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Events: Royal Parks runners do Save the Children proud!

I’m Jess and I’ve been volunteering in the Community Events team for four months. This weekend was my first big event for Save the Children as marquee manager, and I think I can say it was a success!

Setting the pace

Our last running event of the year, Royal Parks Half Marathon went with a bang, setting the pace for many more great events in 2013! The sun shone for our 55 amazing runners, who were aiming to raise a whopping £38,000 between them.

Our events team was at the starting point in Hyde Park bright and early to welcome our runners, giving any nervous competitors a last-minute pep talk and a vote of confidence.

An inspirational event

It was inspiring to watch people preparing to embark on the 13-mile journey they had all trained incredibly hard for. Daniele and Silvano had even flown all the way from Italy to run for us. And knowing that so many of the 12,500 people taking part were supporting such good causes made the day even more special.

Our brilliant teams of cheerers were stationed at Mile 7 and Mile 10. Armed with kazoos, tambourines, cowbells and carnival horns, they gave runners a burst of support and energy to help them make it to the finish line. (Although I reckon it may have been the packets of sweets at Mile 10 that did the trick in helping some power on to beat their personal best!)

Post-race party

Our post-race reception marquee was buzzing with runners basking in the glory of their success with friends and family. And those with aching limbs could have their muscles soothed by a massage from one of our lovely therapists, kindly donated by Reckitt Benckiser.

Outside our tent, there was a great Food and Fitness Festival for all to enjoy where chefs from around the world were cooking up a storm, as well as an entertainment stage and live music!

“A wonderful, well-organised event”

One supporter told us: “Loved it, had a great day and thoroughly enjoyed my first ever half marathon. It’s a wonderful, well-organised event and I hope to be back next year!”

The event was a wonderful opportunity to meet our supporters and say ‘thank you’ in person for their incredible efforts in making a dramatic difference to the lives of so many children.

We’re already looking forward to seeing you all again in 2013!

Find out more about our 2013 fundraising events.

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