The annual Team La Trobe Walk and Fun Run event brought hundreds of students and staff from La Trobe University’s Melbourne and Bendigo campuses together, resulting in a burst of activity across the respective campuses.
Facilitated by La Trobe Sport and supported by Medibank, more than 400 participants took part across the respective campus events. While the majority of participants used the event as an opportunity to get active and connect with classmates and colleagues, some were there to win, with La Trobe student Bastian Luthmann registering a record-breaking time of 15:52 for the five-kilometer Melbourne Campus course.
Both Team La Trobe Walk and Fun Run events serve as the cornerstone for La Trobe’s Moving for Mental Health campaign which aims to raise awareness and funds for the R U OK? Foundation.
La Trobe Sport Sales and Promotions Officer David Chadzynski said the goal of the event was to focus on people’s general health and wellbeing and to improve their daily lives, rather than just encouraging participation.
“The event offers a platform for individuals to set personal goals and strive toward them in a supportive environment,” Chadzynski said.
“This event not only highlights the importance of exercise and movement for mental health, but it also nurtures a sense of belonging, reinforcing the idea that meaningful connections can make a huge difference in someone’s mental health journey.
“This event goes beyond physical fitness; it fosters social connection, which is vital for both mental and physical well-being, and encourages participants to ask the important question — R U OK?”
In addition to the respective walk and run activities, participants also enjoyed the Team La Trobe Relax and Recovery Zone where everyone got the chance to pick up their prize packs, enjoy lunch, refreshments and even a massage after the event.
Chadzynski said the success of this event will hopefully solidify its place on the university calendar for years to come.
To view a gallery of images and videos from each of the Melbourne and Bendigo campus Team La Trobe Walk & Fun Run events, visit La Trobe Sport Active Recreation on Facebook or Instagram.
For more information on how you may participate in community events as a member of Team La Trobe, visit the La Trobe Sport website.
