The fifth year of The Long Run. Our biggest goal yet.

The Crusaders are calling on our community to lace up and be part of the biggest Long Run yet, with an ambitious goal to raise $500,000 for Child Cancer Foundation and complete 100,000 laps at Malvern Park on Friday 22 January 2027. 

Registrations for our 2027 event are now open! 

Now entering its fifth year, The Long Run has grown from a simple idea into one of the Crusaders' most meaningful community initiatives. Since its inception, the event has brought together thousands of people in support of children and families facing childhood cancer, while raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for Child Cancer Foundation.

In 2027, participants will help The Long Run reach a significant milestone, with fundraising efforts set to surpass $1 million raised for Child Cancer Foundation since the event began. 

The driving force and instigator behind the Long Run Aaron "Webby" Webb says the event's success has always been built on the willingness of people to come together for something bigger than themselves. 

"Five years ago, The Long Run started with a simple idea: to bring people together to support Kiwi kids facing childhood cancer and the families walking alongside them. What has happened since has been incredible and really humbling for our organisation to be a part of. 

"Every year we've seen people give their time, energy and generosity to make a difference. To think that this year's event could help us raise more than $1 million for Child Cancer Foundation since we started is something we're really proud of." 

Aotea Virtual Challenge 

This year to help reach a very big goal, The Long Run is encouraging participation from across the country through an expanded Aotea Virtual Challenge, making it easier than ever for people to get involved regardless of where they live. 

You don't need to be in Christchurch. You don't even need to be a Crusaders fan. 

"The goal is bigger than ever, but so is the opportunity. Whether you walk one lap or one hundred, every kilometre, every donation and every conversation helps support children and families who need it most," says Webby. 

Whether you're in Canterbury, Kaitaia, Invercargill or anywhere in between, every kilometre completed can contribute towards the collective goal. Participants can run, walk, bike, hike, use a treadmill or simply set a personal challenge and log their kilometres from wherever they are. 

One kilometre equals one lap. 

Whether you’re getting involved virtually or here with us at Malvern Park, participants can take part individually, with friends and whānau, or as part of a workplace, sports club, school or community group, helping drive The Long Run towards its goals of 100,000 laps and $500,000 raised. 

Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge says The Long Run continues to demonstrate the power sport has to unite people behind an important cause. 

"The Long Run has always been about community. Every year we're inspired by the people who turn up, challenge themselves and get behind the Child Cancer Foundation." 

"Reaching our fifth event is a significant milestone, but we're not slowing down. We're aiming higher than ever before and inviting all New Zealanders to be part of the journey. This is about people feeling like they belong and are one of us – they're giving up their time for others who really need it, and that’s what we do here at the Crusaders – We before Me.” 

The Long Run 2027 will take place on Friday 22 January 2027, with registrations now open. 

To register, donate or find out more, visit: HERE.