HBA joins the world's best for the first-ever Great Australian Run

HBA, part of Australia’s leading health and care company, Bupa Australia, is lacing up the runners as the premier sponsor of the inaugural 15 kilometre Great Australian Run, to be held in Melbourne on 30 November 2008.

The HBA Great Australian Run will give locals the opportunity to run with Australia’s and the world’s best, including Craig Mottram, Benita Johnson, and the greatest distance runner of all time, Haile Gebreselassie.

Bupa Australia Deputy Managing Director and fitness enthusiast, Richard Bowden, said Bupa was a long-standing supporter of the Great Run Series, which includes runs in the United Kingdom and Africa.

“For the past 16 years Bupa has been a proud supporter of the Great Run Series, which has not only encouraged hundreds of thousands of people to get active, but also raised millions of dollars for various charities,” Mr Bowden said.

“The first-ever Great Australian Run is the first of the series to be held in the Southern Hemisphere.

“Whether you are a distance running veteran or a beginner, we are hoping to encourage as many people as possible to participate in the run – and show the rest of the world how it’s done when it comes to getting up and getting active.

“As well as HBA and Bupa Australia employees participating in the run, we are also helping as many of our HBA, MBF and Mutual Community customers to join in the run through discounted entry fees. Special entry forms will be available from HBA branches in Victoria.”

Bupa Australia Chief Medical Officer Dr Christine Bennett said that with more than half of all health problems linked to unhealthy habits and lifestyle choices, the run was a great opportunity for people to do something good for their own health.

“HBA is committed to helping all Australians to improve their health and wellness, that is why we are proud to sponsor the HBA Great Australian Run,” Dr Bennett said. “The evidence is overwhelming that people who lead an active life are less likely to experience a whole series of major illnesses, such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

Research has also shown that regular exercise can:

·         increase levels of ‘good cholesterol’

·         lower blood pressure

·         boost the immune system

·         help maintain healthy blood sugar levels

·         improve bone density

·         burn fat and help maintain a healthy weight

·         improve your mood – making you feel better during and after exercise.

“Participants are encouraged to plan ahead, pace yourself, ease into your training program and take it at your own pace,” Dr Bennett said.

As well as doing something good for their own health, participants also have the chance to raise funds for a good cause.

HBA has nominated long-time charity partner Very Special Kids as a principal charity for the HBA Great Australian Run. Very Special Kids supports families throughout their experience of caring for children with life-threatening illnesses, from diagnosis through to recovery or bereavement.

For more information and to secure your entry The HBA Great Australian Run go to www.greataustralianrun.com.au.  A field limit applies so act quickly.