- Prize money of $50,000 up for grabs
- More than 200 runners to compete
- Supported by Eventscorp's Regional Events Scheme, jointly funded through Royalties for Regions
A 200-strong field of athletes from across Australia will compete in the ninth annual Leonora Golden Gift this long weekend with a total prize pool of $50,000 up for grabs.
Tourism Minister Kim Hames said two members of Australia's Olympic team would take part in the event in the lead-up to the Olympic Games in London in July.
"Prize money of $6,000 plus a gold ingot are on offer in the carnival's main attraction - a 1,600m sprint along the bitumen of Leonora's main street - making it Australia's richest mile race," Dr Hames said.
"All eyes will be on Jeff Riseley - Australian 1,500m champion and the nation's second fastest runner over 800m - after his recent selection for the London Olympics.
"Also chosen for the London Olympics and vying for the gift this weekend is Kaila McKnight Australia's current women's 1,500m champion."
The race is supported by a weekend-long festival which will feature a free community concert with Australian music legends the Choirboys and James Reyne, plus a horseracing carnival, fireworks, market stalls and street performances.
"The State Government is proud to sponsor this event through Eventscorp's Regional Events Scheme which is jointly funded by Royalties for Regions, and we know the community will continue to benefit from this event."
Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the Leonora Golden Gift was one of many exciting local events happening throughout the State thanks to the funding contribution from Royalties for Regions.
"Regional towns throughout Western Australia will continue to benefit socially and economically from the Government's commitment of $40million over four years to events and that is a very positive outcome for regional development," Mr Grylls said.
Fact File
- The Leonora Golden Gift will be held June 2-4, 2012
- More than 2,500 spectators expected to attend
- Community breakfast will be held in the historic precinct of Gwalia a few kilometres south of Leonora
- For more information, visit: http://www.leonoragoldengift.com
Minister's office - 6552 5300
