is giving people with spinal cord injury the chance to take part in a community fun run and meet a Paralympic champion at Run Geelong this month. 

As part of the event's aim to encourage people to run, walk or roll Geelong in the November 17 event, wheelchair entrants of all abilities are invited to take part in the 12km or 6km events.

The TAC’s Acting CEO Clare Amies said the TAC would cover the cost of registration for the wheelchair participants, to encourage everyone to get involved. 

“Participants can choose the fast paced 12km event alongside Richard Colman in a race chair, testing themselves against the three-time Paralympian,” Ms Amies said.

“Or if you prefer to take part in a day chair or just at your own pace, you can do that in the 6km event.

“All participants will be able to meet Richard Colman after the events at the TAC marquee, to pick up some training tips and share race experiences,” Ms Amies said.

Richard is back for a second year as ambassador for Run Geelong after competing extensively overseas this year. 

“I’m aiming to finish both the Westfield Geelong 12km race and the GMHBA 6km family walk this year,” Mr Colman said.

“It’s great to be back in my home town for such a great community event and I hope to see heaps of chairs out there on the course.”

The TAC has been supporting Run Geelong since 2011 with staff embracing the community event. 

The event was the major fundraiser for the redevelopment of the Geelong Hospital Children's ward and is now funding the refurbishment of the Special Care Nursery at the hospital. 

More than 200 TAC staff are signed up for Run Geelong with wheelchair entries now coming in.