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First-Ever brainstrust Running Event Hits the Ground Running

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Read Time: 2 mins

Bassingbourn, Sunday, 23rd June – The inaugural brainstrust Bass Belle 10k event, organised by Ash Hawkins, Fundraising Events Manager for brainstrust, marked a significant success, drawing in runners of all ages to the scenic village of Bassingbourn.

With a cap at 325 participants, the event saw an overwhelming response, filling all slots well ahead of the closing date. This race is part of the charity’s ‘Take on 10 for brain tumours’ series, which also features the brainstrust Bass Belle 10 miler and a variety of supported third-party events, including the Asics 10k, The Great South Run, Glasgow and Edinburgh 10k series, and Run Thorpe 10k.

Despite the heat on race day, participants showcased impressive performances. Alexander Nelson of the Cambridge & Coleridge Athletics Club clinched the victory with a time of 34m 55s, while Sharon Warren, also from the same club, was the first female finisher at 42m 15s. The event, open to runners aged 15 and over, saw a competitive under-18 category, with Murray Heal finishing first among boys at 41m 12s, and Eloise Button leading the girls at 51m 58s.

The fundraising efforts were remarkable, with the event raising over £14,000 for brainstrust. In addition to entry fees, a dedicated team of around 20 runners raised approximately £5,000. The highlight of the day was Andrea Moore, the last runner to cross the finish line, who received the loudest cheer and was the top fundraiser with an outstanding £1,500.

Ash Hawkins commented, “It was a great first showing for this new event. As well as raising crucial funds for brainstrust, the event also helped to raise awareness for the charity. The event brought the whole community out with many clapping and cheering from their doorsteps or coming to the finish line to show their support for the runners”.

The brainstrust Bass Belle 10 miler is set to return for its 9th edition on Sunday, 24th November, with entries opening in mid-July.

Ends

Editors notes

The statistics on brain tumours: 

  • More than 80,000 people in the UK are living with a brain tumour diagnosis. 
  • 40% of all cancers spread to the brain. 
  • It is the most common form of cancer in people under 40. 

About brainstrust: 

brainstrust is a UK-based charity dedicated to providing essential support and information to brain tumour patients and their families. With a mission to improve the quality of life for those affected by brain tumours, brainstrust offers a range of services, including emotional support, practical advice and access to expert guidance. By fostering a sense of community and raising awareness, brainstrust strives to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals facing the challenges of brain tumours. 

AVAILABLE for comment: Will Jones from brainstrust is available to comment.

For all media enquiries and more information, please contact: 

Daisy Fieldhouse 

PR 

Nifty Communications 

01905 27126 

Daisy.fieldhouse@niftycomms.com 

www.niftycomms.com 

Runners on their way to the start line.jpg

Runners on their way to the start line.jpg

The race starts.jpg

The race starts.jpg

Preparing the goodies for the finish.jpg

Preparing the goodies for the finish.jpg

Final stretches for the Team Cresset who raised nearly £1000 for brainstrust.jpg

Final stretches for the Team Cresset who raised nearly £1000 for brainstrust.jpg

Team Cresset celebrating another successful business fundraiser for brainstrust.jpg

Team Cresset celebrating another successful business fundraiser for brainstrust.jpg

Andrea Moore, fundraising champion for the event with her son James and father.jpg

Andrea Moore, fundraising champion for the event with her son James and father.jpg