Local running groups join forces to fundraise for charity.
01 October 2024
After a long-time member of the Running Buddies RunTogether group was diagnosed with breast cancer, the group joined forces with a local England Athletics affiliated running group - Team Balancise RC - to raise money for charity. The 28 day Hill Rep Challenge has shown the strength of the running community, helping to raise an incredible total of over £6,000.
We recently caught up with Ann, one of the Running Buddies group leaders, to learn more about their RunTogether group and how the running community has come together to support the fundraiser.
Running Buddies is a welcoming and inclusive RunTogether group where people of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels can come together to share their passion for running. The club is based in Rushden, Northamptonshire and has a core membership of around 40 people.
Providing support and fundraising
Earlier this year, one of the group’s long-time members, Tracey was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Throughout her chemotherapy treatment, Tracey has been receiving support from Breast Friends Northamptonshire. The charity is run by women who have been through a diagnosis and works to support those who are affected by breast cancer. Tracey’s experience was the inspiration for the fundraiser:
After discussing a few different ideas, the group decided on a 28 Day Hill Rep Challenge: The idea is that people do 30 minutes of hill reps or steps every day for 28 days. If they can't get outside to do it, then do something high intensity that's also difficult.
"We thought one of the most impactful things we could do is possibly raise some money for the people that are helping her."
Providing solidarity and awareness
The challenge allows Running Buddies to show solidarity with Tracey and also raise awareness.
"We know that she's going through something very, very difficult, and she has no choice about that. And what we felt we needed to do was something that was hard for us."
"It's the doorway to enable us to talk to people about what's going on and how to create awareness of these charities that are doing great work."
The fundraiser has been a joint effort led by Running Buddies and a local affiliated club - Team Balancise Running Club.
"We're very lucky round here that our running community is really strong. We all know each other, even if we run with different clubs. It's driven by love and collaboration and teamwork and all of those lovely things that bring a community together."
"The people in our group, we found our tribe and we’ve got each other's backs. And that's what a RunTogether group is all about."
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