Teams limber up for charity relay race

With less than five weeks to go now until Cambridge’s largest annual charity relay race takes place, teams are taking to the streets to train for the challenge ahead.

Team entries are still pouring in for Chariots of Fire 2008 and the remaining places are being snapped up quickly. The event takes place on Sunday 21 September from Queens’ Green in Cambridge. The race route includes a scenic tour through the town centre and Cambridge colleges, before ending up on Queens’ Green for the finish in front of the cheering crowds. 

Romsey Mill and Red Balloon – Cambridge are the two charities who have been chosen to benefit from the funds raised. The event is organised by Hewitsons and Grant Thornton UK LLP and is backed by the News and organisers are aiming for record sponsorship totals this year. Romsey Mill is a charity that creates opportunities for marginalised young people and families in Cambridge. Similarly, Red Balloon – Cambridge offers help and support to youngsters who have been marginalised by extreme bullying. Both charities aim to re-build self-esteem, confidence and teach new skills. 

Charles Hewitson, Race Director and Senior Partner at Hewitsons said, “With so many members of the local community getting involved in the event this year, it is a great opportunity to raise lots of money that is urgently needed for both charities”. Charles continued, “We are grateful for the continuing support of Trinity, Clare and Kings colleges in allowing the teams to run through the grounds once again this year. I have taken part in the race for a number of years and being able to run through the colleges adds a special dimension to the event as well as a link back to the film on which it is based”. 

Mike Hughes, Partner at Grant Thornton said, “We would encourage teams to take advantage of the summer weather and get outdoors and train for the race. Teams are made up of six runners who each run the 1.7 mile course in relay format. There is usually quite a mixture of abilities on the course, with some people running the race for fun and others providing some serious competition, so training in advance can prove an advantage!” 

The Chariots of Fire race route is available to download from the website. Please visit www.chariots-of-fire.co.uk for further information on how to enter the race and the latest event news. Photo: A shot of the scenic race route at last year’s event.