IMG Partners Kieser To Become Title Partner Of Great Ocean Road Running Festival

IMG has signed a new agreement with international physiotherapy, rehabilitation and strength training company Kieser to become the title sponsor of its Great Ocean Road Running Festival, which is set to reunite runners in Victoria, Australia on 15 – 16 May 2021.

The Kieser Great Ocean Road Running Festival 2021 will also welcome continued support from the Victorian Government’s Regional Events Fund to drive visitation to the surf coast region, which leads to ongoing positive economic impact for some of Victoria’s hardest hit regional tourism operators and local businesses. More than just a running event, the festival offers a great opportunity for families and groups of friends to experience the natural beauty and attractions of the region alongside the challenge of the race, with many extending their stay.

The annual event was impacted by COVID-19 in 2020, but still saw thousands of runners from around the globe participate in two virtual race events staged by IMG in May and August.

“Participation in the event has been growing each year, with runners especially responding to the challenging course and extraordinary views that only the Great Ocean Road can offer,” said Brad King, Event Director at IMG. “We are confident we will see strong numbers for 2021 after a year off as Australian’s take advantage of the incredible events and experiences on offer in their own back yard.”

The running festival offers something for everyone with seven different running or walking events across Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 May 2021, from a 60km Ultra Marathon to a 1.5km Kids Gallop and everything in between. Runners are challenged along the elevated coastline courses between Lorne and Apollo Bay, accompanied by the oceanic scenes, scents and sounds that make it all the more spectacular.

Kieser Australia CEO, Brett Long said supporting an active community is a core belief of the company which operates a network of integrated physiotherapy, rehabilitation and strength training clinics across the country.

“In 2020 we were all reminded how important our health is, so to be supporting a sport like running is a great opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to keeping our community healthy,” he commented.

Whether an experienced runner or a novice exploring the sport, Kieser’s leading scientific expertise will keep participants running by both treating and preventing injuries through their unique combination of physiotherapy and strength training.

“Research tells us every Australian will be healthier through strength training – including runners who will reduce their overuse injuries by 50 percent through the right program. We see all types of runners every day at our clinics and are looking forward to supporting recreational runners and elite athletes involved in the Kieser Great Ocean Road Running Festival.”