Lakes Times, Page: 8
Great Illawarra Walk co-organiser Chris Lovatt said
participating in the event had some unexpected benefits.
"You get to the end and have the function, where you can eat what
you want, as you've burnt off so many calories," he laughed.
The third annual Great Illawarra Walk took place last weekend, the
100km walk involving a trek from Shellharbour Village to Stanwell
Park on the Saturday, followed by a return to Shellharbour Workers
Club on Sunday night.
The walk raises funds for children's cancer charity Camp
Quality.
Mr Lovatt said while a final figure from this year's event would
not be known for a few weeks, he believed the 2010 instalment would
far exceed the $34,000 raised last year. Approximately 400 people
participated at varying stages, with more than 50 completing the
entire walk.
Mr Lovatt expected close to $50,000 to be raised and described the
vibe throughout the two days as "really positive".
A lot of people were hurting on the way back," he said. "But there
was a great feeling of camaraderie, a lot of community minded
people beeping their horns as they drove past us as well.
"There will be some sore bodies today," he laughed on Monday.
"(But) there were no complaints, everyone was encouraging each
other" He also predicted that next year's event would continue the
trend of the walk becoming far more popular each year "A couple
came from Newcastle to take part and raised $1000," Mr Lovatt
said.
"They said they'll be bringing a group down next year.
"We're going to grow and increase next year."