Bridge To Brisbane

2011 Major Charity Partner

maria — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 00:39:12 +0000

We are pleased to announce that Legacy will be the major charity partner of The Sunday Mail Suncorp Bridge to Brisbane in 2011.

Legacy is dedicated to caring for the families of deceased veterans and assists more than 100,000 widows and 1,900 children nationally. Their vision is that no Australian veteran’s family will ever face the challenges of life alone after the veteran’s death and they do whatever it takes to enable families to thrive, despite the loss and sacrifice.

News Queensland Managing Director, Jerry Harris said Legacy’s commitment to supporting families of deceased veterans was inspiring.

“The tragic losses endured in Afghanistan this year have been a stark reminder to us all of the commitment and sacrifice made by Australian forces when serving overseas” Mr Harris said.

Suncorp’s Mark Reinke said Legacy was a cause close to all Queenslander’s hearts.

Funds help bridge the gap

maria — Sat, 13 Nov 2010 00:38:17 +0000

There were smiles all round on Friday when The Sunday Mail Suncorp Bridge to Brisbane presented Autism Queensland with a cheque for $200, 000, while fundraising network Everyday Heroes allowed entrants to put money towards a charity of their choice, raising an extra $330,146 for charities, including $79,371 for Autism Queensland.

Accepting the cheque was Autism Queensland, Manager – Fundraising and Marketing, Paula Davidson, who said the money would go towards “making a difference” for children under six who are diagnosed in the early stages of autism.

News Queensland Managing Director, Jerry Harris said The Sunday Mail had raised significant funds to assist those with a condition not many people were aware of.

Suncorp Executive General Manager of Marketing, Mark Reinke said he was proud to have raised the profile of autism while raising funds for Autism Queensland.

Over the past 14 years, more than 289,000 people have participated in The Sunday Mail Suncorp Bridge to Brisbane and have helped raise over $3.71 million for charities in Queensland.

Sweet Tooth for Sweet Victory

maria — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 03:02:20 +0000

SO just what does it take to
win back-to-back Bridge to Brisbane events?
“The nutritionists won’t like this but I eat a lot of sugary substances like soft drink, jelly lollies and chocolate,” Michael Shelley confided after his win yesterday.
“I’ve got a Violet Crumble back at the hotel.”
The whippet-like physique of the 26-year-old belies the admission, but then he didn’t have a recovery like most after the 10km run.
“I ran to New Farm just to keep the blood pumping, and I’ll do another 10km this afternoon,” he said after the post-race presentation at the RNA.
The Bachelor of Business student is gearing up for the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, but still got a laugh out of some of the sillier-looking participants yesterday.
“The people who dress up and those who get out there and have a go – that’s what you want,” he said.
“At the end of the day, that’s what makes the event – the people.”
Some of the wackier entrants included three mates who wore full body suits that covered their faces, teamed with black underpants and canvas slip-on shoes.
And 30 “nuns” from Hell Pizza suited up in habits to raise money to help save the Tasmanian devil.

Team Machine Powers up for a team effort

maria — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 03:17:13 +0000

TAKE a bunch of teenagers, throw in some sweaty socks and jubilant smiles, and what do you have? A team effort to finish The Sunday Mail Suncorp Bridge to Brisbane today.
Fifteen young people from Carindale PCYC have been training hard as part of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme and are part of a wider PCYC fundraising drive to raise $20,000 for a Youth Leadership Program targeting at-risk youth.
Ryan Nobbs admits preparing to run 10km has been a matter of gritting his teeth, but it feels good, the 16-year-old said.
“Basically I can do things now I couldn’t do before,” Ryan said of his increased fitness. The award is about challenge, adventure and achievement and encourages participants to become more self-sufficient through confidence in physical activity and team building.
“Training is easier when there’s someone running with you, otherwise you just don’t,” he said.
Stacey Clift, Carindale PCYC’s youth development officer, said free fitness classes were held regularly to get the guys and girls to the starting block.
“Some will walk, some will jog and others will do a mix of running and walking over the 10km,” Ms Clift said.
“Training has been really supportive, with the team ensuring everyone’s all right and achieving their best and they’ve really been able to motivate each other.”
Completing the award requires a volunteering component, learning a new skill and achieving a fitness level.
Ms Clift said the program not only captured at-risk youth, but young people keen to get school credit for extra curricular activities.
Also known as Dukes, it is a recognised course of study for the Queensland Certificate of Education. Students can gain up to four points towards their QCE by achieving their Dukes Awards – one for Bronze, one for Silver and two for Gold.
Ms Clift said it was a great fit for many young adults.
“If we can encourage emotional learning and becoming healthy young adults, whether here or in school, it’s ticking the boxes personally and for the QCE,” she said.

