Pupils encouraged to take on half marathon
Schools across Plymouth are being invited to take part in Plymouth’s Half Marathon Schools’ Challenge in 2015, to be staged alongside the popular South West running event on Sunday 19th April.
The 12 week programme will encourage pupils to complete the equivalent of a mile a week in the lead up to Plymouth’s Half Marathon. They will then complete their final mile on race day to make up their own half marathon distance, with a fantastic finish on the Hoe in front of thousands of spectators. This year the Schools’ Challenge attracted over 1,900 young runners, with a staggering 192 pupils participating from Woodford Primary School in Plympton alone!
Taking place in association with CLIC Sargent, pupils will not only play an important part in fundraising for their local children’s services, but will also go on to receive their very own t-shirt, goody bag and half marathon medal!
Jamie Warren, Head of Marketing and Commercial at organisers GO2, said: “The concept of the Schools’ Challenge has proved to be incredibly popular across all of our half marathon events, however Plymouth always sets the standard in terms of entry numbers and the fantastic level of fundraising the pupils attract. The Schools’ Challenge is the perfect way to inspire the younger generation to take up the sport of running, and we hope that even more schools will encourage their pupils to take to the stage of Plymouth’s Half Marathon!”
All entries will be managed through participating Primary Schools within the Plymouth city and local area. The Schools’ Challenge will begin directly after the main race, and will be supervised at all times by CRB checked staff.
Stephanie Cherington-Rimmell, Area Fundraising Manager at CLIC Sargent, said: “CLIC Sargent is delighted to have been chosen as the official charity for the Plymouth Half Marathon Schools’ Challenge 2015. We hope the event can help to raise more funds than ever to help children and young people with cancer and their families; whether that be clinical, practical, financial or emotional support to help them cope with childhood cancer, we aim to help them get the most out of life.”
Plymouth’s Half Marathon is known for its spectacular scenery, fantastic spectator support and friendly atmosphere. The main race will start in style on the Hoe, before taking in a stunning and varied course that boasts coastal views, the charming Barbican harbour, and even the beautiful National Trust grounds of Saltram Park. The 13.1 mile journey will then bring you back to the Hoe, where you can expect thousands of supporters waiting to cheer you across the finish line!
To find out more about the Plymouth’s Half Marathon Schools’ Challenge please visit www.plymouthhalfmarathon.com, where you can also take advantage of the main race’s Early Bird offer of £29 for a limited time! If you have any further queries regarding the Schools’ Challenge, please contact your local School Organiser or email jennifersilcox@achieveevents.com.
