The Ealing Half Marathon has become a firm fixture of local life each September; but did you know about the enormous amount of work the team behind the event does to inspire thousands of local schoolchildren to stay active and healthy?
Each year, the Ealing Half Marathon Schools Challenge encourages schools to enter their own teams into the Ealing Half Marathon to raise vital funds for their individual school projects. In return, the Ealing Half team provides training advice and other support.
The winner of the last Schools Challenge has just been confirmed, with Ealing Fields High School raising more than any other school based on the average funds raised per runner at the 2018 Ealing Half Marathon. In recognition of their efforts, the school was presented with a cheque for £250 to top-up their total – and it was put towards a new minibus.
In total, local schools taking part in the 2018 challenge raised more than £28,000.
Sandra Courtney, Ealing Half Marathon race director, said: “Ealing Fields High School put in an incredible effort to train and fundraise for the event and I hope that their achievement will inspire other schools to take up the challenge and enjoy the many benefits of working towards something as part of a team.”
The Ealing Fields High School team comprised of member of staff Karl Woodham plus four parents of pupils at the school: Aled Davies, Juliet Doe, Susan Simpson and Mohit Jain.
Mr Woodham said: “Ealing Fields is a small school and has always had a very strong community feel to it. As a result of the efforts of the team and the generosity of those in our community, the school have been able to purchase a minibus. The students benefit from this on a weekly basis as they travel to and from fixtures. All the students and staff at the school are very grateful to the PTSA and everyone who donated.”
It is important to be healthy and active
The funds are just part of the benefit in schools taking part in the challenge. Participating in a big sporting event such as the Ealing Half Marathon is a fantastic way to boost fitness and inspire younger generations to keep active. This is also an important message for the council, which it promotes through the Get Moving campaign. Get Moving showcases some of the wide range of opportunities available locally to help people stay active and live healthier lives.
Get your school moving this year
The Ealing Half Marathon is a brilliant race for first-time half marathon runners as well as for seasoned runners, with incredible support for all involved. It is hoped that the excellent use of funds at Ealing Fields High School will inspire more schools to enter and make a difference. The Schools Challenge returns for the 2019 event which takes place on Sunday, 29 September and entries are open now.
Full details of how to get involved are available on the Ealing Half Marathon website www.ealinghalfmarathon.com/schools-challenge
