Nine heroic runners have raised £1,853.75 for Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) by running a variety of distances at the first ever Bournemouth Marathon Festival.
The Bournemouth Marathon Festival took place on 5th and 6th October in the heart of Bournemouth, along the esplanade and pier next to stunning coastal views. DWT members, staff and volunteers ran the 10K, half marathon and full marathon, covering an impressive collective distance of 144.3km (89.4 miles).
Louise Kenchington, lives in Bournemouth and ran the 10k in 01:11:38. Louise said: “I have been a member of DWT for a number of years and struggle getting to volunteering events, so this was a different way of contributing as a volunteer. I think it is important to preserve the diversity of wildlife we have in Dorset.”
HR Manager for DWT, Steve Davis, lives in Poole ran the half marathon in 02.03.31. He regularly runs for local events and wanted to support the Bournemouth Marathon Festival and wildlife in Dorset. Steve said: “Raising money for DWT seemed like the obvious choice. I have always been passionate about wildlife, and in my role for the trust I get to see the difference donations can make first hand. I was very proud to run for DWT and really enjoyed the race.”
Bournemouth local, Steven Fall, ran the 10k in 58:34:00. He is signing up to run again next year for DWT, and particularly enjoyed the atmosphere of the race and the support of the crowds. Steven said: “Having people cheer you on is so important. I felt like the crowd gave me a real buzz, especially running past the pier for the first time when I started to mentally doubt myself.”
First time marathon runner, Matt Hardy, lives in Poole and completed the epic race in 05:03:31. Matt said: “Everyone has done so well, and we’ve saved some wildlife! It’s a great feeling, and I’ve already signed up for next year. I’ve also really enjoyed getting to know my fellow runners and sharing our training stories! I’m pleased the money I have raised will help protect wildlife in Dorset.”
Entries are already being accepted for the Bournemouth Marathon Festival 2014. For more information visit: www.run-bmf.com/?charity-information&charities_id=850
If you want to find out how you can support DWT through fundraising, visit: www.dorsetwildlifetrust/howyoucanhelp
