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Murray Marathon 2005 Ready to hit the river
22 December 2005
Nearly 800 paddlers are ready to hit the River in the 2005 Murray Marathon. On Tuesday, 27 December the paddlers supported by around 3000 land crew will set out from Yarrawonga to begin the annual Murray River adventure through some of Victoria's most beautiful scenery. Five days and 404km later they arrive in Swan Hill to celebrate New Year's Eve.
The event began back in the "Summer of '69". Ten school friends came together in seven canoes to battle 250 miles of the mighty Murray River in order to raise $250 for Australian Red Cross.
From these humble beginnings, the Red Cross Herald Sun Murray Marathon has become one of Australia's oldest and most respected sporting traditions. Over the years the event has captured the imagination and interest of thousands of people from Australia and across the globe.
The event attracts people of all ages and abilities, with relay teams there for a laugh and a good cause, paddling alongside elite athletes hoping for K1 Cup glory. The race also sees a myriad of different boats participating. This year we will see teams and individuals paddling not only in canoes and kayaks, but surf skis, home made boats and even a boat that uses pedal not paddal power.
During the event paddlers and their land crew will form a moving tent city which stops in the Murray River Towns of Tocumwal, Echuca, Cohuna and Swan Hill. The massive group is hard to miss,multiplying population and local businessturnover.
Fundraising for the Australian Red Cross has always been an integral part of the marathon, as participants raise vital funds to support local Australian Red Cross emergency services and community programs. The event will raise funds for services such as the Good Start Breakfast Club and Emergency Services.
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Media contacts:
Jacqui Pringle
Senior Marketing and Communications Officer
Australian Red Cross
Telephone 03 8327 7756
Mobile 0448 571 484
viccomms@redcross.org.au
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