Hundreds of runners braved rain for the annual OX5 RUN in support of the Oxford Children’s Hospital.
The five-mile run, organised by Oxford Hospitals Charity, took place at a rather wet and windy Blenheim Palace, but the weather didn’t dampen spirits for the 744 who took part on Sunday.
Runners were given a Zumba-style warm up by George Martini, before being sent off on the Blenheim course by this year’s official starter, seven-year-old Kaiden Edwards, who is recovering from a brain tumour.
His mum, Kathryn, gathered a huge team of 65 friends and family to run with her, and they have together raised over £6,000 in sponsorship.
OX5 regular, Phil Rose, ran for the 10th consecutive year and was joined by his daughter Maizie who has spent a lot of time in the Children’s Hospital.
Phil said: “I’m here, quite simply, because Maizie is here. Without the hospital I wouldn’t have my daughter.”
Claire Maynard ran with a team of colleagues as well as her son, 10-year-old William. William has a rare condition which affects his heart, brain and hearing.
Claire said: "I feel very emotional today – it means such a lot that my work colleagues have joined me today.
"I am incredibly proud of William, he often gives his pocket money to the hospital charity, and it was him who spotted the poster about the event and encouraged us all to take part."
This year’s run was won by Sam Macaulay, in a super speedy time of 26 minutes and 45 seconds.
The first woman across the line was Anna Kelly in 29 minutes and 32 seconds.
Both Sam and Anna work at the Oxford Vaccine Group, which put in a large team on the day.
Many other hospital staff took part, including teams from across the Children’s Hospital as well as from Microbiology, Haematology and Paediatric Critical Care.
Gail Williams, from Oxford Hospitals Charity, said: "The weather may have been gloomy but our runners lit us all up – they were just amazing and there was such a special energy today.
"This event is such a team effort and we would like to share our thanks with our wonderful sponsors, Allen Associates as well as Jack FM, George Martini and of course Blenheim Palace."
It is hoped the event will raise over £100,000 to help fund specialist equipment and extra facilities for young patients at the Oxford Children’s Hospital and children’s services across Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
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This story was written by Miranda Norris, she joined the team in 2021 and covers news across Oxfordshire as well as news from Witney.
Get in touch with her by emailing: Miranda.Norris@newsquest.co.uk. Or find her on Twitter: @Mirandajnorris
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