Share this story!
LOOKING for a running or walking challenge to tackle with friends and family this year? HARP24 might be just what you’re looking for.
Now in its 12th year, HARP24 is a 24-hour endurance race that welcomes both serious runners and fun runners looking for a challenge.
The event will take place at Cherry Orchard Country Park, near Southend, on the weekend of 21–22 July 2024.
Participants can enter as solo runners or join a relay team with up to 12 friends or family members. The goal is to complete as many laps as possible, of the scenic five-mile course, between midday on Saturday, 21 July, and midday on Sunday, 22 July. Awards will be given to solo runners and teams in various categories.
Agata Elliott, Director of Fundraising and Communications at HARP, said: “Now in its 12th year, HARP24 is a fantastic challenge for everyone.
“Every year, we welcome a mix of serious solo runners and groups of friends and families who enjoy running. Some participants even walk the laps. Everyone comes seeking a challenge while enjoying camping in the beautiful Cherry Orchard Park and raising money to support our work in Southend.”
Kelly Unett, the solo female winner of the 2023 event and a participant with Castle Point Joggers, shared her experience: “Last year was the first time I’d done anything like a 24-hour endurance race; before that, I’d only run a half marathon.
“Before I knew it, I’d completed 16 laps. The atmosphere kept me going, it was a fantastic event.
“Whether you run one lap as part of a team or aim for multiple laps over the 24 hours, I’d encourage you to give it a try. The volunteers and staff were amazing, keeping everyone’s spirits high throughout the night.”
The entry fee is £38 with a minimum sponsorship target of £100. Alternatively, participants can pay £80 without a sponsorship commitment. Both options include real-time chip timing with leaderboards, a goody bag filled with exclusive merchandise and snacks, a medal, and a branded HARP24 t-shirt.
“Camping for two nights (Friday and Saturday) is also included for those who wish to sleep.
HARP24 is generously sponsored by local businesses, ensuring that every penny raised goes towards HARP’s life-changing work. HARP supports around 1,000 local people each year who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of losing their homes.
For more information or to register, visit www.harpsouthend.org.uk.
Picture: Kelly Unett
Read more.
Visit: https://leigh-on-sea.news
Contact us. Email: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leighonsea.news
Twitter: @leighonsea_news