Around 800 participants are preparing to take part in a fundraising running event.
The annual OX5 RUN is scheduled for Sunday 22 March at Blenheim Palace. A group warm-up will begin at 10.10am before the main five-mile event gets under way at 10.30am.
Now in its 24th edition, the fundraiser benefits Oxford Hospitals Charity and aims to enhance facilities at Oxford Children’s Hospital for young patients and their families.
Claire Hughes from Oxford Hospitals Charity mentioned that the event appears set to generate more than £100,000, and expressed sincere thanks to all those walking, jogging or completing the five-mile course around the palace grounds.
The predicted sunshine should prove perfect conditions for this much-anticipated occasion. While internet sign-ups have ended, participants can still arrive early on the day to register for the five-mile challenge. Full information is available at www.ox5run.com.
Approximately 800 competitors are anticipated, with over 70 squads signed up, including teams formed by medical personnel, relatives, companions and companies.
Six-year-old Elliot Williamson, who is currently undergoing treatment for leukaemia, will officially begin the event alongside Charlie and Eliza Hammond, both regular attendees at Oxford Children’s Hospital.
Guy Williamson, Elliot’s father, has collected more than £6,700 through individual fundraising efforts. He explained that he is taking part in the OX5 RUN as a way of showing appreciation to the ward that has supported the family following Elliot’s leukaemia diagnosis eight months ago. He described his son’s courage, strength and positive outlook despite everything as deeply moving.
The Hammond family, who have participated annually for the past decade, are once again joining the event to thank the hospital for the treatment their children have received. Six-year-old Charlie and 13-year-old Eliza were both born with an uncommon eye condition that necessitated complex surgery to maintain their vision.
Their mother Lynn Hammond stated that hospital visits frequently remind the family how fortunate they consider themselves. She praised the exceptional level of skill, care and compassion shown by staff, expressing heartfelt gratitude to every individual who has assisted them over the years. She added that this is why the family continues returning year after year.
The Hammond squad comprises 42 members.
Proceeds from the event fund additional play activities, specialised equipment and various enhancements designed to improve comfort for young patients at the hospital.
Although advance registration via the internet has ended, those wishing to take part can still register in person when the event takes place.