University of Canterbury Join the 2024 Long Run Corporate Challenge
The Crusaders are fortunate to have a group of dedicated and committed commercial partners. We couldn’t do what we do without them. Together we are the Crusaders whānau.
It’s events like The Long Run that really bring out the best in our whānau. Through our Crusade With Heart Foundation, we’re aiming to raise $100,000 for Child Cancer Foundation by collectively running 100,000 laps of Christchurch’s Rugby and Malvern parks – home to the Crusaders – from 6am to 6pm on Friday 19 January.
Thousands of individuals are expected to turn up, alongside a huge contingent of our commercial partners. This year we launched the Corporate Challenge, tasking our business community with carrying a baton non-stop for 12 hours.
One of our longest-standing partners was one of the first to take up the challenge.
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) has been a partner of the Crusaders since January 2015. They’re our official and exclusive tertiary education partner and an exemplary Canterbury institution who care about their local community. We’re exceptionally proud to be partnered with them.
They jumped on board with The Long Run Corporate Challenge and entered a team as a way to challenge and connect with each other, while also contributing to a worthy cause.
The UC RecCentre, Wellbeing and Event teams worked together to share the message, resulting in various participants, from walkers to experienced runners.
“UC is an institution deeply connected to our community and we’re proud to support an initiative that promotes teamwork, wellbeing and community spirit,” Kaihautū Matua Pūmanawa Tangata | Executive Director of People, Culture and Campus Life Paul O’Flaherty said. “As part of our 150th anniversary last year, our staff volunteered for a day to give back to our community. We continue to commit to creating a positive impact and have chosen to extend our Staff Volunteer Day to further support this cause.”
Colin Mansbridge, Crusaders CEO, said UC’s commitment to The Long Run and to the cause exemplified characteristics the Crusaders value.
“A huge thank you to the University of Canterbury for their active participation in The Long Run this year,” Mansbridge said.
“They are truly crusading with heart in their commitment towards our collective effort raising essential funds for Child Cancer Foundation.”
Alongside UC, other businesses participating in the Corporate Challenge on 19 January include GIB, BNZ Christchurch, Alsco together with Fresh & Clean, The HIRT Lab, Pascals St Albans, Kiwibank Christchurch CBD, Plumbing World, The Connect Group, Peak Sports Performance Centre, and Aotea Electric.