General News
16 May, 2025
Iconic event in peril
THIS year’s iconic Great Pyramid Race could be the last if organisers don’t secure a major sponsor.
In a major blow to the legendary event, Woolworths has decided not to continue its $15,000 naming rights deal for the Gordonvale classic event after three years. The $10,000 half race sponsorship is also not funded.
President and race coordinator Renee Edwards said the 66th event would be held on August 2 but after that it was unlikely, unless at least $15,000 could be secured for the naming rights.
“Next year’s race is in doubt. Previously Woolworths was the main sponsor for the past three years. They approached us three years ago but earlier this year they told us that they would not be continuing,” she said.
“This puts the future of this hugely successful, long running event in doubt.”
A Woolworths spokeswoman said it was “a difficult decision, reflecting the realignment of our sponsorship portfolio” so the supermarket giant would support the broader community.
“Woolworths remains a strong supporter of grassroots sports across the country through various ongoing partnerships and initiatives such as NetSet Go and Cricket Australia,” she said.
“We firmly believe in the positive impact of community involvement in sports and are committed to fostering healthy and active lifestyles at a local level.”
Ms Edwards said the race had been growing every year and brought so much to, not only the southside, but Cairns as well.
“We really need community support and sponsorship to keep our event running past 2025,” she said.
“While we are looking for large sponsors any help would be greatly appreciated and our packages start at $500.”
Ms Edwards said the future was “scary”.
“We can hold this year’s race because we have a surplus but after that we don’t have enough money,” she said.
“It costs $70,000 to put on the race. The entry fees, which have gone up a little bit, only cover 30 per cent.”
Ms Edwards said efforts to engage potential sponsors had been exhausted.
“People just can’t afford $15,000 or $10,000. Most of the other sponsorships are covered. The $5000, $3000, $1500 and so on,” she said.
“We are a not-for-profit. I am the only paid person and it’s not that much – all the rest are volunteers.
“Some people think this is run as a profitable business, but it’s not.
“We are grateful for the regional council’s community grant of $19,500.”
Ms Edwards said organisers were open to negotiating the price of the main sponsorships.
“We did not have a half race sponsor in 2023, 2024. This is a relatively new race and it is harder to secure sponsorship for this race,” she said.
The race is on Saturday, August 2 from Norman Park.
If you can help with sponsorships email Ms Edwards on
admin@pyramidrace.com.au
