Sporting spotlight: Meet some of ARU's 2024 Race for Life runners
During June, three teams of staff members took part in Race for Life events to raise money for Cancer Research. Representatives from each team tell us how it went.
Cambridge
In Cambridge, staff members Penelope Harrall, Nicola Faulkner, Eleanor Newton, Marie-Pierre Moreau, Fatima De Marie Querra Ordinola and Rosaline Van De Wyer completed the Race for Life 5K and 10K.
The route took the team around the scenic colleges of University of Cambridge, where there were plenty of supporters cheering them on. The 10K route continued along the River Cam. All six of our runners finished the race with big smiles on their faces.
Penelope says: “it was a lovely opportunity to get to know other runners from the university and take part in an event that contributes to such a great cause.”
Peterborough
In Peterborough, Sally Pearson, Gillian McDonald, Emily Birks, Rebecca Holmes and Matthew Connor took part in the Pretty Muddy 5k run.
This involved a mixture of running, walking and clambering through and over 12 muddy obstacles based around the course, all situated in the stunning grounds at Burghley House, Stamford. All five of our runners completed the run together.
Rebecca says: “I would definitely encourage anyone to try a 5k Pretty Muddy run as it was so much fun, you can do it at any pace, and it's a great challenge to work towards.”
Chelmsford
In Chelmsford, Briony Findlay and Rachel Gilder completed the Race for Life Pretty Muddy 5KM at Hylands Park.
Rachel says:
“I'm not a runner in any way, and I've never particularly liked mud; that's why I thought I'd get out of my comfort zone and join Briony on this sporting adventure!
"I have to admit, when we reached the first muddy obstacle, I really didn't want to crawl under the net and into the mud, then somebody threw a bucket of cold, muddy water over us and, from then on, it was plain sailing! I really enjoyed it, more than I thought I might, and would love to take part again next year.
"I'm not built for running but it didn't matter at all – although it's called Race for Life, there is no pressure to run. We did a mixture of slow jogging and walking, and there were queues at most of the obstacles, which gave you time to have a breather. So, if you want to give it a go, just go for it!"