1,500 runners sign up for iconic Chariots of Fire charity relay race in Cambridge - but there’s still time to enter

Chariots of Fire, the iconic Cambridge charity relay race, is just weeks away - but there’s still time to enter.

More than 1,500 runners have already signed up for the run on Sunday, March 19, which will raise money this year for the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity.

An ambitious fundraising target of £71,000 has been set, which would enable the charity to expand its retail business by adding to its five shops and retail hub. These raise vital funds for Arthur Rank to care for those in Cambridgeshire living with advanced serious illnesses or life-limiting conditions.

Teams of six runners will pass a baton to one another in the relay race. Each runner will tackle a picturesque 1.7-mile route that starts and ends on Queens’ Green, takes in historic city centre streets, University of Cambridge colleges and the Backs and crosses the River Cam. While some teams compete annually for the best times, others embrace the race with fancy dress.

The race - marking its 30th anniversary - is usually held in September, but was postponed last year due to the Queen’s death.

Colin Jones, a trustee of the race organiser, HCR Hewitsons Charitable Trust, said: “Having myself run in Chariots every year since 1992 I am delighted to be running again and raising much needed funds for the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, who provide such an essential service to the community.

“The charity provides critical end-of-life care to over 4,000 people every year and we are very pleased that Chariots of Fire will be supporting them reach their funding goal. The solidarity and team spirit seen during the race is a wonder and it’s pleasing to see such a wider range of participants.”

Donna Talbot, communications and income generation director for Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, added: “The number of teams that will be running this iconic race is inspiring and each team through their fundraising is doing so much more than helping us to reach our ambitious target.

“They are ensuring we can generate money at the till of a new shop whilst doing something great for our environment by recycling pre-loved items, providing volunteering opportunities and creating new jobs. We’re incredibly grateful to all those joining us on March 19 as we know this will make a positive difference to many people’s lives.”

To enter a team into this year’s race visit chariots-of-fire.co.uk before 5pm on March 15, or before registrations reach 380 teams, whichever comes first. The cost per team of six is £150. If you don’t wish to enter, but would like to contribute, visit the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity’s JustGiving page at justgiving.com/campaign/chariotsoffire2022.

HCR Hewitsons Charitable Trust is the charitable arm of the Cambridge law firm.