As suddenly as it was cancelled in March due to COVID, Launceston’s Balfour Burn has been reignited and in two weeks the Before the Borders Open Balfour Burn will give Tasmanians a chance to stretch their legs and burn some muscle for a good cause.

From 1pm on Sunday October 18, organiser StGiles hopes that close to 1000 Tasmanians will come together and race each other 420m up Launceston’s steepest hill, Balfour Street.

StGiles was forced to cancel the major fundraiser just seven days before it was scheduled on Friday, March 13.

“We were planning to run it again in March 2021 – but we thought people would feel safer and have more fun while Tasmania is still totally COVID-free,’’ StGiles General Manager Profile and Engagement Danielle Blewett said.

`We know it’s ambitious – but we’re good to go and response so far has been awesome.

“It will be a Sunday afternoon Burn – the cafes will be open, Sporties are putting in their grassed area for a front row seat and will be pulling a Balfour Brew.

“It is a family-focused event with first race, prams, followed by dogs and the usual range of 11 divisions for all abilities.’’

Funds raised on the day will go towards StGiles all abilities/all ages Studio Space Theatre Company, which has struggled during COVID-19.

Ms Blewett said the 250 participants who had already registered will be honoured and will be able to collect their racing singlets on the day.

The organisers will implement StGiles robust COVID Safety Management Plan

Registration is live on TryBooking.com, $20 or $25 on the day, and all registrants will receive a free Balfour Burn singlet. https://www.trybooking.com/BGZGH