Reflections on the OX5 RUN 2022 and why it is such a great team event!
There are many reasons why the OX5 RUN is one of the highlights of our year. Not only does it raise vital funds for Oxford Children's Hospital but it also brings people together, creates shared experiences, strengthens relationships, builds camaraderie and gives us all a deeper appreciation of what it means to be a team. We have always been proud to sponsor the five mile fun run through the beautiful grounds of Blenheim Palace, but this year felt extra special as it was the first time we'd been able to take part as a team since before the pandemic broke out. To top it off, the sun shone brightly and the sense of community among all the participants and spectators was amazing. Check out our photos and find out what our consultants had to say about the day.
The OX5 RUN 2022 set a new record in its 20th anniversary year with a teenage brother and sister becoming the first siblings in the event's history to win the fastest male and fastest female accolades.
Henry Channon, aged 16, crossed the finishing line first in 28 minutes, 23 seconds, while his sister Emily Channon, aged 13, followed shortly afterwards in 34 minutes and 20 seconds.
The biggest team to enter was Woodstock Primary School with 53 runners, while businesses such as ours also entered teams and ran alongside groups of families and friends as well as individual entrants. All in all, 544 people took part in support of Oxford Children's Hospital, with the final amount raised still to be announced.
Team Allen Associates had a great run. We asked our colleagues to comment on their experiences and share the highlights.
Managing director, Kate Allen: “We had a really enjoyable time. The sun was shining and everyone was excited to be together again as a team and to run for such a fantastic cause. Most of us managed to run all the way round the course and came in very close to the one hour mark. A couple of our team members were impressive and completed very fast runs! It was also lovely to see so many of our Oxfordshire contacts at the event, many of whom we’ve not seen in person for over two years. We are incredibly proud to be part of this wonderful event.”
Finance director Rob Allen: “What a great day! It was so good to get back to the ‘real’ run rather than a ‘virtual’ one and the weather provided a perfect welcome back. Seeing so many people committing to giving their time and energy to supporting a fantastic cause was brilliant and we can’t wait for next year now! Here’s hoping we raise huge amounts for this great charity.”
Recruitment consultant Lucy Saunders: "I absolutely loved doing the OX5 RUN, the weather was great and the atmosphere was incredible - so fun and supportive! The race itself was challenging – especially the last mile! I’d slowed down a fair bit there, but when Lizzie overtook me it spurred me on, and I ended up getting a personal best which I’m very happy about. I’d like to do it again next year if I can, so better keep up the fitness!"
Recruitment resourcer Lizzie Payne: "I had an amazing time at the OX5 RUN. This was my first year running and there couldn’t have been a nicer day for it! The sun was shining, everyone was raring to go and the comradery as we went round (not just from our own team, but everyone taking part) was immense. It’s been lovely to run for such a great cause and I’m hoping to be back next year with a better time!"
Senior recruitment consultant Joanne Scholes: "I did the OX5 RUN with my daughter and Border Terrier and so their little legs worked very hard to get around the course with lots of sniffing and tail wagging and lead tangles with fellow dogs along the way to add to the fun!
We got over the finish line in 1hr 15 and there was a great atmosphere and people cheering others on. It was a great event, smiles everywhere you looked and we will be back again next year to do it again for such a good cause."
Recruitment consultant Charlie Clark: "The weather was beautiful and with it being the first time my partner and I had done the run, we really enjoyed the views around Blenheim. Having not done much training and not being a runner, I took a walk, run, walk, run approach, and surprisingly managed to get through the five miles, although I am very sore today! I would definitely recommend it and look forward to beating my time next year!"
Associate director Eleanor Bromage: "We had a wonderful day, the atmosphere was as fun and exciting as ever and the camaraderie from the Allen Associates team was a great boost to us all! The course was hard work but so beautiful, it was a thoroughly enjoyable way to get involved in such a vital charity in Oxfordshire. Already looking forward to next year!"
The 2022 event marked the 13th year of Allen Associates' involvement, as sponsors and participants. Commenting afterwards, Gail Williams, Events Manager at Oxford Hospitals Charity, said: "A huge thank you to everyone who came and supported the OX5 RUN in support of the Oxford Children's Hospital. It was great to see so many families, local businesses and staff from across our hospitals come together and run, walk, or jog five miles around a very sunny Blenheim Palace. We'd like to thank Oxfordshire-based recruitment agency Allen Associates, our hosts Blenheim Palace and JACK FM Oxfordshire for their support in making this event possible."
If you or your business would like to find out more or get involved in 2023, please contact Kate Allen or visit the Oxford Hospitals Charity website.
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