27 December 2004

Clare Monger of Wyoming, central coast New South Wales is set to become an award winning paddler.  About to start the Red Cross - Herald Sun Murray Marathon today in Yarrawonga Clare is hoping by paddling 404 kilometres over the next 5 days she will receive her Ultra Marathon Certificate.  The Ultra Marathon Certificate is issued to paddlers who successfully complete the Hawkesbury Classic and Murray Marathon in the one-year.

Clare's motivations are two-fold.  As well as achieving the prestigious award, Clare is also keen to get out and explore more of the countryside.  Originally from England Clare is using the Red Cross - Herald Sun Murray Marathon as her first visit to Victoria.  Clare and her partner Stephen are both experienced paddlers but are a bit unsure about the extreme conditions that the Murray River may throw at them. 

"We have put in a lot of training but aren't too sure about what to expect.  The hottest weather we have paddled in is 35 degrees.  However, we feel prepared and have packed more than 9 litres of water each," said Clare at the start line this morning discussing their preparations.

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.

Taking the challenge of paddling in this gruelling event a day at a time Clare was happy that the Murray Marathon was supporting such a worthy cause.  "It's a nice feeling to be helping such a good cause and that is encouragement to complete the long distance," said Clare.  "Also being sponsored $1 per kilometre means that I definitely have to complete the 404 kilometres so I can give the maximum amount to Red Cross."

All paddlers have a fundraising component to their entry.  This year it is hoped the Marathon will raise $200,000 for the Australian Red Cross, with funds raised supporting Red Cross activities, such as disaster and emergency services and first aid training.

"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