Leprosy Mission New Zealand was well-represented at the Auckland Marathon on October 30 with runners and walkers in every category of the event.

The Mission exceeded its fundraising target from last year with a healthy sum of $12,500 which goes towards their work with leprosy-affected individuals and their families overseas.

The Mission’s Running 4 Rights team had 28 members comprising Mission supporters and volunteers, Youth Advocate Scholarship applicants, board members and staff.

Miriam Whitton, who was in the Running 4 Rights team, said Leprosy Mission was a great cause. “If people knew about this cause it would be pretty easy to get behind it and running is a great way to fundraise and get into it at the same time and support a good cause. People who know you and really believe in what you are doing love to support you.”

The Running 4 Rights team also participated in events around the country including the Dunedin Half Marathon, Taranaki Half Marathon and the Devonport Classic, which Stefan van Woerden took part in.

“Running 4 Rights is a really cool experience, I really enjoyed doing the run, it’s cool to get out there, do some exercise and actually make an impact on the people around the world and the world we live in,” said Mr van Woerden. “By raising money we can make a difference.”

Brent Morgan, Leprosy Mission NZ’s executive director and Gillian Whitley, donor development manager, both completed the half marathon. As team manager, Ms Whitley was impressed with the Running 4 Rights team turnout and the great atmosphere at their site in Victoria Park after the event.

She thanked everyone who took part for their commitment to the Mission — “it is much appreciated”. She also thanked All Saints Scout Group Birkenhead for helping out on the day, cooking on the barbeque and setting up the tent site at Victoria Park.

The 10 km marathon had a record number of entrants from overseas and all across New Zealand, with 15,500 runners and walkers from all age groups ranging from 5 to 80-plus.