Revitalised riverbank included in new 21km fun run course
Published on 31 August 2023
The flourishing Grafton running community will take another leap forward on Sunday 05 November 2023 when the Jacaranda Fun Run expands to include a 21.1km distance on its program.
Adding to the popular 10km, 5km and 2km Colour Run events, the challenging longer event will take runners on a return loop from Memorial Park to Waterview Heights.
"The course will incorporate the new three-metre wide path along the Federal Government funded Grafton Waterfront Precinct, and the recently upgraded shared user path along the Gwydir Highway," Clarence Valley Council Event Development Officer Deb Merritt said.
PICTURED: The upgrade of the 3.8km shared user path from Ryan Street, South Grafton to Rogan Bridge Road, Waterview Heights has enabled Jacaranda Fun Run organisers to map a suitable 21.1km course almost exclusively using footpaths, minor suburban streets and a rural lane with minimal traffic disruptions and road closures. Photo: CVC
"Both bridges and the interconnecting footpath network at either end will also be used in what will be a celebration of the significant pedestrian infrastructure improvements by Clarence Valley Council and Transport for NSW in recent years.
Grafton Jacaranda Festival Manager Mark Blackadder said the Grafton Waterfront Precinct was one of the motivating factors behind the addition of the 21.1km event.
“The captivating allure of the new Grafton Waterfront Precinct, gracefully nestled along the tranquil Clarence River, has ignited our spirits and inspired us to elevate this year's Jacaranda Fun Run to greater heights," Mr Blackadder said.
PICTURED: The spectacular sight of the Bent Bridge Run Club using the Grafton Waterfront Precinct shared user path for their weekly 5km run will be mirrored in the Jacaranda Fun Run 21.1km, 10km, 5km and 2km Colour Run events on Sunday 05 November. Photo: Simon Hughes Photography
The Jacaranda Fun Run is traditionally the final event on the 10-day Jacaranda Festival calendar.
"We now have options for all abilities and fitness levels," Mr Blackadder said.
"The 21km event is already attracting interest from serious runners outside the Clarence Valley area, which will increase overnight stays and benefit the local economy.
"Meanwhile those looking for a burst of colourful fun will enjoy our 2km run which includes an optional purple colour run at the finish line in Memorial Park.
"This event is all about inclusivity, so gather your friends, family, and co-workers and let's make memories together. Everyone is welcome no matter what fitness level."
VIDEO: Bent Bridge Run Club's first birthday celebrations on 16 August. Credit: Simon Hughes Photography
Bent Bridge Run Club founder Kieran McAndrew has been involved in organising the route with the Jacaranda Festival Committee and Clarence Valley Council. He said he had noticed a significant increase in community members using Grafton's footpath network including along the Grafton Waterfront Precinct.
"The new waterfront is being used for a whole variety of activities and it's fabulous," Mr McAndrew said. "All day, every day there are people walking dogs, children on scooters, young people picnicking and birthday parties.
"Everybody in the run club loves it, and the average numbers for our weekly run are increasing because of that drawcard."
PICTURED: About 90 runners and walkers turned out for the Bent Bridge Run Club's first birthday celebrations, hailing in the new Grafton Waterfront Precinct shared user path, on 16 August. Photo: Simon Hughes Photography
The newly opened 650m path was recently incorporated into the run club's free 5km social run held at 5.30pm every Wednesday from Memorial Park.
Mr McAndrew said the emergence of his social running club a year ago and growth of the local running community generally was testament to the growing network of shared user paths linking areas of Grafton and South Grafton, which have improved the perception of public safety.
"There seems to be more people being active at sunrise and sunset than ever before in Grafton," he said. "But it's no surprise - if you build it, they will come. People that would otherwise be sitting around are out and about walking dogs, chatting with friends and building community.
"Five years ago it didn't feel as safe to run around Grafton. There were fewer paths, most weren't wide enough, there were more streets to cross, and more dark areas. These days, I don't remember the last time I ran around Grafton early in the morning or late at night and felt unsafe. It's a huge improvement."
PICTURED: The Grafton Waterfront Precinct by night. Photo: Simon Hughes Photography
More details about the routes and entry information will be released on the Jacaranda Festival website soon.
For media enquiries please email communications@clarence.nsw.gov.au or phone0427 894 745.
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