Determined runners will be flying the flag for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) when they pound the streets at the TTP Cambridge Half-Marathon.
Nearly 30 people are lacing up their shoes and raising money for the charity, including staff members and two international participants – one travelling from Germany and an American based at RAF Lakenheath.
Twenty-nine community fundraisers have already raised nearly £12,000 between them, and some of the group recently visited EACH’s Cambridgeshire hospice in Milton.
After being given a tour of the care floor and facilities, including the sensory room and hydrotherapy pool, they were given their running kit and spent time swapping tips and talking about their training and preparation for the big day.
“We’re incredibly proud of everyone taking part,” said Victoria Goldsmith, EACH’s Senior Community Fundraiser for Cambridgeshire and West Essex.
“To have so many people representing our charity is both fantastic and inspiring, and their passion and dedication is second to none.
“I enjoyed meeting everyone and spending time with them. There were so many positive, insightful conversations, and it was fascinating hearing more about their goals and motivation for taking on the challenge.
“Collectively, they’re raising vital funds and awareness which will make such a difference to our work.”
The staff team comprises members from the care floor at Milton.
There will also be a group of corporate fundraisers in action, including a team from Munro Building Services. The Cambridge-based firm are long-time supporters and played a key role in last year’s full renovation and refurbishment of Milton.
“We’re so thankful to the team for choosing to support us,” said Erin Henry, EACH’s Senior Corporate Fundraiser for Cambridge and West Essex.
“Funds raised through challenges of this nature make a real difference to the children and families we support, and we’re deeply grateful for the time, effort and dedication shown by everyone involved.”
There will be two EACH ‘cheer points’ along the route, where staff and volunteers will be cheering on the runners and offering sweets and drinks.
The Cambridge Half Marathon, first run in 2012 and this year taking place on Sunday, 8th March, is regarded as one of the biggest and most beautiful events of its kind in the UK.
It is one of the county’s biggest mass-participation events and the flat, single-loop course took runners on a scenic tour of the city, passing the Round Church, King’s College, Fitzwilliam Museum and The Backs.
