At the centre of the Mother’s Day Classic are the people who show up each year. Each with their own story, their own reason, and their own connection to the cause.
For CEO Zara Lawless, the day captures a unique mix of emotions that defines the event. “It is a beautiful day. It’s full of hope and joy and sometimes that sits along sorrow and grief.”
That balance is felt across every start line and finish line. A shared experience that brings thousands together in support of those impacted by breast and ovarian cancer.
For ambassador Emma Radawicz, her involvement is deeply personal. “I did not think breast cancer applied to me, as a young woman.”
Emma signed up for the Mother’s Day Classic just three months after being diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer. A powerful testament to her resilience and determination.
For her, the most meaningful moments come at the finish line. “My favourite thing to do is see all the smiles as everyone’s crossing that finish line.”
In Melbourne’s west, Lauren Philpot leads the Maribyrnong event in honour of her mum, Leigh, who passed away in 2023. Her commitment is driven by a promise they made together. “My Mum and I held a promise with each other and that was to fight for zero deaths caused by breast cancer by 2030 and I continue every day to fight for that.”
That promise is carried forward not just by Lauren, but by an entire community. In 2025, the Maribyrnong event raised just short of $53,000. “Knowing that we have all of my Mum’s friends and family and everyone that loved her and love us as well supporting and walking in solidarity with us, it means the world.”
It’s this sense of unity that defines the Mother’s Day Classic. As Emma puts it:
“We’re stronger together when we’re fighting breast and ovarian cancer.”
A Mother’s Day tradition in Melbourne since 1998, the event has grown to more than 90 locations across Australia, all working towards the same goal to stop breast and ovarian cancer in their tracks.
Join us this Mother’s Day, Sunday 10 May.
