The Gold Coast Airport Marathon today confirmed Zespri, the world’s largest marketer of kiwifruit, as the official naming rights sponsor of this year’s 4km and 2km Junior Dash races, to be known as the Zespri Junior Dash.

Gold Coast Airport Marathon CEO Cameron Hart said Zespri’s commitment to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle to children and families aligned perfectly with the event’s children’s races.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Zespri and have another industry leader supporting our internationally recognised marathon in 2016,” Mr Hart said.

“The Zespri Junior Dash motivates children aged between 5 and 14 to engage in physical activity by providing them with an unforgettable experience of running among thousands on an internationally recognised flat, fast and scenic course.

“The youngsters have the rare opportunity to cross the same finish line as some of the best runners in the world in front of a grandstand packed with family, friends and supporters which hopefully will inspire them to continue running for years to come.

“Zespri reflects our value on encouraging children to incorporate physical activity and healthy eating habits into their lives and will be providing Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit for all Zespri Junior Dash finishers to enjoy.”

Zespri Australia Sales Manager Hayden Brewerton said the partnership with the Gold Coast Airport Marathon is an exciting development for the brand and a chance to engage thousands of children with this healthy and nutritious product.

“The Gold Coast Airport Marathon is a world-class international marathon and we’re thrilled to be associated with the event as the naming-rights sponsor of the Zespri Junior Dash,” Hayden said.

“We’re looking forward to showcasing our kiwifruit to all participants at the Gold Coast Airport Marathon and in particular the Zespri Junior Dash entrants. I know they will all enjoy the refreshingly sweet flavour of our Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit.

“Zespri is part of a healthy lifestyle – one Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit has all the vitamin C you need for the day – and we’re proud to be associated with an event like this, which encourages kids to be fit and active.”

The Gold Coast Airport Marathon is supported by the Queensland Government, through Tourism and Events Queensland and is promoted as part of the It’s Live! in Queensland marketing platform.

The Gold Coast Airport Marathon will be held 2 – 3 July 2016. Early bird fees finish Thursday 28 April.

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