Winning wasn't the order of the day at this morning's Darrel Chapman Fun Run, although it was celebrated. Large numbers of people turning up and participating in the 4km, 10km or 21km Half Marathon was the reason for record entries and a record fundraising amount.

A very happy organiser Our Kids Rebekka Battista crowed about the turnout.

"Sure, it's a record day, absolutely. Last year, 750, this year, over 1000, easy."

There were a lot of on-the-day registrations which caused a few problems for Rebekka and her team, as they ran out of bibs and timing anklets. But rather than disappoint another 50 people who got up early to participate, the decision was made to accept the fee and allow everyone to run or walk in whatever category they chose.

"We thought we might get maybe 30 people rock up who haven't registered in the 10k, we got over 50 registered. So, that just blew us away, even though pre- registrations were over 200 anyway. It was just extraordinary. Logistically, there was a bit of a juggling act this morning, but all good. It worked out.

"Actually, it didn't matter; people just got in and had a go. And I just think that's what's so good about this event. It's not just about the elite runners, it's about people setting a goal, walking, running, and being a part of the community."

(The large crowd participating in the 4km Fun Run/Walk. Some participating with their family after running the 10km)

This sentiment was supported by Mayor Steve Krieg, who handed out medals to those who completed the 21km Half Marathon.

"What a turnout, what a great day. We talk about everything that this town's been through over the last couple of years, and one thing that you can't ignore about the Lismore spirit is getting in behind our very own local charity, Our Kids. They do such great work looking after all of our sick kids in our region. It's not just the Lismore-centric organisation, but you know to see thousands of people out here supporting Our Kids just warms the soul. It's such a worthy cause, and we love it.

The Krieg family team was well represented today.

My 15-year-old daughter, who is a mad fitness freak, did the 10k run with her friends. It was their Samson Challenge team that did the 10k. My wife's suffering a bit of a knee injury at the moment, but she's taking the dog for a walk for the 4k and so the whole family's into it. Our 17 year old's running our business. She does it better than I do.

"Not only does the charity have a special place in Lismore's heart, but Chris Ingall, who founded Our Kids, as we all know, put our family up after the flood for close to a year. So the least we can do as a family, is get behind what is a passion of his and support Chris and all the good work that Chris, Beck and Sam do. We would be here regardless of my role in local government.

"It's just amazing to see the thousands of people getting out and about and having a go. "

The pain on some faces turned into huge smiles as people came across the finish line.

As for Our Kids and the money raised?

"There have been groups out there that have been doing fundraising for Our Kids, such as the NAB Community Group, the NAB Corporate Competition and the Lismore Workers Club School Competition. I think we've raised over $10,000 there, so on top of that, I think we may hit $20,000, fingers crossed.

Once again Lismore, take a bow.