The Boxing Day run returns for 2022 and entries are now open. The popular charity event is a 3.5 mile run across the countryside of the Hindhead Commons which raises money for Holy Cross Hospital in Haslemere.
“Please sign up for this fantastic fundraising run for the Holy Cross Hospital,” says Christopher Hinton, the hospital’s interim Chief Executive. “The atmosphere at the run is always jubilant and welcoming. It is a great antidote to the stresses of Christmas and the perfect excuse to get out in the fresh air on Boxing Day morning. All profits come to the hospital to help us in vital work with our patients, all of whom have highly complex needs.”
To enter, simply visit www.boxingdayrun.org and select the option for the standard run or the drinking run, where a pint of ale is served part way around the route. The run starts at 11am and last year attracted nearly 400 runners.
The run begins at the Devil’s Punchbowl Hotel in Hindhead and takes participants across Gibbet Hill and the Devil’s Punchbowl. All runners are provided with a timing chip to record the time it takes them to complete the route. Prizes are awarded for the fastest male and female runners in drinking and non-drinking categories.
The run is organised each year by Matt Dellar: “The Boxing Day Run is suitable for all levels, from absolute beginners to serious runners. Last year’s winners completed the route in around 22 minutes while for others, it’s fair to say they simply wanted to get round and enjoy the countryside! All are welcome to join in and help support this excellent hospital to do its amazing work.”
The run is supported each year by local sponsors, including the Hog’s Back Brewery, which provides the ale, the Devil’s Punchbowl Hotel, local electrical distributors Wilson’s, race:timing, the SportsLocker and Show Hire. The financial and in-kind sponsorship enables the organiser to pass on all profits to Holy Cross Hospital.
Holy Cross Hospital is a specialist hospital for people with very complex needs, often resulting from brain injuries or serious neurological conditions.