After having to cancel last year’s Pink Race Day due to COVID-19, ClubsNSW and the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation (HBCF) were grateful the 2021 event could go ahead, raising $90,000 for HBCF.
Whilst the recent COVID-19 restrictions posed an impact on the event, the Newcastle Jockey Club, ClubsNSW and HBCF made necessary arrangements to ensure all participants were safe.
President of ClubsNSW in the Newcastle and Hunter Valley region, Scott Williams said that the health and safety of our community is paramount.
“COVID-19 had taught us all to be agile and adaptable particularly when organising an event. Rather than postponing the day, we made the necessary modifications so that all attendees were safe,” Scott said.
Being a community funded charity, HBCF relies on the support of days like Pink Race Day to be able to continue the work they do in the local community.
HBCF’s General Manager, Ellie Wells said whilst COVID-19 has presented many challenges for the foundation, the local community has continued to be extremely supportive.
“We were disappointed that not everyone could attend the 2021 Pink Race Day, however being part of such an understanding community meant that we were still able to go ahead with an event that is so vital for HBCF,” Ellie said.
Even though the event could only host half of its attendees, the day was still able to raise more than $90,000 to support HBCF and the work they do within the local community.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported us on the day. Whether that was through attending the event, donating a prize or a virtual donation your contribution makes a significant difference to the work we do,” Ellie said.
Pink Race Day acknowledges the longstanding partnership between Clubs of Newcastle and HBCF.
Since 2009, Pink Race Day has raised more than $370,000 to help HBCF continue to provide vital services to individuals and families as they navigate their way through breast cancer.
Scott Williams said that the partnership with HBCF is a no-brainer.
“ClubsNSW provides support to communities every day. The unfortunate reality is that many Club members have a relative or friend that has been touched by breast cancer,” he said.
“The Pink Race Day is a great example of local clubs supporting a local charity that assists local people,” Scott concluded.
IMAGE | Abbey McDonell, Gracyn Endacott, and Claudia Tolhurst at Pink Race Day (left-right).
