On your marks for Run Garioch 2024
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Entries have opened for the 2024 edition of Inverurie’s biggest festival of sport and family fun, Run Garioch.
Set to take place on Sunday, May 12, the all-day event for the whole community will include the Dandara 10K, the McWilliam Lippe Architects Half-Marathon, a 5K race and the CP&Co Junior Run, as well as an expanded event village.
An excellent sponsorship opportunity remains for any local firm wanting to take on the title sponsorship of the Run Garioch 5K – especially with the event now welcoming runners over the age of 12 on race day, rather than 13.
Sinclairs Jewellers of Inverurie will continue to support the race timing and results.
Sustainability remains a major focus for the race committee.
As in previous years, reducing and recycling waste is still a top priority. The race routes will remain free of single-use plastics, runners will be encouraged to bring their own water, eco-friendly t-shirts are again an optional extra and the committee is considering a few different ways to make the medals even more sustainable.
Claire Bathgate, Head of Sales with 10K sponsors Dandara Aberdeen, said, “It was really inspiring to see so many runners of all ages and abilities taking part last year, and it’s great to once again be able to support this landmark community event.
She added, “Last year’s Run Garioch was the greenest yet, with bamboo medals and all route and race generated waste being recycled, which aligns with Dandara’s ambitions and commitment to building a sustainable future.”
The event is a major fundraiser for the Garioch Sports Centre, as well as many other local charities, schools and sports clubs.
Run Garioch is delighted to be welcoming back three charities from last year’s event: long- term partners Inspire and Clan Cancer Support and one of the winners of the 2023 social media vote, Friends of the Neuro Ward.
The trio will be joined in providing valuable race day support by two new charities, CHAS and AberNecessities.
Emma Gartland, Senior Community Fundraiser at CHAS said, “For over 30 years, CHAS has been offering support services for families of babies, children and young people with life- shortening conditions. Today, more than 16,700 babies, children and young people live witha life-shortening medical condition.
“But through our supporters and partnerships with organisations like Run Garioch, we’re able to continue to support and help keep the joy alive for so many children and their families across the whole of Scotland.”
Michelle Herd, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of AberNecessities said: "We feel deeply honoured to have been selected as one of Run Garioch's charity partners. This recognition of our efforts is genuinely humbling, and we are forever appreciative of the overwhelming support from our community.”
Herd was full of praise for Run Garioch, and what it achieves for our local community each year.
She added, “To all the runners, whether new to the sport or experienced, we wholeheartedly encourage you to register for this exceptional event. By doing so, you have the opportunity to raise funds that will undeniably create a positive impact, whether that is for AberNecessities or our esteemed fellow charity partners. Together, we are collectively brightening the future for so many."
Run Garioch’s sponsors have also started encouraging runners to take part.
Julie McWilliam, Finance Director at McWilliam Lippe Architects, who took over the sponsorship of the Half-Marathon last year, said, “As we lace up our running shoes once more, we're reminded that this event is more than just a race; it's a testament to the spirit of our community, where all ages and abilities unite in the name of fitness and fun.
“Together, we run, we cheer, and we celebrate, forging bonds that last a lifetime. So, let's hit the pavement, create memories and make this year's Run Garioch the best one yet!"
For more information about Run Garioch, or to enter one of the events, please visit www.rungarioch.co.uk.
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, including the title sponsorship of the 5K, please email RGHQ at info@rungarioch.co.uk.
