The PNGOC has launched its annual fun run ©PNGOC

Papua New Guinea’s annual nationwide Trukai Fun Run has been launched, with money raised set to be used to help send the country’s athletes to major international competitions. 

Around 50,000 participants are expected at the 34th edition of the run on June 26, with Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) President Sir John Dawanincura stating the success of their athletes has been boosted by funds raised at the run.

The run has been arranged due to a partnership between the PNGOC and Trukai Industries, who are acting as the event’s naming rights sponsor for the 17th time.

Additionally the 2016 event has also seen the Cancer Foundation join as a partner, with the official run shirts having the message “Protect Your Family from Cancer, Eat Healthy and Exercise Regularly” printed on them.

Emma Waiwai, Papua New Guinea’s Chef de Mission for Rio 2016, called upon the public to take part in the run to show their support ahead of the Olympic Games.

The fun run will hope to encourage people to pursue a healthy lifestyle
The fun run will encourage people to pursue a healthy lifestyle, it is hoped ©A. Molen/ PNGOC

“There was an increase in participation in 2015 because of the Pacific Games being held in Port Moresby and we encourage people to continue the same show of support for Team PNG this year,” she said.

“Buy a Trukai Fun Run t-shirt and join us on June 26 and show your support for Team PNG.”

The PNGOC are also asking for organisations and businesses to support the team by buying shirts, either normally or at auctions, which are due to take place on March 16 and 17.

It is hoped that the event will also help to promote good health and encourage the public to pursue an active lifestyle.