MABS RACE FOR LIFE
A glorious day greeted MABS Murcia/Mar Menor Race for Life participants in Los Alcázares last Sunday. Almost 350 people turned up to run, walk, go by wheelchair or electric scooter, and one young lady got her dad to push her in a wheelbarrow.
Charlotte Airey had an operation on her foot 2 days before the race, but desperately wanted to take part so dad, Paul, agreed to wheel her all the way. Not content with this, Charlotte insisted on doing the last few metres under her own steam with crutches – well done Charlotte! Many others came in fancy dress or pink wigs and bras, joining in the fun spirit of this annual MABS fundraiser. “The event gets bigger every year” said Fundraising Co-ordinator, Janet Bell, “and it was lovely to see so many people lined up at the start. We've even had passers-by donating money, because they couldn't take part.”
Before the race began, there was a one minute silence to remember all those who have given their lives in the service of their country. MABS Director, Lyn Baines, started the race, and then made a dash by motor scooter to welcome everyone over the finish line. “I'd like to thank all the MABS volunteers who have worked so hard to make this event the success that it is every year and the Ayuntamiento of Los Alcázares who give us such great support with equipment and the emergency services; also the lovely Zigi, who helps everyone warm up before each race.” she said. “But, most of all, we are so grateful to everyone for coming down on a Sunday morning to take part, and a special thanks to Exite Radio, who have attended every race since we started three years ago.”
People came from as far afield as the UK: Geraldine and Helen Lynch came all the way from Wales and London respectively, just to run in the MABS Race for Life. Kerry Lawrie made a special trip from Glasgow, to run in memory of her dad, Ronnie. Maggie Diaz, a breast cancer survivor, came with friends Lillian Gleadell and Doris Fletcher supporting her. Audrey Hague, despite having broken her foot leaving her line dance rehearsal, was determined to take part, so friends Barbara and James Upshon came along with her to help.
Other entrants came from Torrevieja, La Manga, Cehegin and Calasparra, so the popularity of this event is certainly spreading. More and more Spanish residents are joining in too - Elvira Gonzalez, who is in her sixties and lives in Los Alcázares, took part for the first time this year and thoroughly enjoyed herself, promising to do it again in 2011.
MABS believes that they could well top the 7,600€ figure collected from the 2009 race. Sponsorship money will be coming in gradually over the next few weeks, but the total has already reached 4,500€. “We're overwhelmed by the generosity and support we receive from the public and we owe them a huge thanks for turning out today. It's been a pleasure to see everyone enjoying themselves.” remarked Lyn.
Placings in the race were as follows: Men: 1st Danny Reilly, 2nd Jason Fieldhouse, 3rd Philip Grimes. Women: 1st Clara Marin, 2nd Pilar Hernandez Martinez, 3rd Kerry Lawrie, 4th Janet Cockings. Children: 1st Travis Preston, 2nd Scarlett Wilson, 3rd Millie Airey.
MABS Murcia/Mar Menor helps all people in the Murcia/Mar Menor area who are affected by cancer, providing drivers, translators, information leaflets, equipment, a listening ear, or a shoulder to lean on. If you want to volunteer, donate or you need help, you can contact MABS on 693 275 779 or visit our website: www.mabsmurcia.com
Photo credit to: Digital Camera Club, Los Alcázares