12-week challenge profile – Bruce Young

maria — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 03:15:54 +0000

Bruce Young
Sales manager
DESPITE being a Brooks sales manager, Bruce Young is a new recruit to running.
He always loved the shoes, just never broke a sweat in them.
In 12 weeks he has gone from looking for excuses not to exercise to being a competent medium-distance runner. As part of the 12-Week Challenge team, Mr Young has been tying on the running shoes several times a week on the way up to completing The Sunday Mail Suncorp Bridge to Brisbane 10km course today.
Mr Young admits to being tempted to drink beer but has found a way to cut down on the bevvies and up the heart rate.
“With being in the corporate world we do a lot of travelling but now I’m finding time to run,” he said. “For instance, when I was just in LA, I said before I go for a beer I have to go for a run.
“Somehow I am finding time for a run when I never could before. Maybe I was just looking for excuses.”
The 12-Week Challenge has been an important part of The Sunday Mail Suncorp Bridge to Brisbane philosophy, which is about embracing fun, fitness and a healthier lifestyle.
Huge numbers of readers are following the nutrition and training tips published weekly, following the lead set by the mixed group in the challenge team.
Mr Young said being on the team had given him that extra motivation to try a different routine.
“I did hope to lose more weight, though I have shed 5kg,” he said.
“I just loved doing the challenge. Once I had that reason, I just really caught on.”

Race gives kids a better start – Autism Program opened windows for little Kynan

maria — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 03:13:35 +0000

LITTLE Kynan Boyle spoke his first words while on an Autism Queensland program.
So you can understand the warmth the Boyle family feels towards the Kidstart Outreach Program.
“He hadn’t spoken before, so it was such a big deal for us,” mum Elouise Boyle said.
Dad Steven will be running and raising money for the organisation which has “opened the windows” on their two-year-old son.
Autism Queensland is The Sunday Mail Suncorp Bridge to Brisbane’s official charity because of its amazing work for children with autism and their families. Much of the money raised will go towards extending the Kidstart program, from which the Boyles benefited.
In the Kidstart course, children are given individual programs, mostly in the family’s homes, with intensive therapy to boost communication and social skills.
Mrs Boyle said Kynan was diagnosed early because his differences were quite obvious.
“We used to think he was deaf because he would never turn to his name,” she said.
“But we did the test and there were no problems. He has sensory issues; he is pretty much non-verbal and not very good with his fine motor skills.
“(Sometimes) there’s just non-stop screaming because that’s the only way he can communicate.
“He doesn’t sleep well at night because he can’t tell the difference between night and day.”
Mr Boyle had to leave his job to assist in the full-time care of Kynan, but he and his wife don’t regret a minute.
“I can’t imagine life without him,” Mrs Boyle said.
Apart from the small steps taken with his speaking, the couple have just been trained in getting Kynan to communicate using picture recognition.
It’s early days yet, but they can see the positives, hoping eventually he can tell them through the pictures he is thirsty or hungry.
A regular Friday playgroup run by Autism Queensland has been a lifeline. “We have remained friends outside the playgroup. We go to other children’s birthday parties and it’s lovely to share that support,” Mrs Boyle said.
“Because it can be hard. . . sometimes you will go to the shops and Kynan will have a meltdown and people stare at you like you have a terrible child. But people in the playgroup can share all that and give you support.”
FACT FILE
BRISBANE:
* Two schools (Brighton and Sunnybank) that provide an autism-specific curriculum for children from early intervention to school age to complement their broader education
* Eight houses providing 24-hour supported accommodation for adults with autism
* Two respite houses providing short-term breaks for the families of people with autism
REGIONAL QLD:
* EarlyAQtion group placements, playgroups, individual programs and outreach programs in far-north Queensland and central Queensland
* Two regional centres in Rockhampton and Cairns. These centres will focus on early intervention for children under school age
For more information, visit www.autismqld.com.au.

