In hot and windy conditions, pupils and teachers lined up to compete against each other in a relay.

The event was held to promote physical education in children and encourage participation in Run Ballarat on October 11.

Mount Pleasant Primary School health and physical education co-ordinator Luke Mirtschin said studies showed there was a link between exercise and academic performance.

“We are trying to use this (relay) as a drive to promote physical education in kids,” Mr Mirtschin said.

He said 28 pupils, staff and school community members had signed up for Run Ballarat. If the school reaches 50, it will receive a $250 voucher to purchase sports equipment.

“We are trying to get as many (people) as we can,” Mr Mirtschin said.

“Run Ballarat is good to get other people involved outside our school.”

Jake Murnane, 10, and his brother Ned Murnane, 8, will participate in the six kilometre event.

Jack said he was looking forward to it.

“I like getting out running and the challenge of running uphill,” Jack said.

All Run Ballarat registration fees are donated to the redevelopment of Ballarat Health Services Base Hospital children’s ward.

Run Ballarat has almost 3000 entrants but people can register right up to race day, October 11. Enter, runaustralia.com.au