Rain hail or shine, we’re ready for the Long Run!

Thursday 22nd Jan, 1pm update

We are monitoring the wet weather closely and can confirm the Long Run is still going ahead as planned! 

The event will still start at 6am. Once underway, the course will be assessed every 30 minutes, and we will keep participants informed of any changes. If conditions deteriorate, we may reduce the event to walking only to ensure everyone’s safety. 

While we are committed to doing everything we can to keep this event going in support of the Child Cancer Foundation, the safety of our participants and maintaining a safe track will always be our top priority. 

Please keep an eye on event announcements through event emails and official Crusaders channels and follow instructions from event staff on the day.  

Every day, hundreds of Kiwi kids show incredible courage in their fight against cancer. If they can face that challenge, we can certainly embrace a few raindrops. The Long Run is about resilience and showing those families going through the unimaginable we are there for them no matter what. Let’s show them our support tomorrow and keep moving forward no matter the weather.  

Bib Collection 

Bib pick up on Malvern Park will still go ahead tonight between 4pm – 7pm as planned however we will not be allowing vehicles on Malvern this evening so please park on the surrounding streets and walk onto the park.  

A reminder of how you can best prepare for the event: 

Weather Conditions  

• Wear appropriate footwear with good grip for wet surfaces 

• Expect slippery conditions, especially on corners 

• Run within your limits and adjust your pace as needed 

• Follow all marshal & MC instructions and any signage on course 

• Be alert to other runners, especially in narrow or wet sections 

Clothing & Personal Preparation 

• Dress for wet conditions (lightweight, moisture-wicking layers) 

• Bring a dry change of clothes for after you finish  

• Use waterproof bags to protect personal belongings – we have a bag drop onsite available next to the registration tent 

• Consider wearing a cap or visor to improve visibility in rain 

• Allow extra time for arrival and warm-up 

• If you feel unsafe or unwell at any time, stop and seek assistance from event staff 

Track Safety  

• Any areas affected by water, mud, or reduced traction will be treated, adjusted and or clearly marked 

• If conditions change, delays, or cancellations may be necessary during the day to ensure safety 

• Official updates will be communicated via email and Crusaders social media channels (Facebook, Instagram & LinkedIn) 

We thank you your patience and understanding as we prioritise safety while delivering the best possible event in wet weather. 

Your ongoing support for this event while we navigate some challenging weather conditions means a lot.  

What matters most is the cause we are running for, and the connections that will be made with each other tomorrow. So, let’s not lose sight of the reason why we’re all here, and use that as motivation tomorrow – rain, hail or shine! 

 
Thank you for being part of The Long Run for 2026. See you tomorrow! 

Tuesday 20th January update

As we countdown to our annual Long Run event, we wanted to share some important information with you all.

With wet weather forecast in the lead-up to and on event day this Friday, we're here to help you prepare and reassure you that participant safety is our top priority. 

If hundreds of Kiwi kids can find the courage to fight cancer every day, we can handle a little rain together. The Long Run is about resilience and community, and that spirit doesn’t stop for showers. 

At this stage, the event will go ahead. Our team is monitoring conditions closely and will continue to assess the track before and during the event. If anything changes, we’ll act quickly to keep everyone safe. 

There’s no postponement date, but in the unlikely event of cancellation, you’ll hear from us by 4pm Thursday, 22 January. 

How to prepare for wet conditions: 

• Wear footwear with good grip for wet surfaces 

• Expect corners to be slippery and adjust your pace as needed 

• Follow marshal and MC instructions, and keep an eye on signage 

• Stay alert to other runners, especially in narrow or wet sections 

Clothing & gear tips: 

• Dress in lightweight, moisture-wicking layers 

• Bring a dry change of clothes for after your run 

• Use waterproof bags for personal items – bag drop available by the registration tent 

• A cap or visor can help with visibility in rain 

• Allow extra time for arrival and warm-up 

• If you feel unsafe or unwell at any point, please stop and seek help from event staff. 

Track safety: 

We’ll inspect the course in the days before and again on Friday morning. Any areas affected by water or mud will be treated or clearly marked. If conditions change, we may adjust the course or delay the start to ensure safety. 

Official updates will be shared via email and Crusaders social channels (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn). 

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to deliver a safe and enjoyable event, even in wet conditions.   

Thank you for being part of The Long Run. Rain or shine, we can’t wait to see you at the start line – because together, we’re running for something bigger than ourselves, and we’re not going to let the weather stop us.