Cambridge University colleges supporting Chariots of Fire

The Cambridge University colleges have always been an integral part of the Chariots of Fire event, Cambridge’s largest charity relay race. 

The race is inspired by the famous film and in particular the iconic run around Great Trinity Court. The picturesque route takes in the impressive surroundings of King's, Clare and Trinity colleges. 

Charles Hewitson of event sponsors Hewitsons said, “We are very grateful to all three colleges for their continuing support of the event. Each year runners comment that it is such a privilege to be able to run through the beautiful college grounds.” The event is now in its 18th year and nearly 2500 runners are expected to participate in this year’s race, taking place on Sunday 20 September. The teams of 6 are drawn mainly from the local business and academic communities. 

This year there are plenty of college teams entered into the race, including Downing, Fitzwilliam, Kings, Queens’, Pembroke, Churchill, and Wolfson. The teams are a mixture of students and staff members, with Trinity College entering four teams of staff and fellows. Charles continued, “We are delighted that so many colleges have entered into the race already. The event helps to unite town and gown in Cambridge, bringing together the local academic community with the business community in a unique way.” 

The race is being held this year in aid of Cam-mind, a local mental health charity committed to supporting those recovering from conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. “We are so pleased to see so much enthusiasm from college teams in this year’s event,” said Aly Anderson, the Development Manager at Cam-mind. “The sponsorship money raised by the teams at the race will be an enormous boost to Cam-mind and will allow us to progress various projects such as our befriending scheme and our workplace training courses for local employers” 

The races starts at 9.30am from Queens’ Green, with team managers required to register their teams from 7.30am in the registration marquee. Race instructions will be sent out to all team managers in early September. There are still team places available, so if you would like to enter, visit www.chariots-of-fire.co.uk. For further information, contact Hazel Kraus at hazelkraus@hewitsons.com or on 01223 461155.