Community and member benefits are a key driver for everyone involved with the annual SBS Marathon and that is why it is exciting to announce that the New Zealand Spinal Trust has been confirmed as the 'charity of choice' for this year's 30th anniversary event.
Newly appointed SBS Bank Christchurch manager Nicki Bennett said selecting the New Zealand Spinal Trust as the charity of choice was another great way that SBS Bank members taking part in the marathon could help fellow members.
"I can't wait to get settled into my new role in Christchurch and get involved in the hype and momentum of this year's anniversary SBS Marathon and it's great to see one of our very own non-profit, charitable trusts on the receiving end of the fundraising efforts.
"We encourage any SBS Bank members taking part in the SBS Marathon to set up their own fundraising website so friends and family can support their marathon competitors, as well as those suffering from spinal cord impairment.
"It could be said that our team at SBS Bank is not shy of rolling up our sleeves and getting involved with our communities or finding ways to come up with benefits for our members," Ms Bennett said.
New Zealand Spinal Trust Chief Executive Andrew Hall said as a registered charity and member of SBS Bank, the trust greatly appreciated the support that SBS Bank offered its community, through its Star banking package for non-profits, community sponsorships and friendly, helpful assistance.
"Proceeds raised from the SBS Marathon this year will help us continue to provide invaluable information, education, research, advocacy and support for people who have spinal cord impairment so that they can enjoy independence.
"Over the years the New Zealand Spinal Trust has grown to be a formidable force in advancing rehabilitation and independent living for people with spinal cord injuries. To achieve this, and to continue to provide services and support for people with spinal cord injuries, we need to continue to work in collaboration, and with the support of the many community, donors and sponsors, that makes the trust's work possible.
"That's why we're excited to be a part of the SBS Marathon this year and we're particularly grateful to be selected as the charity of choice," Mr Hall said.
A record field of 5200 battled challenging weather conditions last year to take part in the variety of SBS Marathon events, including the full and half marathon, 10km fun run and the kids Mara'Fun. The record field ensured that New Zealand's richest running event continued its long-lasting tradition of getting bigger and better every year.
Ms Bennett said she was excited to be involved with this year's anniversary event.
"I've really enjoyed watching the SBS Hamilton Half Marathon grow during our involvement in recent years so I'm more than excited to get into the action when the SBS Marathon gets underway in Christchurch in June."
As proud sponsors, the SBS Bank team would be active with the planning and organisation of the event and many staff would be among more than 300 volunteers on hand to ensure the marathon runs smoothly for the pleasure of all the participants.
Ms Bennett said SBS Bank was pleased to offer the opportunity for SBS Bank customers to get a 'free run' to this year's SBS Marathon.
"We will again be giving away a total of 80 complimentary entries to our eager and enthusiastic athletes. Simply drop into any of our local branches or call us on 0800 502 442, for a chance to gain free entry to the half or full marathon, the 10km or the kids Mara'Fun."
For more information on the SBS Marathon or to register visit www.sbsmarathon.co.nz.
