Elite middle-distance racers, running enthusiasts, athletic families and energetic kids will stride along Summer Street next year, contesting the city's newest sporting event, Sprint into Summer – The Orange Mile.
The inaugural Orange Mile, scheduled for September 2022, is jointly funded by Orange City Council and the Australian Government, under the Building Better Regions Fund.
Federal Member for Calare, Andrew Gee, said the event will attract both local runners and racers from across the country, keen on lacing up in the colour city.
FUNDING: Member for Calare Andrew Gee and Orange mayor Reg Kidd pull on their joggers with members of the Orange Runners Club to welcome the funding announcement. (Click to view larger image)
"We've all heard of Roger Bannister – the first person in history to clock a sub-four minute mile. The second person ever was an Aussie, John Landy," Mr Gee said. "Almost 70 years later, runners will have a chance to crack the four-minute mile in the heart of Orange, and have their name printed in the record books for the new 1.6km course."
"The event will encourage people to make tracks for Orange, with visitors looking to carb-load at Orange's cafes, restaurants, and wineries, peruse local shops and boutiques, and rest their head (and legs!) at one of the many motels, hotels and BnBs in the region.
"A section of Summer Street will be closed for the one mile race, with a number of staggered starting groups to help each participant achieve a personal best - and the more serious runners a chance to chase the four-minute mile. It's going to be a truly unique event that will capture people's imagination and also really bring the community together.
"I'll be running laps around Lake Canobolas and Parliament House to prepare for the race !", Mr Gee said.
Elite athletes will start at the head of the field, followed by enthusiast runners, with families, social clubs and novelty runners at the rear.
Podium finishers in each category will receive prize money, with all participants gaining the prestige of being a part of the first Orange Mile.
Orange Mayor Reg Kidd, welcomed the support of the federal government to help get the Orange Mile up and running.
"I welcome the opportunity to work in partnership with the Australian Government to stage this fantastic event," Cr Reg Kidd said. "It's going to be a great blend of serious competition and family fun. There's the potential to attract top runners from across the country and it'll give our local enthusiasts a chance to compete against the best. It's also going to deliver the chance for some serious fun and games for sporting clubs and families."
"I'm guessing there's going to be a real festival atmosphere around the finish line in Summer Street," Cr Kidd said.
