On Sunday 26th May, our team from Farleys laced up their running shoes to participate in the annual Great Manchester Run.
This year, 15 runners took on the 10k challenge, while four runners tackled the half marathon, all in support of The Christie Charity.
Team Farleys included half marathon runners Anna Billingsley, Ben Leech, Eve Abdel-Moneim, and Katie Sharples, and 10k runners Alice Wood, Armin Pishro, Charlotte Searle, Cliona Carey, Ella Holden, Finn Hubble, Jade Jump, Joseph Bridge, Leah Whitehead, Mark Hague, Megan Billington, Michael Corrigan, Olivia Airey, and Sarah Hill.
The Christie Charity, based in Manchester, is an integral part of The Christie NHS Foundation Trust and one of Europe’s leading cancer centres. The charity focuses on enhancing the care and treatment of cancer patients through funding pioneering research, new treatment methods, and vital support services. Their work helps ensure that patients receive the best possible care during their treatment journey.
The cause was chosen by the Farleys runners themselves as a charity close to the hearts of many of them, who have experienced the fantastic work done by The Christie through family and friends.
Team Farleys was inspired to support this vital cause raising over £2,400! This amount has been matched by The Farleys’ Foundation.
Despite forecasts of thunderstorms, the rain held off for the best part, providing good conditions for the runners and spectators. The atmosphere was very encouraging, with tens of thousands of participants and spectators heading to the streets of Manchester to cheer on the runners. The Great Manchester Run always attracts all sorts of people, from elite athletes to fun runners in fancy dress and this year was no different.
The 10k race commenced in Manchester City Centre, heading out towards Old Trafford, and then looping back to finish on Deansgate. The half marathon route was similar except with the addition of heading up to the Etihad Stadium, taking runners through some of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks.
Team Farleys, in their iconic purple tops, showed their endurance and camaraderie, after weeks of dedication and training to finish with some excellent times, including some personal bests.
Solicitor, and half marathon runner, Katie Sharples commented,
“We chose to raise money for The Christie Charity because, put bluntly, cancer is horrific and it affects all of us in one way or another. Earlier this year I found out that my Stepdad has cancer, he is the pillar of my family so it was, and continues to be, an extremely challenging time.
“On Sunday we were able to give back to The Christie Charity, fundraising for both the Half Marathon and the 10k. The Christie Charity provides enhanced services over and above what the NHS does for people living with cancer. I know from discussions with my colleagues and fellow runners just how invaluable their services are. I thought of that throughout the run and it kept me on track to hit my target time! On the running course, The Christie Charity had a bus full of supporters cheering which was so motivating for us all.
“I think now that our legs have somewhat recovered, we have all been able to reflect on the day. We all had a lot of fun and felt so much pride in our achievements, talk of next year has already started!”
Team Farleys’ fundraising page remains open for any last-minute donations before the funds are matched. For more information about the incredible work done by The Christie Charity, please visit their website here.
