The Willow 10K made a fantastic return on Sunday 12 October at Hatfield House in Hertfordshire. With 650 participants coming together to take part, the event saw its biggest turnout since Covid.
Runners chose between a 10K run, a 5K run or the 1.8K family fun run, with supporters lining the route to cheer them on around the scenic grounds of Hatfield House.
Willow’s Honorary Presidents David Seaman MBE and Frankie Seaman joined on the day, chatting to runners and handing out medals at the finish line.
The family fun run brought plenty of smiles, with children and families showing off their creativity in colourful costumes. Prizes were given for the best fancy dress, and one of the highlights of the day came when Graham, Charlotte and Grant completed the 10K dressed as inflatable ducks.
“I ran with Charlotte, my niece, and Grant, a very good friend, in memory of my lovely sister Carmina, Charlotte’s mum, and to help give others the opportunity through Willow to enjoy quality time and create special memories.
“Carmina had her Special Day in 2005 while she was on treatment for stomach cancer. They were picked up by limousine for a meal, then went on to a local show. We went along to see them off, and that is a memory that will stay with me forever. I’ll never forget the smiles and laughter as they were picked up and we waved them off.
“We ran in costumes we thought would be fun, to help make people smile on the day.”
– Graham (on the left)
A huge thank you to everyone who took part, volunteered or came along to support. Every registration helps deliver more Special Days for young adults living with serious illness.
This year’s event was proudly supported by Simmons Bakers, Wrights Estate Agents, Davis For Building, Lantern Services, New Horizon CrossFit and Recovery Inc.
Want to take on a fundraising challenge and make a difference? View our event calendar to see what’s coming up.