The real fun begins at the finish line

maria — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 03:11:51 +0000

LIVE music from James Blundell will keep the feet moving at the finish line of The Sunday Mail Suncorp Bridge to Brisbane.
The fun doesn’t stop at the RNA Showgrounds just because the race has.
Top up with food and drink at one of the food stalls, listen to one of the bands playing, get some great warm-down tips and enter a draw to win a Suzuki Swift.
Country music sensation James Blundell will be the morning’s highlight, taking to the stage at about 10.50am.
Warming up the stage for Blundell and his band will be Sweet Talker, pumping out the latest pop songs at about 10.05am, and Renee Jones of Viroga Yoga demonstrating some handy warm-down tips.
Those at the 5km start will be entertained by a live performance from the River City Community Music Association, warm-up sessions by Coaching Fitness and a chance for the children to get their groove on by dancing with Humphrey B. Bear.
While today is a fun run and a fabulous opportunity to raise money for charity, it is important that entrants don’t push themselves too hard and keep hydrated along the way.
There will be an emergency buffer lane along the Gateway Bridge and Kingsford Smith Drive where medical staff will be patrolling.
If you feel unwell or are having serious difficultly, move into this lane to seek attention.
There will be nine hydration stations along the 10km race course, and four on the 5km route.
Brisbane Run Squad founder Mark Turner said the elite runners might not use the drink stations, but it was good for others to take a break and grab a drink. Good preparation was important, too.
“In the days leading up to the race, drink 5-8 glasses a day with meals as that improves absorption,” he said. “On the day, have a light breakfast and a couple of glasses of water.”
He said not to try anything new on the day. Don’t wear new shoes, try a new breakfast or push yourself hard if you don’t normally. “Just enjoy the day – it’s a great community event.”
Entrants are encouraged to join the fun and wear fancy dress on race day. And there are plenty of prizes to be won in the random prize draw, including a Suzuki Swift.
Place your random draw tag from your race bib onto the Suzuki display car near the finish line once you have finished the race.
Entries close at 11am today and will be drawn soon after. You must be present at the time of the draw to win.
Readers of The Sunday Mail can download James Blundell’s Queensland Calling track for free. To access the download, visit bridgetobrisbane.com.au. The track features on James’ album Portrait of a Man.
RACE-DAY ENTERTAINMENT
6.10am 10km start at Gateway Bridge
9.40am 5km start at Hamilton recreation reserve, Remora Rd, Hamilton
At 5km point
River City Community Music Association, warm-up sessions by Coaching Fitness and Humphrey B Bear for the kids
AT RNA SHOWGROUNDS
End of race food vendors and expo stalls open
10.05am Sweet Talker and Renee Jones from Viroga Yoga
10.50am James Blundell (pictured)
11am Entries close for random prize draw, prizes include a Suzuki Swift
11.25am Prizes drawn

