The George Skeates Fun Run was once again held in Stockbridge, Hampshire on Sunday 12th January 2020, marking the 33rd year of the event.
The run is an annual cross-country event for runners, walkers and mountain bikers, with both a 3-mile route and an 8-mile route to choose from. The shorter course is mainly tarmac, whilst the longer course is slightly muddier, so whether competitors were looking for a challenge or just fancied getting back to nature this January, there was something for everyone.
Following the race, refreshments were served and a raffle was held in Stockbridge Town Hall, where everyone had the opportunity to warm up and celebrate their achievement with family, friends and the local community.
History
The first Stockbridge Fun Run was held in 1986 and was organised by Michael Crossman in order to raise money for champion sidecar racer George Skeates, who had suffered a severe spinal injury in a racing accident in 1985. Since then, the event has grown to raise tens of thousands of pounds for charity.
All the money raised from each event goes to the George Skeates Benevolent Fund, with beneficiaries including spinal charity Inspire, Wessex Heartbeat and Horatio’s Garden. As George was treated for his spinal injury in Salisbury District Hospital, he continues to be steadfast in his support of the centre and charities associated with it. In addition, Jeremy Crossman added Wessex Heartbeat to the list of beneficiaries after his father passed away from heart disease in 1994. He now organises the event and continues to passionately uphold his father’s wonderful legacy.
