Adjt 8/7RVR Capt Andrew Butcher, completing his laps in the early hours of the morning during the Relay for Life in Ballarat. Photo by WO2 Craig Cunningham, 8/7RVR

Relay runners raise funds

By Pte John Wellfare
Soldiers from 8/7RVR have raised more than $1000 for cancer research running in the Relay for Life in Ballarat.

The event was held over 24 hours, requiring one member of each team to be on the track at all times. Organised by the Cancer Council of Victoria, it attracted more than 400 participants.

8/7RVR’s team, consisting of 11 runners, rotated on to the track for 30 minutes at a time and each member ran about 35km over the 24-hour period.

The soldiers were also awarded prizes for the most laps completed by a team and by an individual, after eclipsing their nearest rival by more than 50 laps.

According to unit recruiting officer WO2 Craig Cunningham, the event, while not classed as a recruiting activity, provided excellent public relations within the community, which, in turn, will attract potential recruits.