Final Call Issued for Runners to Support Pioneering Cancer Hospital at Cambridge Half Marathon
A leading hospital charity has issued a final appeal to runners and aspiring participants to secure their place in this year's TTP Cambridge Half Marathon, with all funds raised dedicated to supporting the construction of a groundbreaking new cancer research hospital in Cambridge. The deadline for final sign-up is January 26, offering a last chance for individuals to contribute to this vital cause.
Transforming Cancer Care Through Fundraising Efforts
Every runner who participates will be raising essential funds for the Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital, a state-of-the-art specialist facility set to serve the East of England. This innovative hospital aims to integrate world-leading research with clinical excellence, fundamentally changing the narrative of cancer treatment and improving patient outcomes across the UK and internationally.
The seven-floor hospital will host three prestigious University of Cambridge research institutes, focusing on:
- Early detection of cancer to improve survival rates.
- Integrated cancer medicine for holistic patient care.
- Precision breast cancer medicine to tailor treatments more effectively.
These initiatives are designed to accelerate medical innovations, bringing new therapies to patients faster, detecting cancers earlier, and enabling more precise treatments.
An Unmissable Bucket-List Running Event
Scheduled for Sunday, March 8, the TTP Cambridge Half Marathon is celebrated as one of the UK's must-do bucket-list races. Participants will enjoy a scenic route that winds through the historic streets of Cambridge, passing by the iconic colleges of Cambridge University, offering a unique and picturesque running experience.
Runners who sign up to support Addenbrooke's Charitable Trust (ACT) are required to pay a £30 registration fee and commit to raising a minimum of £350. In return, they will receive a complimentary ACT running top and benefit from comprehensive support and guidance provided by the ACT fundraising team throughout their journey.
Supporting Healthcare Beyond NHS Provisions
ACT serves as the official hospital charity for Addenbrooke's, funding cutting-edge medical equipment, specialist staff, additional patient comforts, and crucial research projects that extend beyond what the NHS can provide. The charity is actively raising money to support both the Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital and the Cambridge Children's Hospital, highlighting its commitment to advancing healthcare infrastructure.
Last year's event marked a significant milestone for the charity, achieving its highest fundraising total to date with an impressive £150,000 raised. Donna Lee-Willis, Head of Community Fundraising, expressed her passion for the event, stating, "It is really special to us and something we are very passionate about as it is on our doorstep."
Personal Stories and Community Engagement
Many participants in this year's half marathon are motivated by deeply personal and moving reasons for joining the cause. Some of these inspiring stories will be featured in the February episode of ACT's Amazing People series, which airs on Cambridge Radio on the fourth Sunday of each month at midday. Following the broadcast, the episode will be available for streaming on the ACT website, allowing a wider audience to engage with these heartfelt narratives.
Route Highlights and Event Details
The race commences at Jesus Green in central Cambridge, taking runners along some of the city's busiest roads, which will be closed for the event to ensure safety. The route continues over the river, through the historic grounds of Kings College, Queens College, and Corpus Christi College, before entering the picturesque village of Grantchester.
In the final stretch, participants will traverse the beautiful grounds of Jesus College, culminating in a return to Jesus Green. Here, they will be greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of spectators, making this event a highlight in Cambridge's annual calendar.
