PNG fundraiser expected to draw 500,000 runners
Updated
Papua New Guinea will stage a nationwide fun run on July 20 - with money raised going to support the country's Olympians in China.
Radio Australia Sport's Tanya O'Shea reports that close to half a million people will head to their nearest sports venue to await the 7.15am starters gun for the Trukai fun run.
What began as a good idea to raise funds for the Papua New Guinea Olympic squad, has created one the the largest nation-wide sporting events.
The PNG Sports Federation and National Olympic committee secretary general, Sir John Dawunincura, says the 5.5 kilometre run will start at the same time in 12 centres.
In Port Moresby alone, 35,000 runners are expected.
"We have based that guestimate on having sold 50,000 t-shirts at an auction in March, and apart from Moresby we have Lae, Rabaul, Kokopo, Garoka, Madang, Kaviang, Kimbe, Alkala, Lahir and Pogra," he said.
