Registrations are open for the most festive, run of the year. The Boxing Day Fun Run, which starts from the Devil’s Punchbowl Hotel in Hindhead at 11am on 26 December, is a 3.5-mile charity fun run in aid of Holy Cross Hospital and attracts hundreds of runners every year. To register, visit www.boxingdayrun.org.
Race organiser Matt Dellar says: “The Boxing Day Fun Run is a charity run with a difference. The cross-country route takes in some stunning views and those who booked early will get to enjoy a pint of winter ale at mile two! All runners be issued with a timing chip – essential if you are competitive or aiming for a personal best – and we promise a fantastic atmosphere with lots of festive spirit from supporters cheering you on. Please do pre-register as the event is popular and we have already sold out of places in the drinking run.”
Dr Ross White, chief executive of Holy Cross Hospital says: “Every year, Matt Dellar organises this wonderful community event, which provides an important boost to our fundraising. Proceeds from previous Boxing Day runs have gone towards projects which make a positive difference towards our patients’ quality of life during their time with us. On behalf of everybody at Holy Cross, I offer my sincere thanks to Matt and all who support this event.”
The 3.5-mile (5.6k) route takes in Hindhead Commons, Gibbett Hill and the Devil’s Punch Bowl, ending back at the hotel. Categories include drinking and non-drinking runs for men and women.
All runners receive a medal and prize giving takes place from 12pm. Although many participants will simply be making the most of some fresh air after the excitement and excesses of Christmas Day, the event attracts serious runners too. Last year’s winner completed the course in just 21 minutes.
The Boxing Day Fun Run has a very local flavour with sponsorship from Wilson’s Electrical Distributors, the Sports Locker and the Hog’s Back Brewery as well as support from the Devil’s Punchbowl Hotel. Race:timing solutions provides the time chips, while Showtime radio communications and the National Trust also support the event.
Holy Cross Hospital is a specialist hospital for highly dependent patients who need individualised care due to neurological conditions following strokes, head injuries and other incidents. The hospital is based in Haslemere and has earned a reputation as a centre of excellence among the medical community.