Ignite coaches to run Oxford Half Marathon in aid of local charity Thomley

A team of sports coaches who work to inspire people to reach their full potential through physical activity are tackling the Oxford Half Marathon in aid of a local charity. 

Ignite Sport UK colleagues will complete the city’s 13.1-mile course on Sunday, October 17, in support of Thomley.  

Established in 1997 and formally registered four years later, Thomley has been enhancing the wellbeing of disabled people via activities that develop essential life skills for almost two decades.  

In the year before the COVID-19 pandemic, Thomley’s activity centre welcomed 12,000 visitors to its Worminghall-based eight-acre site which it successfully acquired the freehold to 10 years ago.  

Our team of runners plan to raise £1,750 for the charity by completing the course which begins at Broad Street, near Trinity College, and ends on Park Road.  

Hannah Bladen, General Manager of Ignite Sport UK, said she is looking forward to running Oxford’s streets in aid of a good cause.  

“There are so many incredible regional charities that have suffered through the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said. “Thomley’s’ work helps provide facilities and support services to people living with disabilities while protecting the health of carers who always do such a fantastic job looking after others.  

“I am pleased my colleagues have joined together to run the Oxford Half Marathon and put their fitness to the test after a long summer of programme delivery in schools and on-site at Oxford City FC.  

“Overcoming challenges via the support of teammates and those around us reflects what we deliver at Ignite Sport UK, so I am confident we will all be able to give the half-marathon our best shot.  

“We would like to wish everyone taking part on the day and raising funds for worthwhile local and national causes the very best of luck.”  

Joe Kitchen, Operations Manager at Thomley, added: “Thomley simply wouldn’t exist without the support of our community.  

“We are delighted that Ignite Sport UK staff are taking part in the Oxford Half Marathon on our behalf. The funds raised will be vital for Thomley to continue offering a unique and specialised service for disabled people.  

“It costs over half a million pounds every year to run the Charity, so we can’t thank Hannah and Ignite Sport UK enough for representing and supporting us at this brilliant event.” 

Ignite Sport UK is a registered training provider for sport and education qualifications, working in further education, apprenticeships, and adult education. It is the official community partner of Oxford City FC.  

To support the team’s efforts at this year’s Oxford Half Marathon, please visit Virgin Money Giving | Ignite Sport UK Runners.