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The Rainbow Games 2024 and Auckland’s renowned Waterfront Half Marathon are delighted to announce a new partnership for the inaugural edition of the multisport event.
Running is one of 14 sports on the Rainbow Games programme, which also includes: netball, badminton, swimming, basketball 3x3, diving, football 5-a-side, lawn bowls (Bowls3Five), roller derby, tennis, ten-pin bowling, touch and volleyball 4s.
For seasoned athletes or complete beginners, the Games’ organisers endeavour to create inclusive and empowering sport events for diverse rainbow communities. However, participants do not have to identify as LGBTQI+ to join in the fun and excitement, offering an unparalleled opportunity to reap the benefits of sport. Like most sports in the programme, participants running in affiliation with the Rainbow Games can enter the Open (all genders and identities) or female-identifying (cisgender, transgender or non-binary AFAB) category before selecting their distance: 5k, 10k or Half Marathon.
By combining forces, event organisers have created adynamic platform that offers participants an opportunity to traverse a carefully planned route which encompasses Auckland’s iconic landmarks. The flat course gives participants the opportunity to race for a personal best, while less experienced runners can also take it step-by-step and walk the routes. Moreover, affiliated runners can access the wider arts, cultural and social opportunities of the Rainbow Games 2024.
To run in these disciplines in affiliation with the Rainbow Games, participants will need to register at www.RainbowGames.co.nz with early bird offers (from $100 NZD) available from 5pm on Thursday 8 June 2023. Running packages include:
• Subscription to one of the following: Open or female-identifying 5k, 10k or Half Marathon
• A ticket to the Opening and Closing ceremonies
• Player accreditation
• Transport discount options
• Goodie bag
• Access to the RG24 arts, culture and social hub.
• Sport and event guide with local retail and hospitality discounts
• Opportunity to win a RG24 medal
Rainbow Games participants at the Waterfront Half Marathon will also receive an exclusive branded running tee to commemorate their participation and celebrate their strides with pride. Moreover, runners will receive:
• A WHM branded race number and timing chip
• A WHM Participation medal
"We are delighted to partner with the Waterfront Half Marathon for the Rainbow Games 2024. This collaboration enables us to provide our participants with a truly memorable experience, combining the excitement of the Games with the breath-taking beauty of Auckland's waterfront. We believe that this partnership will further emphasize the spirit of unity and celebration that the Rainbow Games embodies.", said Tom Leonard, Rainbow Games 2024 Event Director.
Rob Docherty, Race Director for the Waterfront Half Marathon added, “The Running Events team are thrilled to host the Rainbow Games running events at the 2024 Waterfront Half Marathon. Participation and inclusivity are at the core of our values and hosting more members of the rainbow community amongst the 4,000 strong field will only add to the mood of celebration on Tamaki Drive on race day.”
The full price for these affiliated running events is $110 for the 5k run; $120 for the 10k run and $150 for the Half Marathon, so don't miss out on this fabulous opportunity to save. Hurry, though! The Early Bird offer for running is only available until 31 October 2023, or until the first 30 registrants have claimed their spots. So, lace up your trainers and sprint to the registration page to secure your place in this thrilling sporting celebration.
After the event takes place, Waterfront Half Marathon organisers will provide the Rainbow Games with a bespoke results report for their runners to allocate winning medals for the top three finishers in each category, which players select upon registration.
This partnership will undoubtedly create an unrivalled atmosphere for participants, spectators, and the local community alike. This collaboration reflects the shared commitment to the Games’ values of Turangawaewae (place and belonging), Manamotuhake (self-determination), Hauroa (enhancing wellness), and Manaakitanga (supported approach) and showcasing the best that Auckland has to offer.
For more information on Rainbow Games 2024 and the Waterfront Half Marathon, including registration details and event updates, please visit www.RainbowGames.co.nz/sports/running
