Run Wales

Porth Eirias Runners raise £600 for local charities

Members of a Colwyn Bay running club have raised £600 for charity, running a 12-hour relay.

Porth Eirias Runners, a social running group which usually meets twice a week, took to the Colwyn Bay promenade on Saturday 25th July in a bid to raise funds for four local charities, The Delyth Wyn Foundation, Conwy Mind, Conwy Foodbank and Kind Bay Initiative.

Not to be beaten by the pandemic, the group’s volunteer Run Leaders Paula Ford and Gemma Gale organised a socially distanced 12hr relay run. Each member ran in pairs, for 30 mins along the coastal path at Colwyn Bay, before changing over to the next runners.

The weather was a mixture of sunshine and showers, but this didn’t dull the spirits of the runners, many who also wore tutus and fancy dress to brighten the day! The first runners started at 7.30 am, and the last ran their stint at 7pm. Over the day the group ran 176 miles in total. Each runner was rewarded with a goodie bag and a bespoke medal for their efforts.

Run Leader, Gemma Gale said:

“We had a fantastic turnout and it was an amazing team effort. The members always show so much encouragement for each other, especially through Lockdown.  It has been lovely organising this to inspire everyone to get out, get active, raise money for local charities and together we are stronger. When we set a challenge the team spirit and support is nothing less than 100%. It’s a run club to be proud of.”

As the Lockdown eases, The Porth Eirias Runners are now starting to enjoy running as a group again, meeting Mondays and Wednesdays ( mornings & evenings) on Colwyn Bay promenade. The group are now welcoming new members anyone interested should email: portheiriasrunners@yahoo.com