Participants of all ages eagerly awaiting a return to fun run events are snapping up discounted early bird entries for Sun Run 2022.

Held on Saturday 5 February 2022, the Sun Run will be one of the first major running events since state-wide lockdowns began.

Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said discounted early bird entries were closing on 9 December and encouraged runners not to miss out.

“After months of lockdown and cancellations of other major running events, we know so many new and seasoned runners are eager to get out and enjoy themselves,” Mayor Regan said.

“With capacity restrictions in place, participants are encouraged to enter early. Don’t miss out on your place in one of the most picturesque fun runs in our state.”

Noel Deakin, 55 years old from Kellyville, has run in every event since the first Sun Run in 2011.

“It’s become a tradition for my wife and I. We run to Manly and then walk back to Dee Why afterwards for a nice breakfast,” Mr Deakin said.

“It’s as much a social event as it is a running event. I do a fair few running events throughout the year, but the Sun Run is one of the most picturesque. One of the main reasons why it’s so appealing is because it’s on the coastal edge.

“It was pretty tough being unable to compete in running events during lockdown and I was certainly less motivated, so I’m very eager to get back out running again and I look forward to the Sun Run.”

Nicola Kerr, 38 years old, will participate in her very first Sun Run. The local mum from Dee Why took up running during lockdown.

“I hate running, but it became a late-night-lockdown mental health saviour that got me out of house, alone, after intense days of work and small child rearing. Now the habit seems to have stuck,” Ms Kerr said.

“I run like Phoebe from Friends so lockdown was great because no one could see me. I’ve kept it going as I love the space in my mind it gives me to think. I thought I should have a goal to work towards to keep me going post-lockdown, so that’s why I’ve signed up for the Sun Run.”

The 7km and 10km courses follow the stunning coastline from Dee Why to Manly. It’s a fun day out for the whole family, with kids under 5 running for free. Participants are also encouraged to raise funds for a cause close to their heart.

In line with announced easing of restrictions in the NSW Roadmap, Northern Beaches Council is planning to deliver a range of events over the summer period that will encourage residents and visitors to come together safely in our open spaces.

Discounted early bird entries offer participants a $20 saving on their entry fee up until 9 December. With capacity restrictions in place, participants are encouraged to enter early.

For more information or to enter visit sunrun.com.au