5 July 2019 Southampton Airport’s Runway Run raises over £30,000 for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance
Southampton Airport hosted yet another successful Runway Run on Sunday 23 June, raising over £30,000 for its charity partner, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA). A record 1000 runners, 300 more than in 2018, had an early start to participate in one of the biggest runs of its kind in the UK
Neil Garwood, Managing Director at Southampton Airport, was amongst those running for the life-saving charity. He said: “This is the third year running that HIOWAA has been our charity partner for our Runway Run, and it’s been incredible to see that, despite the early start and the increased number of places available, the run was sold out within 8 days! HIOWAA is an outstanding charity and it was very moving to see such commitment from the runners on the day, with many wearing fancy dress and offering support to fellow runners. A huge thank you to all the runners, volunteers and airport staff for creating such a fantastic atmosphere.”
As part of their ongoing green initiatives, and in an effort to step away from single-use plastic, both parties provided water stations for runners to fill up their water bottles.
Alex Lochrane, CEO of HIOWAA, said: “Thanks to the immense support we have received from Southampton Airport since the start of our partnership in 2017, together we have successfully managed to beat all previous Runway Run records, with 1000 runners participating and just over £30,000 raised to date. A heartfelt thank you to Southampton Airport for making our three-year partnership such an unprecedented success.”
The Runway Run was attended by 73-year old Carol Thomas or, as she calls herself, ‘Runway Junkie’, who travels around the world participating in runway runs. Carol said: “This is my 31st runway run in three years, and I feel totally exhilarated! It’s my first time running in Southampton and been it’s a great experience. The runway is very smooth and clear without a headwind. I think what the airport is doing for such a wonderful cause is remarkable, and I would really like to come back one day.”
Joshua Goldfinch was the first person to cross the finish line, while Jen Granger was the fastest female runner on the day.
Southampton Airport is the only commercial airport in the UK to open up its runway to members of the public for this type of event. The local Airport aims to become the airport to host the biggest Runway Run host in Europe.
