South Canterbury to Host First Run the Runway Event at Airport

Ben Williams, a flight instructor at the South Canterbury Aero Club, is preparing for an exciting new event that invites the community to experience the Richard Pearse Airport in a unique way. On October 18, 2023, residents of South Canterbury will have the opportunity to run or walk along the airport’s main runway, a distance of 1.28 kilometers.

The event, titled **Timaru Run the Runway**, aims to cater to runners and walkers of all abilities. Participants can complete a loop of the runway while enjoying various activities, including a static aircraft display, a barbecue, and a raffle. The fundraiser is designed to support the Aero Club’s efforts in acquiring a new training aircraft, addressing rising costs in flight training.

According to Williams, the need for a new aircraft is pressing. “The cost of flight training and just flying in general has increased a lot over the last few years,” he explained. He noted that a newer aircraft would result in lower fuel consumption and reduced maintenance requirements, ultimately making flying more affordable for students and club members.

Event Details and Community Support

The concept for the event originated from Williams’ partner, who suggested the idea. Williams took it upon himself to develop the plan, ensuring that safety and regulations were prioritized. He collaborated with the local council, which owns the airport, to receive the necessary approvals for the event.

“This will be the first time an event like this has happened at the Richard Pearse Airport,” Williams mentioned. The event will start at the Aero Club, with participants walking past the terminal onto the main concrete runway, which will be lit for the occasion. The loop will measure approximately 3.3 kilometers, allowing participants the option to complete additional laps if desired.

Williams confirmed that organizing the event has been relatively straightforward. With no scheduled Air New Zealand flights for the evening, the airport will notify local pilots about the temporary closure to ensure safety. Provisions will also be made for any air ambulance flights that may be required for patient transfers.

Tickets and Community Engagement

Tickets for the Timaru Run the Runway event are currently available for purchase on the South Canterbury Aero Club website. The barbecue and aircraft display will commence at 17:00, while the run and walk are set to begin at 18:30.

The event is expected to foster community spirit and provide a fun and engaging atmosphere for all participants. As the South Canterbury region prepares for this inaugural event, local residents are encouraged to join in and support their local flight training initiatives.