HAILSHAM ACTIVE FUN RUN RETURNS AFTER 30 YEARS

from Hailsham News, February 2023, Issue 18

DOG ADOPTION WORKSHOPS LAUNCHED BY BUSY CHARITY

Get ready to hit the pavement! Hailsham’s Fun Run will be making its triumphant return after a 30-year hiatus — mark your calendars for Sunday 21 May and dust off your running shoes to join in this classic event. With huge support from Hailsham Town Council, there are four exciting distances to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Share the thrill of taking part with your family and make memories at this festive running event. Soak up the buzzing atmosphere at the start line on the high street and medals awarded to all finishers.

Ready, set, go! The exciting race begins at 9.30am in Hailsham’s High Street as runners wind their way through the parish boundary of Hailsham before finally sprinting to finish line back on Hailsham’s High Street. Get ready for an extraordinary experience that awaits all participants!

The available runs are: 10k, 5k, 3k and 1-mile runs. Whilst there is no age restriction for the 3k and 1-mile runs, entrants are required to be over the age of 15 to enter the 10k run and 11 for the 5k run (by 21 May 2023).

Hailsham Active is delighted to join forces with Sport Systems, renowned for its professional organisation of races across the UK on behalf of running clubs, charities and local authorities.

“Hailsham Active is delighted to be co-organising the event with Sport Systems, complementing our mission to create a healthier Hailsham community,” said joint project lead Mary Laxton. “Yes, it’s true, we were inspired by Team GB’s success in the Olympics last year and are bringing back the ‘Run’ to our great town of Hailsham!”

“In the mid-90s we hosted various fun runs but now, running is a growing community activity, beneficial to participants’ mental health, well-being and helping to combat isolation and stress into the bargain. Of course, this will be a prestigious event that will bring in runners and clubs with their families from across the area, and this in turn will also benefit our local economy and town centre trade on the day.”

“Furthermore, we are encouraging all Hailsham residents with any form of disability or special need to participate in the 1-mile inclusive run especially, using any form of support that they require. There will be a fully-accessible portable toilet on site. It’s so important to us to be fully inclusive as a community.”

Mrs Laxton added: “We are advertising far and wide to spread the word of this event, and now the Run is in place, it will go ahead regardless of the weather and applications are open! Let’s do this together and help put Hailsham on the sporting map.”

“It was a shame that we had to postpone the original date scheduled for May of last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but we are pleased that we have now launched the event and are accepting applications now!”

Steve Wennington, chairman of Hailsham

Active commented: “Getting people active is our objective, and we are sure the Hailsham Active Run will be a spur for many to start gentle exercise, working towards another wonderful fun day with the whole community. We are very grateful for the unanimous support with this project from race organisers Sport Systems and of course, the Town Council, which is a major sponsor of the event.”

The prices and start times for each race differ.

This all-inclusive event is the perfect opportunity for people with disabilities to get involved. Plus, it doesn’t stop there — those who wish to attend can also register their Carers too!

9:30am: 3k Race: £4.00 • 10:00am: 1 Mile Race: £5.00

10:30am: 5k Race: £13.00-15.00 • 10:30am: 10k Race: £16.50-£18.50

You will need to attend a registration ahead of your race, please factor this in to your arrival time.

Age Requirements

• The 1 Mile race is open to all ages

• The 3k is aimed at primary school children, but all are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the race.

• The 5k is open to everyone over the age of 11

• The 10k is open to everyone over the age of 15 Facilities: There will be toilets and a bag drop provided by the event organisers. Don’t miss out — register now for the upcoming race! With a limited capacity of 400 runners, this event is expected to fill up quickly. Act fast and secure your spot today!

Even if you can’t join in the party, don’t miss out on what’s sure to be a memorable day. Come and cheer on our runners and show your support — plus take advantage of local amenities as they open their doors for everyone to enjoy! It will create unforgettable energy with every racer crossing the finish line.

Race Sponsors:

• Hailsham Town Council