What do a real estate agent, physiotherapist, radiation therapist and cardiologist have in common?
This weekend a special quartet from Far North Queensland will tackle the tough TCS Sydney Marathon course while carrying the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation’s message to one of the world’s biggest running events.
Cairns locals Karl Latham, Suzanne Rath, Brock Ditton and Steve Sutcliffe will line up in the international event that attracts tens of thousands of runners from around the globe and showcases Sydney on the world sporting stage.
The quartet is not only chasing a personal challenge – they are fundraising for the Foundation, helping raise awareness and support for better health outcomes across Far North Queensland. The TCS Sydney Marathon is now one of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, joining Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York as one of the world’s premier, most prestigious marathon races.
Foundation Fundraising & Marketing Manager Jenny Coates said the runners embodied the community spirit that drives the Foundation’s fundraising efforts.
“These four runners are proudly representing Far North Queensland at one of the world’s premier marathon events,” Mrs Coates said.
“This is the first time we’ve taken up this opportunity for fundraising at this internationally acclaimed event and we’re thrilled that this quartet have embraced it with such gusto,” she said.
“Every training run, every kilometre and every dollar raised is helping support better health outcomes for people across our region.
“We’re incredibly grateful that Karl, Suzanne, Brock and Steve have chosen to take on this challenge in support of the Foundation. Their commitment is inspiring and they’re helping introduce the Foundation to a national and international audience.”
The marathon field will feature thousands of runners from around Australia and overseas, with the runners so far having raised a collective more than $33,000, with Mr Latham leading the charge.
At the time of writing, Mr Latham, on more than $17,000, was the 14th highest fundraiser of the event’s 9500 individual fundraisers.
While race day will bring its own challenges, the months of preparation and fundraising have already delivered an impact, with the team helping spread awareness of the Foundation’s work throughout the community. For the runners, crossing the finish line will mark the culmination of countless early mornings, long training runs and dedication to a cause close to their hearts.
“Far North Queensland has a long history of people backing their community,” Mrs Coates said.
“Karl, Suzanne, Brock and Steve are taking that spirit all the way to Sydney this weekend, and we’re incredibly proud to have them representing us.”
Photo: Brock Ditton, Karl Latham and Suzanne Rath (absent: Dr Steve Sutcliffe).
