Herefordshire’s running community came together on Monday 2 January in response to an S.O.S. They took part in the Hereford Couriers Dusk to Dawn Run to help a crowdfunding appeal on behalf of Hereford Athletics Track. 

The 34-year old track is based at Hereford Leisure Centre and well used by running clubs and athletics associations who host training sessions and competitions there. It’s one of few athletics tracks in the region. 

Unfortunately, the track’s condition has deteriorated over time and it requires a complete refurbishment costing over £300,000. Herefordshire Athletics Association has set up a fundraising campaign with a £350,000 target which will pay for the repairs.  

Hereford Couriers RC lent their support to the event where over 150 participants from more than 15 clubs completed distances ranging from 400 metres to 40 miles. They achieved this running 8 mile loops at a steady pace on footpaths and quiet roads around Hereford on what was thankfully an unseasonably warm start to the new year.

The event started with loop 1 at 8.19am followed by four more that each took around 90 minutes to complete. There was a break for lunch half way through. Participants had the choice of how many loops they wished to run or they could join in the big group session after these on the athletics track at 4.08pm. It ended just after 4.15pm. 

Charity and social enterprise Halo manage Hereford Leisure Centre and provided access to their facilities along with hot drinks for participants. 

Hereford Couriers RC praised the efforts of everyone involved especially those who completed 40 miles and thanked the members who successfully co-ordinated the event. It: ”Showed how much the Herefordshire running community wants to save our much loved track!”        

Anyone who wishes to donate to the campaign can do so via Crowdfunder.

Image courtesy of Hereford Couriers RC.