With just under 3 weeks to go until CancerCare’s Cross Bay Challenge 2010, the excitement is really starting to build and this year it’s set to be the biggest event ever to take place in Morecambe Bay. With the choice of a half marathon or a family-friendly 6 mile walk there’s something for everyone.
The half marathon is believed to be the only race in the world to cross a tidal bay and has become a well-known sporting fixture in the UK that continues to attract ever-increasing numbers of competitors, both nationally and internationally. Whilst the course is mainly flat, it certainly lives up to its title of a challenge as runners take on sand and sea to make the historic crossing from Flookburgh to Hest Bank.
For those who prefer to take in the beauty of their surroundings at a calmer pace, the walk is open to all (canine companions included) and finishes at the same point as the half marathon in time to cheer to runners across the finish line.
All in all, this is a truly special, one of a kind event, the memories of which will last a lifetime. In the words of some of 2009’s participants:
“To anyone out there who’s thinking of having a go, think no longer and fill in the form. I assure you, you won’t regret it.” (Stuart Nicholson)
“What an absolutely ‘awesome’ experience it was to complete my first ever half marathon across the bay for CancerCare. It was amazing from start to finish and the scenery was spectacular… the organisation was second to none and I will definitely sign up to do it again next year.” (Saphira Lilley)
These and other comments from previous entrants are available on the event website at www.crossbayrun.org.uk where there is also a gallery of photos.
It all takes place on Sunday 6th June with the walk starting from Silverdale shore at 11am and the run from Cark Airfield in Flookburgh at 1.15pm – both finish at Hest Bank. Further information and registration is available online at www.crossbayrun.org.uk or from Fundraising at CancerCare on (01524) 381820. Runners must register in advance (entries close 30th May) whilst walkers may turn up and register on the day although a discounted rate is offered to those who register before 30th May.
Read our Cross Bay Walk page for crucial bay-crossing info.
Funded by donations and support from the local community it serves, CancerCare is hoping that the event will make a positive contribution to the funds it relies upon to offer its free services. The local charity is dedicated to supporting cancer patients, their families, carers and those bereaved by cancer. It provides free support to people facing cancer at all stages of the journey, providing around 14,000 therapy sessions a year to some 1500 clients at our 2 centres in Lancaster and Kendal and across North Lancashire and South Lakes.