27 December 2004

What three words of advice would you give to someone considering paddling 404 kilometres down the Murray River?
"Just do it!" say Carolyn Muluey and Laura Beaupeurt of Uladulla.

The two are adrenalin-seeking junkies and have put their body to the test in various endurance events this year.  They are currently the Hawkesbury Classic record holders in their class.  They have competed in the Oxfam Trailwalker and today are setting off in the Red Cross - Herald Sun Murray Marathon.

The Red Cross Murray Marathon is the longest flat-water canoe race in the world, covering 404km of the Murray River in Victoria. The event starts in Yarrawonga on December 27 and finishes in Swan Hill on December 31.

Carolyn and Laura spent a lot of time on the Shoalhaven training for this event.  "If you don't have a go you'll never know," said Laura at the starting line this morning.  Carolyn agreed saying "you'll be surprised what you can achieve."  The two share the same motivations and passion for a challenge.

As well as being good fun challenge the Murray Marathon is a fundraiser for Australian Red Cross.

"The Red Cross does really good work.  It's nice to do a sporting event and help out a bigger cause," said Laura.

"The funds raised from this event are crucial to providing services for the most vulnerable in our community," said John Powell, Group Manager of Fundraising, Australian Red Cross, Victoria. "The Red Cross would not be able to provide essential services such as disaster support and emergency response without the funds raised through this event.

The Red Cross Murray Marathon is one of the most important events on the Australian Red Cross calendar, raising funds to help local communities during times of emergency.

There are many different entry options to make it achievable for everyone, including teams, relays, individual, half distance and junior distance categories.

ENDS