For the past five years, Terrance Thiel has donned a fun costume for every Sun Run just to bring some cheer to one of Sydney’s favourite running events.

From bright yellow suns to purple unicorns, Terrance’s costumes have delighted fellow runners and spectators.

“I am not much of a runner, I am not fast, I have a bit of extra cushion and I have never really liked running. But I want to keep active and participate in these events with my partner. So, what does a bigger, slower guy do to increase the fun of the experience? He wears a costume,” Terrance said. 

“Although they can be a sauna in the Australian sun, the kids and spectators, as well as my fellow runners, get a real kick out of them. It’s worth the blisters to see kids smiling, laughing and screaming ‘go purple unicorn’ to cheer us on.

“I also hope that when people see these costumes, that they think ‘if a pink elephant can run this, why can't I?" to bring more people to do something fun, healthy and raise some money for charity.”

This will be the sixth Sun Run for Terrance and his partner Esther Coulson, who are raising funds for Foodbank. The former Freshwater residents now reside on the Central Coast but that hasn’t stopped them from making the “pilgrimage” back to their favourite fun run.

While Terrance is remaining tight-lipped on what his costume will be this year, past costumes have included a purple unicorn, gecko, pick elephant and a bright yellow sun. 

“The costume for this year is a surprise. Although I don't want to give it away, I hope that no one tries to put me back in the sea, where my costume would typically belong,” he said.

Held on Saturday 5 February 2022, the Sun Run is a fun day out for the whole family, with kids under 5 running for free. The 7km and 10km courses follow the stunning coastline from Dee Why to Manly.

Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said he was impressed with the number of people who had already registered for this year’s event.

“Whether you’re a costumed participant just here for a fun time or a seasoned athlete trying to break your personal best, we look forward to welcoming you to Sun Run 2022,” Mayor Regan said.

“I can’t wait to cheer you on as you enjoy the spectacular, picturesque course from Dee Why to Manly Beach – it doesn’t get any better than this.

“I know many runners are raising funds for some very worthy charities and I applaud them for their amazing fundraising efforts.”

Sun Run has raised over $22,000 already, with two weeks to go until event day. The top five charities raising the most funds so far are the Northern Beaches Women’s Shelter, Breast Cancer Network Australia, Dementia Australia, Cancer Council NSW and the Heart Foundation.

There are a number of COVID-19 safety measures in place for this year’s event, including multiple start times with smaller groups of runners in each starting group.  

For more information or to enter visit sunrun.com.au