Run 76 is back next weekend, with a big day of running, raffles, music, and community spirit to support men's mental health.

The event was started two years ago, by Waitaki Boys’ High School 2023 head boy Ben O'Sullivan and was originally called Run 72.

"That comes from the fact that 72% of suicides in New Zealand were men," says this year's head boy Lachlan Wright.

"Unfortunately, that rate's increased, so it's Run 76 now."

Next Saturday (September 6). teams of up to ten people will take to the school's three-kilometre cross-country course in a relay-style run, with one member of each team on the track at all times, for 11 hours.

Entry costs $10 per team member or $15 just to have a go.

Prizes for most laps, fastest laps, best dressed and best fundraising effort are up for grabs.

The boys have organised it themselves with funds going to Mental Health Foundation, I am Hope and Youthline Otago.

"We have a committee in school that does it," Lachlan explains, "with help from the school office staff and the health and safety coordinator at school.”

The boys made an Instagram page, designed and posted flyers, sent out emails and visited local businesses for support.

"All the RAMS [Risk Assessment and Management Systems] form's sorted and all that jazz... a lot of effort goes into these kind of things.

"We're trying to create quite a community."

A community uniting for men's mental health. Photo: Supplied.

As well as the running prizes, there are raffles throughout the day, food trucks, a community BBQ, games including volleyball, big chess and mini-challenges, live music and speakers.

"Our speakers include a mental health coach from I Am Hope and a representative talking about Gumboot Friday," Lachlan explains.

"And a few bands from Waitaki Boys' and Girls' that put their hands up for the last hour or two to keep people's spirits up.”

In previous years, the run has continued overnight. but this year it will take place between 7am and 6pm due to health and safety issues, Lachlan says.

"Because you have to start thinking about parents and teachers who've had health and safety training [being] there at all times, a bunch more procedures and the course goes nearish to the foreshore."

The organisers are hoping for about 150 running participants and more coming out to enjoy the day.

If the weather turns, pavilions and tents will be on hand with the cricket pavilion for music and announcements.

SnapFitness, Drummond & Etheridge, Campbell's Butchery, Mitre10 Mega, Rainbow Confectionery and The Business Hive have donated prizes and LuxLoos has donated toilet facilities.

People who'd like to get involved are welcome and still have time to get in touch.

Enter a team via the event’s Facebook page (entries officially close this Saturday (August 30), although late entries may be considered), contact Lachlan to offer prizes or simply come along on the day to enjoy the atmosphere, buy raffle tickets and show your support.