West Coast favourites Mark LeCras and Matt Priddis today joined club physiotherapist Chris Perkin to launch the annual Sunshine Beach Run.

Now in its third year, the charity event is dedicated to anyone who has been affected by the loss of a child and aims to raise funds and awareness for SIDS and Kids WA.

As first-time fathers, both LeCras and Priddis have developed a new appreciation for the work of SIDS and Kids WA in both preventing infant mortality and supporting bereaved families.

They are also eager to throw their support behind Perkin who founded the beach run after the tragic loss of his stillborn baby Jake and wife Cindy in 2009.

LeCras said that the birth of his daughter Molly had brought the issue a lot closer to home.

“I know a lot more about it now after having a baby,” LeCras said.

“It’s a very important issue and we’ll do anything to help raise awareness and educate people.

“Tex has obviously been through quite a bit and he’s a great mate of mine and the West Coast family, so we’re just happy to be part of it.

“He’s helped set up a great event and it’s a great family day out, so I’d encourage anyone who wants to get their family down to the beach and have a really good day to come down here.

“There’s going to be a fair bit of live entertainment, all the boys will be down here, there are plenty of different events, so come down and make the most of it.”

The SIDS and Kids WA 2014 Sunshine Beach Run will take place on Sunday, March 16 at City Beach.

For further details, visit www.sunshinebeachrun.com.au.

Matt Priddis and his daughter Nala teamed up with Mark LeCras and little Molly to help launch the Sunshine Beach Run