The first Lambourn Valley Fun Run proved to be a wonderful celebration of running, family and community spirit, with participants ranging from the very youngest children to runners in later life.
Held at Lambourn Sports Club on Saturday 5 September, the event offered something for every age and ability. The afternoon began with a 50 metre dash for children aged five and under, followed by a 350 metre sprint for those aged six to nine and a 700 metre run for children aged ten to twelve. The programme culminated in the five mile fun run through the beautiful Lambourn countryside.
The children’s races were particularly wonderful to watch. Although there was plenty of enthusiasm and determination, the real objective was not to come first, but to reach the finishing line, enjoy the experience and collect a well earned medal. Every participant received one, making sure that effort and involvement were celebrated just as much as speed.
There was the same warm and encouraging atmosphere throughout the five mile event. Runners of different ages and abilities took part, some aiming for a quick time and others simply enjoying the opportunity to complete the course alongside friends, family and fellow members of the community.
The event was organised by Steve Parsons and Chris Martin, whose hard work and enthusiasm brought the whole occasion together. Their efforts have established what everyone hopes will become a popular annual Lambourn Valley tradition.
The route itself would not have been possible without the generous cooperation of the local landowners. They went out of their way to help prepare the course, including mowing footpaths so that the run would be safer, easier and more enjoyable for everyone taking part. Their support was a fine example of the local community working together to make something special happen.
At the halfway point, Cathy Brown provided a very welcome water station, offering runners water, energy gels and, perhaps most importantly, plenty of positive encouragement. Her cheerful support helped many tired runners find the energy for the journey back to the finish.
The raffle was another wonderful example of community collaboration. A tremendous selection of prizes was donated by local businesses, with all the proceeds going towards activities and projects benefiting the Lambourn community. We are enormously grateful to every business and individual who contributed a prize, bought a ticket or helped to organise the raffle.
The afternoon was about much more than running. Live music, refreshments and the bar helped to create a relaxed family occasion where people could meet, socialise and cheer on the participants.
Special thanks must go to Gabriel Hannon for his exceptionally kind and generous sponsorship. Without his support, the event simply would not have been possible. His contribution enabled the organisers to create an inclusive event with affordable entry fees and medals for everyone who took part.
We are also extremely grateful to Lambourn Sports Club for hosting the event and providing such an excellent base for the races, and to the Lambourn Valley Running Club for its invaluable involvement and support.
Finally, the greatest thanks must go to everyone who entered. From the youngest children tackling the 50 metre dash to the oldest participants completing the five mile course, everyone appeared to have a wonderful time. Their enthusiasm, determination and smiles made the first Lambourn Valley Fun Run such a memorable success and provided the perfect foundation for a new annual community tradition.
