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Scotland’s leading cancer charity, Beatson Cancer Charity are encouraging people to take part in a virtual 5k Santa Dash on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th of December. Santa hat and trainers required; sleigh and Rudolph optional.
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Beatson Cancer Charity was set to receive funds as the official charity partner of Glasgow’s Annual Santa Dash, but the event sadly won’t go ahead as normal this year. As fundraising is so vital, however we are encouraging people to take part in a virtual event in their local area, whether that’s in Glasgow or further afield.
Grab your Santa hat and trainers and take part - whether it’s running, walking or cycling, participants are encouraged to remain safe within your small, socially distanced group wherever you are based. We hope that supporters of the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre from across Scotland will take part to raise vital funds to support their work on the run up to Christmas.
We will certainly miss the visual spectacle of thousands of Santas running up Glasgow’s St Vincent Street (or across Scotland), but now for this year, you can dress up in your festive attire and plot your own route! Complete a 5k in your local park, in your neighbourhood, by the canal, or on your treadmill at the gym.
Lord Provost Philip Braat, President of the Beatson Cancer Charity said:
“It is very disappointing that the traditional Santa Dash has to be put on hold this year, but I think everyone will understand that we have to play safe at this very challenging time. Our event partner, Beatson Cancer Charity, has been working hard to create a virtual version of what has become a real highlight of the city’s build-up to Christmas."
The Lord Provost continued:
“If you have taken part in the Santa Dash before or are just looking for a good reason to go for a run, I would urge you get involved with this year’s virtual Santa Dash.
“In what has been an unbelievably difficult year, I am hoping the virtual Santa Dash will give many of us something positive to rally round.”
Maisie McCormick, Community Fundraising Manager at Beatson Cancer Charity, said:
“We’re so excited to stage our own form of Santa Dash this year. We are calling on all wannabe Santa Dashers to help us. There will be many who are obviously disappointed about the cancellation of the usual calendar event but may still want to help a good cause this Christmas, and there are those who still want to do something festive with their family members or colleagues who want to team bond on an alternative to the Christmas team lunch and staff night out!"
Martin Cawley, CEO, echoes the need for support, adding:
“The Glasgow Santa Dash usually exceeds 8,000 entries and we are hoping the public and supporters will still want to participate closer to home. For a small donation, we will provide a lovely Santa hat, not a throw-away suit and we can follow everyone via our social media channels. Thank you for your support, it will make a huge difference to us.”
Bella Beatson was joined by the charity's newly crowned Ambassadog Comet and owner Claire to mark the launch of the event!
Trust us when we say, Yule be glad you took part! The exercise and endorphins are great for mental health and there’s the added benefit of raising money for charity and the associated feel good factor! Share photos from your event using #BeatsonSantaDash and be sure to tag the charity across social media @Beatsoncharity on Instagram, @Beatson_charity on Twitter, and @BeatsonCancerCharity on Facebook.
Find out more and sign up now!
