Melbourne, 13 April 2022 – AIA Australia has announced that it will again sponsor the Powercor Stawell Gift as the annual prestigious foot race's major partner. The 2022 event will see the inclusion of the inaugural 'AIA Vitality Invitational Women's Handicap 1000m', set to be a highlight of the event which will take place over the Easter long weekend.
One of the world's most famous foot races attracting elite athletes from across Australia and the world, the Powercor Stawell Gift is run on grass and sees athletes handicapped according to form and ability – starting off on different marks and competing for significant fame and prize money.
The AIA Vitality Invitational Women's event is an exciting inclusion in the Powercor Stawell Gift. The unique 1000m distance will see 1500m and 800m specialists going head-to-head for $6,500 in prize money and the title.
AIA Australia, a leading life and health insurer is on a mission to champion Australia to be the healthiest and best protected nation in the world. Its science-backed digital health and wellbeing program, AIA Vitality provides education and access to initiatives for improved health and wellbeing outcomes.
Chief Shared Value and Marketing Officer, Stephanie Phillips said, "AIA is proud to support the Powercor Stawell Gift for the second year running. This prominent running carnival is a landmark event which unites and inspires so many Australians.
“We continue to support and invest in women's sport and are thrilled that this year's Stawell Gift will feature the inaugural AIA Vitality Invitational Women's Handicap. We look forward to witnessing the race which will add to the rich history of the Powercor Stawell Gift, as well as celebrating the achievements of everyone involved," said Ms Phillips.
"We are delighted that AIA Vitality continues to invest in our carnival and use these amazing women to showcase AIA Vitality's vision to make Australia one of the healthiest nations in the world," said Stephanie Spence, Chair of Stawell Gift Event Management.
The confirmed athletes for the AIA Vitality Invitational Women's Handicap include: