On Sunday 13th October, 32 representatives from the meetings industry gathered together in a muddy field in London’s Hyde Park to embark on a 13.1 mile challenge in support of Meeting Needs. The threat of rain did not dampen their spirits as The Royal Parks Half Marathon was the culmination of weeks of dedication to training and fundraising. The result will be in excess of £27,000 raised for the meetings industry charity. This was also the largest group of runners ever to fundraise for Meeting Needs as part of this annual event, with experienced and first-time runners taking part.
The runners are all active members from the meetings industry, with agencies, venues, DMCs and other industry suppliers all represented. They trained together and supported each other—both in person and virtually—for months as they prepared to run some of London’s most beautiful parks in support of Meeting Needs.
Jason Wilcock, Chair of Meeting Needs said “we are delighted to bring together a fabulous group of runners representing a diverse cross-section of the meetings industry to take on this challenge for Meeting Needs. I was inspired by their energy, motivation and team spirit ahead of the race, particularly considering the very muddy conditions that they faced on the day. It’s a testament to their dedication that we raised more funds than ever for great causes”
The funds will go directly to good causes in the UK and overseas, supporting at least four and maybe five large projects, changing the lives of people who very much need our help.
Kate Conway, who is responsible for fundraising for the charity, said “As promised last year, we increased the number of runners to 40, and received sponsorship from Sparq which covered the cost of the charity places. A What’s App group saw our runners supporting each other throughout their training programmes, creating some gentle competition! Organisations across the events industry were represented – Associated Luxury Hotels International, Sparq Live, Inception Events, Top Banana, First Event, IQPC, Global Marketing Connections, drpg, Penguins, Birch Systems, DMC Advantage, Mason Rose, Shangri La at the Shard, The Ned, CAT Publications, Lishman Associates, IHG, Pure Events, Chew Events, Worldspan and Warwick Hotels and Resorts.
Next year, we aim to increase the size of the team again, so if you would like to join the fun (it is – honest!), network with industry colleagues, get fit and raise funds for a great charity, then please contact – kconway@meetingneeds.org.uk”
It’s not too late to show your appreciation of the commitment these individuals showed by boosting the total raised even further by making a direct donation to Meeting Needs by visiting the Meeting Needs website and following the “Donate Now” link and using the reference RPHM19.
