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ASRT NAMED ONE OF TWO OFFICIAL CHARITIES FOR FLORA SYDNEY MARATHON
20 September 2001
The Australasian Spinal Research Trust (ASRT), which funds medical research for spinal cord injury, has been named as one of two official charities by the organisers of the Flora Sydney Marathon and Sunday Telegraph 10K Bridge Run. Already Steve Moneghetti has agreed to support the charity with other big names to follow.
"We are delighted to have been chosen as an official charity", said Bob Turner, Hon CEO of ASRT, "We are very encouraged that some runners will choose to support us and help fund our research: such efforts are a step closer to getting people paralysed from broken backs and necks to walk again".
"Many people with spinal cord injuries will relate to training for a major run. Even if they are not a paralympian themselves, they have to work hard at staying fit within the constraints of more restricted mobility. They know that flexibility and endurance will be paramount when treatments become available."
Prospective runners for ASRT are asked to complete an entry form for either event; and contact the charity for a sponsorship form.
For Event details, including course and entry form, contact www.athletics.org.au (registration closing date is 1 October)
For sponsorship form/charity details, contact www.spinetrust.com.au or call 0413-995-992
Background Information
More than 20,000 Australians currently live in wheelchairs, paralysed by road, sports and everyday injuries. Many of these people are young with major health complications and dependent on others for their every need. Until recently it was thought impossible to repair the spinal cord, but with today's advances in medical science - such as stem cell research - the chance to walk again is getting closer. ASRT was set up six years ago by a group of volunteers affected by spinal cord injury to fund promising research in Australia and increase collaboration amongst scientists worldwide.
According to the Event organisers, the Flora Sydney Marathon has the potential to raise significant awareness and funds for Australian charities.
Further information on ASRT: Joanna Knott, 0413-995-992
ENDS
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