Pupils launch Poole Festival of Running (From Thisisdorset)

Pupils launch Poole Festival of Running

11:00am Saturday 23rd March 2013 in Latest By Juliette Astrup

THE 32nd annual Poole Festival of Running has been officially launched – with help from a school cross-country running team.

Pupils at St Mary’s Catholic Combined School were joined by representatives of Poole Runners and Borough of Poole, joint organisers of the running festival, to mark the occasion yesterday. Entry is now open.

The Echo-backed event, which takes place in Poole Park on Sunday, June 2, features eight races throughout the day, as well as stalls, refreshments and children’s activities.

It includes Minithons for children, divided into five races for eight to 14-year-olds and a race for under eights, The Dorset Cancer Centre 5k, open to runners of all abilities over 14, and the nationally-recognised competitive Poole 10k, which attracts international elite runners every year, as well as club and recreational runners.

This year the named charity is the Dorset Cancer Centre, based at Poole Hospital. The charity is asking everyone to try to reach a minimum sponsorship of £10, and help raise £15,000.

Cllr Judy Butt, responsible for public engagement and participation, communities, sports and recreation at Borough of Poole, said: “Following last year’s Olympics I am confident we will have even more runners, no matter their age, taking part in this year’s event and helping continue Poole’s Olympic Legacy.”

Mike Towner, event chairman, praised the enthusiasm of the children at the launch, and added: “Poole Runners as always is looking forward to a successful event, but this year in particular we are looking to increase the number of Minithon participants. We hope to encourage schools across the area to enter teams whatever their age.”

He also urged people to sign up for the 5k and “raise money for a very important cause.”

Rebecca Churner, a teacher at St Mary’s, said: “Five or six pupils have already signed up, and we are handing out leaflets and promotions.”

Event sponsors include Everyone Active and Marsden Flooring of Broadstone. Entries can be made online at www.poolerunners.com, or pick up an entry form from your local sports centre. Trade stands are also available in Poole Park.

For details email Mike Towner on towner456@talk talk.net.