The girl, now six years old, has managed the disease with an insulin pump ever since, and Woyecha, a champion runner, hopes The Canberra Times Fun Run can contribute to finding a cure instead.

''It was really, really shocking - we didn't settle down for six months, we were like, 'How did this come [about]?''' he said.

''The reason I'm doing the fun run is for my daughter and diabetic care, for research - we hope maybe in a short time we are cured of this disease.''

Woyecha has never left Australia after representing Qatar in the marathon at the Sydney Olympics, seeking asylum soon after the Games ended.

He has become one of the fun run's most successful runners, and on Sunday will seek to defend his 2012 title and record his fourth victory in the 10-kilometre dash.

The Ethiopian-born runner earns a living as a pasta maker with Rob de Castella's Deeks Bakery and finds the 10-kilometre run from 8.30am to be a breeze after his regular 3am and 4am starts.

Woyecha said his employer had been a positive mentor, and encouraged others to enjoy the benefits of sport.

''If you have these people around, it's good for Australian runners - he provides great support. If you come to any sport, it's the best medicine you can ever have - good diet, lots of exercise and a decrease of stress.''

Records have already been broken for this year's fun run, with more than $90,000 raised for 195 charities, including the Heart Foundation.

Race director Rebecca Wilmer said more than 5000 people had already registered.

''While the adidas five-kilometre run and walk has reached capacity, entries remain open until noon on Saturday for the 10-kilometre fun run and 14-kilometre Capital Run events,'' Ms Wilmer said.

■ To enter or for more details, visit canberratimesfunrun.com.au.