With Australian representative Scott Westcott and some of Armidale’s finest runners in attendance, entries were declared officially open for the rapidly growing event.

The event will be held on Sunday, November 1 at Harris Park with 5km and 10km events for adults and a 2km event for children.

Westcott, a distinguished marathon runner, has been the driving force behind the fun run in previous years, but this year race director Jay Stone said they were trying to convince Westcott to run in the event.

“Scott has been doing all the leg work,” Stone said.

“We are trying to ease the burden on him this year so he can compete as well.”

The Armidale Fun Run has been growing continuously since its inception and Stone said the goal was to make the 2015 version the biggest ever.

“We are aiming for about 500 adults, we had 350 last year,” he said.

The event is billed as attractive for both competitive and casual runners.

“We get both,” Stone said. “There is prize money up for grabs so we do attract some good athletes, but we also encourage participation across the board.”

Volunteers are still being sought to ensure the event runs smoothly.

“An event of this magnitude can’t go ahead without 50 or 60 volunteers,” Stone said.

Entries are being taken now online at armidalefunrun.com.au and an early bird special is available. 

Anyone who enters before October 16 will receive a free t-shirt and a discounted rate of $10 for kids, $20 for the 5km and $30 for 10km.