Organisers 'extremely grateful' to launch 'Move Against Cancer' at Maidenhead parkrun

Organisers are ‘extremely grateful’ after the successful launch of a new initiative that invites people of all ages and abilities to participate in 5K runs in support of those affected by cancer.

The community-focused event, 5K Your Way, is linked to the nationwide parkrun movement and ‘5K Your Way: Move Against Cancer’ launched at Maidenhead parkrun on Saturday, October 25.

More than 30 participants joined the weekly parkrun at Braywick Park to walk, jog, or run in support of those ‘living with and beyond’ cancer.

The launch coincided with Maidenhead parkrun’s 485th event, where people of all ages participated in the 5K, with many registering for the parkrun for the first time.

Event organiser, Patricia Keene, said: “We are extremely grateful to everyone who supported the launch, including the Maidenhead parkrun team.

“The positive response shows there is real demand for inclusive health and wellbeing initiatives that bring people together through movement.”

Attendees gathered at Braywick Leisure Centre café after the event to connect with others and learn more about the national programme.

‘5K Your Way’ was founded by oncologist and ultra-runner, Dr Lucy Gossage, and international athlete Gemma Hill-Moses through the Move Against Cancer charity.

The charity encourages people to remain active and socially connected and ‘move against cancer’ by joining their local parkrun, to ‘celebrate the unstoppable spirit of togetherness’.

Move Against Cancer partners with parkrun events across the country to offer individuals affected by cancer the opportunity to participate in regular, accessible physical activity.

There are now 127 ‘5K Your Way’ groups across the UK, each meeting on the last Saturday of the month in partnership with parkrun.

The Maidenhead launch received strong local backing from Leisure Focus, Burnham Joggers, Vidette, and the Maidenhead parkrun volunteer team.

Ambassadors Hannah Baker, Elaine Lloyd, Ishwant Sahota, Jes Spencer, Patricia Keene, and Nell Neale supported participants throughout the morning, ensuring a welcoming experience for all.

Out of the 440 walkers and runners, 84 were first-time participants, and 29 completed their first-ever parkrun.

Leisure Focus Sports Inclusion and Partnership manager Jatinder Singh Rakhra said: “Leisure Focus is proud to support the 5K Your Way initiative.

“This partnership aligns with our commitment to improving health, well-being, and social connection across the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.

“The launch event demonstrated how collaboration and inclusive opportunities can make a meaningful difference in our communities.”

The next “5K Your Way: Move Against Cancer” event at Maidenhead will take place on Saturday, November 29 at Braywick Park.

Whether walking, jogging, running, volunteering, or simply cheering others on, everyone is invited to take part.

Find out more information and details on how to sign up at www.moveagainstcancer.org/5k-your-way