Run for their lives

The London Marathon may have been cancelled but Olympic athletes plan to run a virtual 26 miles to raise money for pets abandoned in the coronavirus crisis.

Fatima Whitbread, Roger Black, Helen Clitheroe and Jamie Baulch are among the Olympians backing the Rescue Run, which has been organised by leading pet charity, Blue Cross.

Animal lovers are also being invited to take part in the 26.2-mile race in aid of homeless, abandoned, sick and injured pets in the charity’s care.

Fatima, a former Olympian, World and European javelin champion, said: “My dog Bertie means the world to me.

“Our pets are so important right now, especially as we’re faced with such huge challenges to overcome in every aspect of our lives.

“Keeping fit and healthy while social distancing can be difficult, particularly because people cannot exercise together.

“But Blue Cross’s Rescue Run is a fantastic way to keep fit as part of a virtual community event, with the added benefit of raising funds to help pets.”

It costs £12 to sign up for the Rescue Run, which encourages people to move a mile or more each day to meet the target by running, jogging or walking – either with or without a dog.

Participants can also raise money through sponsorship.

Roger – a 400m Olympic medallist and World and European Champion – said: “Although we are limited in what we can do at the moment, virtual events allow us to keep active while staying safe.

“My dog Howie is part of the family, but there are many pets out there who need Blue Cross’ help, so I am encouraging pet lovers to take on the challenge and sign up to Rescue Run.

“Everyone who completes the virtual marathon will receive a special Blue Cross medal and finisher’s certificate to acknowledge the difference they’ve made to pets in need.”

Tracey Chittock, the charity’s head of community and events, said: “This is a difficult time for everyone but we hope pet lovers will enjoy taking part in our virtual run in aid of pets in need.

“We appreciate every effort people make to support our work caring for those pets who rely on our help.”

To sign up for the virtual run or to make a donation to the Blue Cross, simply visit bluecross.org.uk/ active-challenge/ rescue-run.