The July event, into it's third year, attracted some of the nation's best runners in its first two years and organisers want it to become a major fixture on the Tasmanian sporting and events calendar.

Announcing the sponsorship, B&E Personal Banking CEO Paul Ranson said his company was delighted to be a part of the event which this year and attracted more than 1800 participants.

“The success of the event to date, clearly demonstrates the appeal of the flat and fast 10km

course to elite athletes and the community alike.

``It’s also great to see that Launceston once again has a major fun run and walk of which we can all be proud,” Mr Ranson said.

Launceston 10 organiser Kim Gillard said that race organisers were thrilled with the sponsorship deal.

“The event is still in its infancy and with B&E’s support we will be able to maximise community participation and boost our ability to attract elite athletes from across the country,” Mr Gillard said.

“We have some ambitious plans for the 2009 race, including introducing a children’s race partnered with a school training program to get kids active and involved in the event.

``Alongside this, we will be seeking to build on the event’s profile with the aim of attracting a record field.”

The 2009 event is scheduled for Sunday, July 19.

B&E Personal Banking is a Tasmanian building society with more than $470 million in assets, 35,000 clients, nine branches statewide and 90 employees. It provides a wide range of financial services.