Last chance to race against the world

There’s not long left to take part in the Global Schools' Running Race and be a part of a race competing against runners from over 17 other countries, which has now received the backing of Lord Coe.

The race has attracted the attention of Salopians, schools across the UK, and schools from Bahrain, Singapore, China, Canada and Ethiopia having already completed their races, and interest coming from Sweden, Australia and Thailand, among many more countries.

Lord Coe, President of World Athletics, has sent a video of support for the event, praising the hard work of our race organisers for ‘thinking outside of the box’ by creating the race, as well as highlighting the importance of keeping active. 

Race Organiser, Sam Griffiths, said: “Our inspiration for this virtual event is our passionate belief in the importance of staying active and the benefits that come from it both for physical and mental wellbeing, even more important amongst youngsters at the moment.

“So much has been taken away from this generation- all around the world- but yet there is light on the horizon, and we want to really harness that sense of optimism and possibility in aiming to unite youngsters all around the world through the shared joy of running. 

“The Global Schools’ Running Race (perhaps one of the first of its kind) isn’t necessarily so much about competition and seeing who’s the fastest; rather, it’s about joining together and sharing in the enjoyment of something that is love all around the world.  With the sport of cross-country running having originated at Shrewsbury School, we feel something of a responsibility and duty in promoting the sport of running and celebrating in its rich traditions alongside all that running offers to youngsters to this day.

“So, lace up those trainers and give it a go; you can even compare yourself against… the rest of the world!”

Runners are invited to pick their own route, across any terrain, covering the precise distance which will then be logged and compared to find the winner of each age category. The distances range from 2km for U9 with U13, U15, U19 and Age 19+ completing a 5km race with prizes awarded to the overall male and female winners of each age category.

To register your interest visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/global-schools-running-race-tickets-142488249189

All race times must be submitted no later than midday on Sunday, March 21 to Kirsten Webb at the following email address, please include full name, race category and school name in your email: [email protected].