Manners matter on race course

maria — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 03:34:04 +0000

THIS is my first Bridge to Brisbane fun run.
I’m not big on crowds and the mere thought of being jostled by 50,000 people dressed in everything from seamless lycra to superhero outfits leaves me a little sweaty before I’ve even tied my sneakers.
But in a rash move, I signed up and am set to walk the 10km route. Run? As if.
I don’t have compression socks, hi-tech shoes, a GPS watch or a Wonder Woman suit, but I’ll don the T-shirt of my favourite charity (the Matthew Stanley Foundation) and give it a go.
Like any sport, there are rules, and the more people who abide by them, the friendlier the atmosphere.
So after a bit of research, here’s a quick guide to fun run etiquette. Basically, be considerate of others, don’t get aggro and don’t step on anyone’s toes.
* Chat to people before the race begins (even if they have green hair). Strangers aren’t always strange and ultimately it’s the community spirit that you’re there for.
* If you’re running with a group, try not to run more than two abreast. Yes, others may want to pass you.
* Don’t carry loose change or keys in your pocket. Jingling is annoying.
* Say thanks to race volunteers who hand you water, guide you on the course or put your medal around your neck. The race would not go on without them.
* Acknowledge supporters who cheer for you as you pass them. Too tired to speak? Smile, wave or give them a thumbs up.
* Don’t stop at water stations. Apparently, it gets chaotic. Drink after the stop on the side of the road. If you stop or slow down, ensure there are no runners behind you. Don’t cut off other runners or spill water on them.
* Admire the scenery – the Sir Leo Hielscher Bridge, the Brisbane River, the mansions on Hamilton Hill, and the view of the city from the Inner City Bypass, but don’t trip or stumble into others while you’re gazing around. If you do, say sorry.
* Don’t stop in the middle of the road if you’re tired – move to the side to catch your breath.
* It’s not cool to use other participants as a target to pass, then slow down immediately in front of them.
* Don’t talk on your mobile phone if you’re racing – it’s distracting.
* Spectators: don’t step on to the course to cheer your partner, child, friend, neighbour, colleague. Other runners/walkers don’t want to have to dodge you.
* If you’re going to spit, do it subtly and make sure it’s not going to land on anyone else’s body. Gross.
* Don’t drop your water bottles, yes there are street cleaners but think of the environment.
* Smile – remember it’s a fun run.
* Remember you’re running through people’s neighbourhoods so be considerate with everything from littering to language.
* Take extra care if you’re walking with a stroller – don’t run into other people’s heels.
* Don’t immediately stop at the finish line. There will be runners coming in right behind you.
* Don’t hog more than your fair share of food and drinks at the end. The slower runners/walkers at the back will appreciate having goodies when they finish.
* Once you’ve finished the race, go back and cheer others on. That’s nice.
* When you leave, be patient. Yes, expect queues for the shuttle buses.

Soldiers run Bridge to Brisbane in battle zone

maria — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 03:28:24 +0000

THE skyscrapers and bitumen roads of Brisbane are far away but that hasn’t stopped fitness-conscious soldiers deployed to Afghanistan training for their own desert version of the Sunday Mail Bridge to Brisbane race.
Close to 200 runners hit the sand in blistering heat topping 40C yesterday to take part in the Tarin Kowt Bridge to Brisbane.
Physical training instructor Sergeant Brady Whittaker, who organised the 5km and 10km fun run, said competition was important for the troops.
“’It gives them something else to do and something else to think about other than work,” Sgt Whittaker said.
Lieutenant Emma Cameron, from Chermside, is a physiotherapist at the base in Oruzgan province and pounded the bitumen on base in preparation for the competition.
In Brisbane, about 50,000 people are expected to compete tomorrow for the run – and walk – to the RNA showgrounds.
The weather is expected to be a cool 9C for the run, which will raise money for Autism Queensland.

12-week challenge profile – Iam Skippen, Radio Personality

maria — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 03:42:16 +0000

RUNNING up and down hills with dog Charlie is about the best training you can do for The Sunday Mail Bridge to Brisbane, according to radio star Ian Skippen.
Charlie sets the pace and off they go, yarning to neighbours and whoever else the Triple M identity bumps in to, which is just his approach to the fun run.
“I don’t set out to do a time,” Skippen (pictured) said.
“It’s a pretty social event, that’s the best thing about it.”
Mr Skippen is part of The Sunday Mail Suncorp Bridge to Brisbane 12-Week Challenge team.
The team was set up to inspire readers to push themselves and provide guidance on nutrition and training.
Every week The Sunday Mail has published tips and tricks for getting fit and staying healthy.
The Triple M broadcaster rates the fun run as a mix of socialisation and sweat.
“I just plod along and stop and chat to whoever’s around,” he said.
But he must talk fast because last year he made the 10km event in 59 minutes – not bad for plenty of pitstops.
“Look you’ve got to have fun,” he said.
“I train at home on the treadmill or with the dog.”
“I haven’t made it for any of the public training sessions, my early hours just don’t allow for that.”