More than 1,300 runners hit the tarmac at Southampton Airport for a bright and early 5.30am 5km fun run in aid of the region’s local air ambulance charity.
On Sunday 19 July, crowds of people from across the region swapped a full-night’s sleep to catch the glowing sunrise as they lined up along the runway of the local international airport. From competitive runners chasing personal bests to friends and family of former patients, the mix of participants created a positive atmosphere throughout the morning.
Lee Wedge crossed the finish line first, in an impressive 17 minutes and 14 seconds.
So far, £75,000 has been raised through ticket sales and donations – enough to fund more than 20 life-saving missions for the air ambulance charity.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance relocated its operational and charity headquarters to its new airbase near Southampton Airport in June 2026, improving response times and helping the charity’s crew save more lives.
Keith Wilson, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Director of Income and Engagement, said: “Seeing the early morning sun blazing over the airport and 1,300 runners makes for a superb spectacle.
“And with our airbase now forming part of that landscape after years of preparation, planning and fundraising, it is a real pinch-me moment.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who rolled out of bed at 4am and to the team at Southampton Airport for supporting us and our future patients.”
Maurice Boyle, Operations Director at Southampton Airport, said: “It was fantastic to see 1,300 runners back on the runway for another successful Runway Run.
“The event has quickly become a favourite in the local calendar and the support for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance has been remarkable once again. Now that the charity is based here at Southampton Airport, it’s particularly pleasing to see so many people helping to support the life-saving work its crews provide across the region.
“Thank you to everyone who took part and helped make the event such a success.”
The date for next year’s event will be announced soon.
For people who missed out on this year’s Runway Run, tickets for the charity’s 5km night-time run, Dash in the Dark, are available at: www.hiowaa.org/event/dash-in-the-dark-southampton
