APAO fundraising fun: Get in gear

The Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) congress in Kuala Lumpur is not just about work. Attendees also can celebrate the reconvening of the congress after the COVID-19 pandemic by joining in the “We Are Back” Fundraising Run.

The money raised this year will help support the Princess Elizabeth National School for Special Education in Malaysia and APAO Young Ophthalmologist activities.

“Through running, we hope continuously to transmit a message of determination to promote the science and art of ophthalmology among all nations in the region,” the conference organizers said.

Runners have 2 interesting categories in which they can participate (they can choose to enter 1 or both of these events):

The first is the longest distance/run to Kuala Lumpur. This option lets participants start running in their own countries and accumulate their distance from January 25 to February 25.

The second option is a 3-km challenge at the Kuala Lumpur Conference Centre Park from February 22 to 25.

There is also a Bonus Mission in which runners can engage. They can post their photos and videos on the APAO Fundraising Facebook Fan Page. The post receiving the largest number of likes will win a Fitbit Versa 3.

Registration for the event opened on January 25. Participants must be paid delegates of the APAO 2023 Congress, and should complete the online registration form and settle the registration fee ($30 US dollars) through the congress portal.

Those interested in participating in the run can learn more here. The website will provide additional information on uploading runners' mileage and the categories for individuals and team participants.

Prizes

Participants who finish a minimum of a 3K run with track record will receive a certificate/medal, which can be collected at the Fundraising Run counter. Prizes will be awarded in the following categories: young ophthalmologists, ophthalmologists, senior ophthalmologists, and non-ophthalmologists.

Prizes in the various categories include cultural party tickets for the 2023 congress and complimentary registration to the next APAO meeting.