A little bit of rain didn’t stop the parade of dedicated fundraisers doing a lap of Old Bega Racecourse on Saturday morning.
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The group raised money and awareness for the Heart Foundation, selling raffle tickets, setting up collection tins and selling food and drinks at the event.
Representives from SPAN and the Disability Trust joined in the activities, which included a special visit from Trusty the turtle.
Other fun included face painting, a jumping castle and a tasty selection of food from the barbecue.
The Walkathon was organised by Nicole Constable and Paul Zeller. Both were born with heart conditions and wanted to give back to the Heart Foundation.
“I think there should be more events for heart health, it can get overlooked compared to others,” Mr Zeller said.
“There’s no ice bucket challenge for the Heart Foundation.”
Mr Zeller had his first heart operation when he was just one day old. His last operation in 2015 was for his rapid heartbeat cased by Wolff Parkinson White Syndrome.
Since his operation, Mr Zeller has been able to play Aussie Rules football, something he has missed out on for most of his life.
Mr Zeller and Ms Constable are united by their love of sport. Ms Constable has played soccer for most of her life, reaching competition level.
“If I didn’t keep playing soccer, my heart would not be as strong as it is at the moment,” she said.
“It’s important for both of us to keep active for our health so we don’t develop problems in the future.”
Ms Constable is undergoing heart surgery in about two years time.
She said supporting the Heart Foundation was important to her future and everyone else who is living with a heart condition.