Reaching the finish line of the Caerphilly 10k is a great feeling – but it’s even more rewarding to run the race to raise funds for a charity.
Already more than 900 people have signed up to run the Caerphilly 10k on Sunday 22nd June, and more than 40 charities and good causes are being represented by participants. Among the charities already chosen by this year’s runners are the British Heart Foundation, NSPCC, Caerphilly Children’s Centre and Alzheimer’s Society.
Runners who are still looking to sign up for this year’s event are being encouraged to join the band of runners supporting a charitable cause close to their heart.
One such charitable runner is Michelle Gibbs, 34, from the Upper Afan Valley in Neath Port Talbot, who is running to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Society.
She explained: “I’m running on behalf of Alzheimer’s Society as my Nanna was diagnosed with vascular dementia about a year ago. I think it is really important to help raise the profile of the charity and its work – and most importantly – every penny helps to fund essential research.
““I ran the inaugural Caerphilly 10k in 2013 and I really enjoyed the day – the event was really well organised with lots to do. I was encouraged to take part by the girls in my running club, as I hadn’t really run that distance before. I have since run the Cardiff Half Marathon and the Virgin London Marathon 2014, both raising money for Alzheimer’s Society.”
Alan Drury, Community Fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Society said: “We’re delighted to hear that Michelle has chosen to run the Caerphilly 10K on behalf of Alzheimer’s Society. We’re reliant on brilliant fundraisers and donors, like Michelle, who help us to provide vital support to the thousands of families affected by dementia across Wales. We wish everyone taking part in the Caerphilly 10k the best of luck and would like to take this opportunity to thank Michelle for her support.”
Cllr David Poole, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Community & Leisure Services, said: “In this digital age of online donation websites and social media, fundraising for a charity has never been easier. Running for a good cause gives you a real feel good factor, and can help motivate you through your training, as well as during the race itself.
“I would encourage anyone running this year’s Caerphilly 10k to go the extra mile and consider raising sponsorship to support a local or national charity or good cause.”
The Caerphilly 10k is open to runners of all abilities aged 15 or over. Registration is just £14, while club runners and concessions only pay £12.
Last year the winner, Rob Bugden, crossed the line in a staggering 32 minutes and 11 seconds, while the last finisher came home with a time of 1 hour, 44 minutes and 39 seconds.
The oldest entrant, 77-year-old John Williams, finished in 1 hour, 17 minutes and 29 seconds, while the one wheelchair entrant, James Lynch, completed the course in just 49 minutes and 42 seconds.
A Junior 2k race around Caerphilly Castle will also be held on the day. Entry is £3. Participating children must be at least 8-years-old on the day of the race to enter.
To sign up, or for more details, please visit www.caerphilly.gov.uk/caerphilly10k.
