Victoria Park hosts Race for Life as fight against cancer continues

By Jayden Whitworth

Race for Life arrived in Leicester on Sunday(OCT17) as hundreds of runners embarked on a 5k or 10k run in support of Cancer Research UK.

The 2020 Leicester Race for Life was cancelled as COVID-19 took a grip on the nation, but the event returned on Sunday for the first time since 2019.

Hundreds of runners took part across the day in Victoria Park as times were staggered to adhere to social distancing measures.

Over £50,000 was raised amongst the participants with each runner fundraising prior to the event on Sunday.

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the fight against cancer has slightly wavered and these events are important to ensure the battle is not lost.

Annabel Forman, 18, who completed the 10k run in 1 hour and 13 minutes, said: “I really enjoyed the race.

“It was really encouraging being around people with the same goal of raising money for cancer research.

“Events like these are crucial to help fund charities and help spread awareness around signs of cancer.

“It brings hope to all those affected directly or through family and friends that the fight isn’t lost and understanding you are not alone.

“It’s brilliant to have these events once again after the pandemic.

“It felt very safe and seeing on the news how much the pandemic negatively impacted charities it was great to see everyone coming together and raising some money.”

Annabel was running the race in memory of her Nana, who died from cancer, and raised £165 in the process. 

To donate to Cancer Research UK you can go to this website www.cancerresearchuk.org/get-involved/donate or alternatively phone 0300 123 0770.