Legacy
Legacy
Please note: this post is 103 months old and The Cares Family is no longer operational. This post is shared for information only
Of the many ways you can support a good cause, running – and more generally, sports challenges – are amongst the most unique, personal, and exciting. There is so much at stake: on the one hand, there’s the mental and physical battle, and on the other, the desire to raise as much money as possible for charity (which adds to the pressure of crossing the finish line).
On Sunday 9th October, over 10 volunteers donned their sportswear in aid of South London Cares by completing the Royal Parks Half Marathon or the Bear Grylls Survival Race. Neighbours running for neighbours. As Richard reminded us a couple of months back “You have broken the record, just by stepping over the start line,” because running a half marathon or completing a 30km obstacle course is no walk in the park.
So when someone takes on such a courageous feat in the name of friendship, community and companionship, we’re pretty inspired.
On Sunday morning, the sky was a vibrant blue. The air was infused with adrenaline and laughter. While there were a few nerves at the Royal Parks Half supporter zone, there were only smiles to be seen.
A similar picture was found at Trent Park, as Duncan and James warmed up for the Bear Grylls Survival Race – both nervous at the prospect of climbing, jumping and tackling obstacles as Bear Grylls would in the desert, artic and beyond. But a few push-ups, high-knees and high-fives later, they were off.
Each challenger was running to bring their community together – and that sense of neighbourliness was very much present at both races. Volunteers Naomi, Kyle and Liam managed to give the cheering crowd the odd high-five, whilst all runners were motivated by wise words from their neighbours: a banner, painted with messages like “Keep going” and “Don’t trip” from Rene, Patrick and Tony, hung from the sidelines.
Our Royal Parks Half runners finished a couple of hours later, while Duncan and James completed the Bear Grylls race in a cool four hours – still smiling, joking and laughing. There were hugs and smiles, there was chocolate and there was talk of a few beers to celebrate.
There was also the sense of sharing of teamwork, of coming together, which can too often be hidden in our big capital city. On mornings like this though – just as at our social clubs and through out Love Your Neighbour matches – it explodes.
We’re so grateful to everyone who takes on a challenge to make a difference in Brixton, Bermondsey and beyond – who come together to ensure friendships like Irene and Keerthi’s are a reality.
Thank you all – and well done.
If you want to take on a challenge and raise money for your community, check out our upcoming challenge opportunities.