A local Worcester man is organising a running group to raise money on behalf of Acorns Children’s Hospice at Worcester City Runs.
Steve Ennis, Managing Director of Business Doctors, reached out to his business group to encourage colleagues to sign up for either the Worcester City 10k or Half Marathon races on the 15th September. His appeal quickly gathered momentum, and now the group raising money for Acorn’s Children’s Hospice is around 130 individuals. The group has also been meeting for an informal running session every Wednesday around Worcester racecourse.
Simon Hodgetts is one of the regulars at the running sessions. “I thought this would be a great opportunity for me to get involved, get fit, have some fun and raise money for this worthy local charity.” He previously hadn’t done any serious running for over 30 years, but has benefitted from the weekly sessions, turning up no matter the weather, and is feeling well-prepared for the Worcester City 10k on the 15th September.
The group even have a few experts on hand to help with training, advice and motivation. The training sessions are coached by Dave Bird, a former marathon runner whose highlights include 3rd Place in the 2010 Edinburgh Marathon. Since then, Dave has coached runners to achieve their running potential, teaching running style, employing better technique and tailored practice for every individual. “Dave has been a real hero in terms of the support he has provided,” says Steve.
“It’s been a pleasure and a privilege coaching this group of runners over the last few months,” says Dave. “The camaraderie has been huge, with everyone helping each other clock up the miles in support of such a worthy cause.”
Ryan Sneddon, from Worcester Physiotherapy Clinic, the official physiotherapy partner of Worcester City Runs, has also been on hand to support the running group through their training. Ryan offered a free consultation to the group, a physical check-up regardless of age, ability and experiences. Several of the runners have expressed their gratitude for this support, even Steve himself, who was unaware of his own running vulnerabilities. “I was amazed at the type of exercises Ryan put me through to get a clear diagnostic on my strengths and weaknesses. Ryan provided a tailored set of exercises to do to strengthen up in areas where it was needed and it has worked a trick.” Physiotherapy is not only about injury management, it can also be a tool for increasing strength and mobility, thus helping to prevent injury and improve performance in the long run.
“My role as a Physiotherapist has been offering a physical check-up for the early sign ups to highlight areas of vulnerability, and to provide guidance and advice on their training so as to be safe, and minimise risk of injury,” says Ryan. I’ve been on hand to provide advice, guidance, warm-up routines and Physiotherapy assessments for anyone who has experienced pain or injury, to give them every opportunity of having a safe and enjoyable run in September.”
Kate Vousden, Events Manager at Acorns Children’s Hospice, said: “Here at Acorns, we’re all counting down the days to Worcester City Runs. We’re so excited to be this year’s official charity partner and to celebrate its 10th anniversary. We have over 130 runners taking part for Team Acorns and this is in no small part thanks to the amazing efforts of Steve Ennis, who’s done a brilliant job flying the flag for Acorns and our care for children and families across Worcester and the West Midlands. We’re incredibly grateful for everything he’s done to help fill our places.
“Events like this are crucial for raising awareness of our children’s hospice care and the vital funds that help us continue our support for families caring for seriously ill children. Two-thirds of the £30,000 we need every day to provide lifeline services come from generous donations and fundraising by our local community. Help can’t wait for families who desperately need us. But with the help of Team Acorns we can be there for them.”
The group are hoping for a big push over the next month as race day draws closer. “We look set to raise a good sum of money for Acorns which is the main objective,” says Steve, who managed to raise £575 for the charity last year by himself.
However, one of the most surprising things about the fundraising experience is the community spirit between the runners. “What I have really enjoyed is meeting some new people and the friendship and camaraderie that comes from being involved in this project,” says Simon. “It’s been really nice to be a small part of this lovely team of local business people, jogging around together, chatting, getting some fresh air, enjoying the experience and helping to raise funds for Acorns.”
“The thing that has been a surprise has been the fun we’ve had going through the process – it seems to have captured the imagination of the local business community,” says Steve. “A large number of people who have never dreamt of doing a half marathon have taken the plunge and are preparing for the race.”
The 2024 Worcester City Run will take place on Sunday 15th September 2024. Entries are still open for the 10k and half marathon races via worcestercityrun.com. It’s not too late to apply for a fundraising pack from Acorns Children’s Hospice, email info@eventsofthenorth.com to request one. Visit acorns.org.uk to find out more about the charity’s vital work.
