THE FOUNDER of the Regency Run is taking part in the race for the first time – 14 years after being bet a pint to set-up the event.
Russell Hall came up with the idea after a discussion with a friend over why the town did not have its own annual race.
Despite helping to organise the run every year since, Russell – who is member of the Leamington Round Table and clinical director at Avonvale Veterinary Centre – has not yet taken part.
But that is set to change on Sunday April 15 when he will fire the starting gun before joining the 2,500 runners taking part in the run.
He said: “I used to run four or five times a week, then I had children and I haven’t put on my trainers for six years.
“So I decided it’s high time I got fit again and thought what better way than committing to taking part in the Regency 10k.
“The run came about after I was in a pub with a mate chatting about running races in the Midlands.
“We discussed why there is no race in Leamington and he replied it was because I hadn’t organised one.
“So I bet him a pint that by the same time next year the first Leamington 10k would have taken place – I got my pint.”
The event has raised nearly £300,000 for local causes since it began, with organisers hoping for a record amount of entries this year.
Russell added: “It feels fantastic to have played a part in raising money for local good causes.
“Organising the run has always been a group effort, Leamington Round Table members and the community come together to help and Wright Hassall has sponsored us every year since its inception.
“To those who are still unsure whether to take part, my advice would be to get fit, help the community and get involved in a fantastic event.
“You will not see as many smiling faces anywhere else in Leamington all year.”
Alongside the Regency Run, the 1km Kids Run Free Juniors’ run will return for its fifth year, with entries still being taken for both.
Visit www.regency10k.co.uk to sign up or find out more.
