The Grand Appeal launches new virtual running event

The Grand Appeal launches new virtual running event

Posted on: 18 Sep 2020

Get on your feet to support patients at the Bristol Children's Hospital.

 

The Grand Appeal has launched a brand-new fundraising event this week, encouraging supporters to lace up their trainers and get running to raise vital funds for children and young people battling life-threatening illnesses.

 

From Sunday 27 September, the day that would have seen thousands of people compete in the Bristol Half Marathon, the charity will be encouraging runners, joggers, walkers, athletes and families of all ages to run 1.3, 3.1 or 13.1 miles within a two-month period.

 

Suggested routes will take participants through the city centre as well as a range of communities across Bristol. Money raised by The Grand Run will be pivotal in The Grand Appeal's ability to continue supporting Bristol Children's Hospital.

 

 

With so many people getting into running during lockdown across Bristol and beyond, there's never been a better time to take part in a great fundraiser and ensure all that training and practice is put to good use. 

 

Established in 1995 by Aardman Animations, The Grand Appeal funds ground-breaking medical equipment, three family accommodation houses, 20 specialist support staff and a programme of art, music and play to support patients at Bristol Children's Hospital.

 

This year, the charity has continued to provide its services to support staff, families and patients throughout lockdown and amid the ongoing difficulties posed by the coronavirus crisis.

 

These services include providing family accommodation to parents while alternative living arrangements have been hard to come by, and funding groundbreaking research into the natural history of COVID-19.

The Grand Appeal launch The Grand Run.

Speaking on the announcement of this year's Grand Run, The Grand Appeal's Senior Events Co-ordinator, Nathan Fuller, said: “So many people across the city took up running or increased their training during lockdown as part of their daily exercise.

 

"Now, the time has come to harness all that hard work and make a difference by participating in The Grand Run.

 

"We are asking you, the people of Bristol and beyond, to lace up your running shoes and make your miles matter for sick babies and children who need our support now. The date, distance, speed and how much you raise is up to you.”

 

Entry costs £15 per person, and participants will receive a t-shirt, posters, stickers, suggested running routes and access to dedicated Spotify playlists. 

 

For every adult that enters, a free child's place can be claimed, which includes a kid's t-shirt and a set of Wallace & Gromit activity sheets. 

 

On completion of the challenge, and with a minimum of £25 raised, runners will be awarded with a specially-designed Grand Run medal and a certificate.

 

For more information on The Grand Appeal, or to sign up to The Grand Run, head to the charity's website.

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Article by:

Matt Robson

 

Editor - 365Bristol.com & LOUD Magazine
 

Matt is a Journalism graduate and writer, passionate about supporting Bristol music, art and independent business. Get in touch via email at matt@365bristol.com.