The third running of the event has had a couple of rain-soaked years, but Sunday’s third installment dodged the stormy conditions of Saturday.

Race director Debbie McGufficke said there were around 160-170 entrants across the various fun run categories.

That was about the same number as last year, but of particular note was an increased number of local competitors, McGufficke said.

She put that down to the increasing interest in the local Parkrun program at both Bega and Merimbula, as well as the organising group, Sapphire Coast Runners, “getting out and about in the community a lot more”.

Highlighting the strength of the Bega contingent, the men’s 5km event was an all-hometown podium.

Russell Dessaix-Chin placed first in 15minutes 57seconds, not far ahead of Zac Swan (18m05s) and Jim Campbell (20m54s).

“Russell holds the 5km record at Parkrun,” McGufficke said.

“This was not his fastest, but in his defence he was running injured and still blitzed it!

“All three 5km winners are Bega boys and have come up through the Parkrun program,” she said.

"Zac in particular has been working hard this year improving his times.”

In the women’s 5km event, Brenna Clayton (21m40s) was first ahead of Sarah Matthews (22m12s) and Elizabeth Simpson (24m28s).

Goulburn visitor Jonathan Moore won the open male 10km in an impressive 36m40s, with Peter Dickson (41m57s) and Stuart Cook (43m02s) not far behind.

Medals in the open women 10km went to Kelli Griffin (46m22s), Lisa Lukassen (47m30s) and Hanna Marshall (47m55s).

Juniors were well represented on the day as well, with the 5km wins to Jack Caldwell in 18m53s and Brooke Smith in 22m57.

There were also team awards given out on the day with the Bega Swimming Club scoring both the 5km win as well as largest team. Run Sweat Then Beers claimed top honours in the 10km event and KO Fitness was best dressed.

McGufficke said the children’s 2km dash had “the most number of entrants ever” with around 35-40 kids and plenty of parents alongside tearing along the track.

“It was fantastic to see the kids and families out there enjoying themselves – they were just gorgeous.”

McGufficke thanked all the Bega Fun Run sponsors for their support and the indispensable volunteers for making the event possible.

She also thanked everyone who donated towards the local Rural Fire Service brigades on the day, with around $300 raised.

For plenty more photos from the day, visit the Bega Fun Run Facebook page and Steve Gordon Images.