In 'normal' times the annual Royal Parks Half Marathon - presented by Royal Bank of Canada - starts and finishes in London's beautiful Hyde Park and the route takes in four of the eight Royal Parks in the capital. The route is lined with supporters, there is music and cheering and the roads are closed to traffic. the event is considered a fabulous way to see the Capital's world-famous landmarks.

However, due to the ongoing pandemic, the 2020 race had to be postponed and was due to take place on the 11th April 2021. As the day approached it was evident that, due to COVID-19 restrictions, this would not be possible, however the event organisers unveiled a ground-breaking digital event experience that allowed runners to participate using the green spaces near their homes.  Those signed up were provided with a race day atmosphere via a newly developed app.  A couple of our existing runners agreed to take part and we were then contacted by another three who were up for the challenge.

On the day we had five amazing ladies running the 13.1 miles. Heartfelt thanks go to all our wonderful runners Amy, Claire, Hollie, Kyra and Lauren and to your fabulous supporters. Taking on this distance is a challenge at the best of times but to achieve it without the roar of a crowd or a DJ at the finish line is quite something. 

Perhaps these wonderful photos or the thought of achieving something special inspires you to put on your trainers or jump on your bike and undertake a challenge on behalf of HCUK.  if so, why not grab a coffee and browse our Events page to see if anything there takes your fancy.  

Without people like you our work to raise awareness, increase early detection and save lives just wouldn't be possible.

You are all amazing and we really can't thank you enough!