Dean Ryan, 32, winner of the Courts and Sports World Fun Run yesterday set a benchmark record of finishing the race within 24 minutes.

The Laucala Bay Athletics Club member is originally from Australia and is staying in Fiji for a year.

Mr Ryan said he trained for long-distance and short distance runs every day.

“I got more inspired to participate in this Fun Run activity by following Suva marathon club on social media,” he said.

More than 500 people turned up for the event, which was jointly organised by Courts and Sports World and the Ministry of Health. The one-day event promoted effective and affordable means for citizens to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The six-kilometre run started and ended at the My Suva Park.

From left: Mohammed Altaf Junior and his parents Reapi Qeteqetelevu and Mois Altaf senior at the My Suva Park during the Courts and Sports World Fun Run yesterday. Photo: Shreeya Verma

National Advisor for NCDs in Fiji, Dr Isimeli Tukana encouraged the participants to continue walking and do daily physical exercises.

“We want all Fijians to walk for health and to fight against NCDs,” he said.

Dr Tukana said this campaign would help eradicate the growing threat of NCDs and enhanced plans for long life.

Sports World general manager, Vinod Kumar said this was the 10th year of organising fun run activities.

“Next week, we have Zumba organised in Nakasi and later at Damodar City,” he said.

Courts Fiji Limited chief marketing officer, Anil Senewiratne said: “We come from a social angle to assist the public and it is a good testimony that people are interested in their health.

“It is good to see many children nurturing the importance of being healthy.”

More fun run activities are planned for the Western and Northern Divisions soon.

Edited by Percy Kean

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