RUNNERS are being sought to contest the annual SportzBiz Australian Ekiden Relay in November.The Ballarat Regional Athletics Centre community event encourages sporting, work and social groups to try their luck in the handicapped event where anyone can be a winner.Walkers and casual joggers through to serious and elite runners combine in teams of seven to cover the marathon distance of 42 kilometres.Each team-mate completes a six kilometre circuit around Lake Wendouree, aiming to run as close as possible to their predicted time and previous best time.The most precise team will win the coveted Ballarat City Shield and each team member fitted with new Asics runners.SportzBiz is awarding $50 vouchers to each runner in the fastest team overall and division titles are also up for grabs in the following categories:* government/services;* professional/finance;* manufacturers/retail/hospitality;* sporting/social groups/womens teams; and,* senior secondary schoolsPrimary and middle school teams can run a modified event in teams of 14 runners, each completing a three-kilometre leg.The Australian Ekiden Relay has been conducted in its current format since 1987 and raises money for the upkeep of BRAC's Llanberris athletics track.Entry forms for the November 2 event can be picked up SportzBiz, the YMCA and most Ballarat gyms or look online at www.sportzbiz.com.au.Register by October 24 to avoid a late fee of $45.*Need extra motivation and coaching? Olympic marathon runner Steve Moneghetti has prepared a weekly guide for recreational runners to get in shape for the Ekiden. Work through the step-by-step program, starting Monday, to make sure you are ready.Check out The Courier each Saturday for Steve's weekly program.