The Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon is one of Britain’s most beautiful city runs and takes place this year on Sunday 7 October 2012.

 

This multi award-winning event involves a beautiful 13.1 mile scenic route that winds its way through four Royal Parks in all their autumnal splendor. Runners also have the opportunity to take in magnificent views of London’s historic landmarks including Buckingham Palace and the London Eye.

 

Participants will be provided with a soft, breathable running shirt made from sustainable bamboo and recycled polyester (made entirely from recycled plastic bottles). In addition, they will receive expert training and sports nutrition advice in the run up to race day from Lucozade and Matt Roberts. Virgin Money Giving will be supporting runners with their fundraising and Grosvenor House Hotel will be offering reduced luxury accommodation.

 

Working with Marks & Spencer, the Royal Parks Foundation is doing everything it can to keep race day as sustainable as possible and help reduce the impact on the environment:

 

  • The winning trophy has been created by master craftsman, Mark Wilkinson, from an Oak Burr found in Richmond Park
  • Wood is used for the leaf shaped finisher’s medal
  • More than 75,000 plastic bottles will be recycled
  • All discarded running clothes along the route are collected and donated to Oxfam
  • All participants receive Fairtrade bananas to replenish energy levels after the race
  • Surplus food will be collected and redistributed to those in need by Fare Share

 

Race Day

Renowned for its carnival atmosphere, race day also features many activities to keep family and friends busy, from a Food & Fitness Festival full of scrumptious food, taster sports activities and music acts to Pulse3K, an exciting race for 11-16 year olds. This race for young runners was created to challenge the nation's youth to run 3km for charity, and get fit together with friends and family. Starting in Hyde Park, the scenic route heads west into Kensington Gardens, finishing under the main Half Marathon gantry to the cheers of the crowd.

 

Pulse3K is open to runners of all levels from schools and clubs. Visit www.Pulse3K.com to register. Places cost just £7!

 

Run for Charity

Since its launch in 2008, this magnificent event has helped raise an estimated £11m for 365 vital causes around the UK, including the Royal Parks Foundation, Cancer Research UK, Mind, Tommy’s and UNICEF.

 

There are still charity places available for this year’s race on 07.10.12.

 

Visit www.RoyalParksHalf.com

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PACE is a  marathon-photos.com  Publication