Tower Run steps up funds for LOROS

BIGGER and better were the bywords for the third annual Loros Tower Run, with record numbers of competitors stepping-up to the challenge.

Nearly 400 people took part, which is more than double the figures from last year.

Set in Leicester city centre’s iconic St George’s Tower, the event witnessed another record-breaker when Mark Sims, previous stair-climbing champion, lost his title to newcomer Elliot Slaughter with a challenge best time of 1.27.9 minutes.

And in the female division, Sarah Frost smashed the previous record of 2.06.93 minutes as she finished at 1.49 minutes.

Winner Elliot said: “There was a lot of strong competition at the event this year so the win initially came as a real shock.

“But I’m absolutely delighted to kick start my competitive tower running career with a win.

“The event was fantastic. Considering how many people were running up the staircase in such a short amount of time I thought the event ran smoothly. The organisers did a great job and there was such a positive atmosphere around the venue.”

Entrants had the option to walk or run up the 351 steps to the top, competitively or not, in order to raise money for Loros Hospice.

Loros events lead, Andrew Ward, who also took part on the day said: “The atmosphere was just incredible. We had 384 people take part compared to 160 entrants last year and it was a real mix, from the competitive run- ners, to those who wanted to walk and those who were trying to beat their personal best.

“It feels like a tower run community, everyone was really supportive. I’m already looking forward to next year.”

The run is the largest of its kind in the East Midlands, and the biggest outside of London - people from all ages took part with the youngest being seven and the oldest 72.

For more information, or to sign up to next year’s event contact fundraising@loros.co.uk