On Sunday 22nd September, we headed to Priory Park for the annual Run Reigate event. We are beyond proud of our 58 amazing runners who not only represented Stripey Stork but also helped raise a record-breaking amount for us. Their collective efforts made this year’s Run Reigate the best yet.
£18,903.33
*Total to date – after costs and including gift aid (but before fundraising platform fees)
Team Stork runners
Our runners ranged from dedicated individuals to corporate teams, as well as children and their families, all rallying for Stripey Stork. We’re so grateful to…
Individual superstars: Hakan (5k), Sam (10k), Jackie (10k), Emily (10k), Chris (10k), Becky (10k), Megan (10k), Ned (10k), Luke (1/2), Sam (1/2), Will (1/2), Henrik (1/2), Hazel (1/2), Lucas (1/2), Tom (1/2), Jon (1/2), Ben (1/2)
Team Unum: Kate (10k), Ty (10k), Adam (10k), Lilly (10k)
Team Total Energies: Sarah (5k), Anna (5k), Ana (5k), Robert (5k), Katie (10k), Palak (10k), Michael (10k), Ross (1/2), Josh (1/2)
Team ABL1 Touch: Hannah (5k), Nicola (5k), Steph (5k), Natalie (5k), Tony (5k), David (5k), Sean (5k), Kieran (1/2), Dave (1/2)
Team Powertutors: Naz (10k), Erick (10k), Lauren (10k), Stuart (1/2), Hayden (1/2)
Team Caytons Law: Charlotte (5k), Alex (5k), Amy (1/2)
Our young runners: Millie, Max & Milo, Annaliese, Ed & Effie, Saoirse & Orla, K & N, Nasia, Matty.
Thanks to everyone who sponsored them, giving them the inspiration to make it over the finish line.
Build-up to the big day
With a full team this year, including some newly connected to Stripey Stork, we decided to host a pre-race event in early September. This allowed everyone the opportunity to connect, learn how their fundraising directly impacts families and gear up for the big day.
20 lucky runners had been entered into our early bird prize draw to win a set of Stripey Stork race bib clips. We were excited to hand them out with their goody bags and even more excited to see them being used on the day.
On the day
Despite stormy forecasts, the rain clouds cleared just in time for the event, setting the perfect stage for our runners. Energy was building and we were Ready, Steady, Go!
Our stall was a hive of activity all day. Our signature orange gazebo and sparkly new van were a hit, providing the perfect backdrop to our winner’s podium and drawing in curious crowds eager to learn about our cause.
The teddy tombola delighted children and parents alike, with over 100 furry friends finding new homes.
Sam and Jackie took flight
Sam and Jackie outdid themselves once again with their custom-made Run Reigate outfits. Their vibrant and creative look was a highlight, bringing smiles and raising even more awareness for Stripey Stork.
They had an ingenious idea to put together two luxurious beauty hampers and give raffle tickets to all those who sponsored them, giving their fundraising an enormous boost.
Team Stork cheerleaders
As well as raising our profile on our stand, we had Team Stork groupies (with mascot Stripey) positioned near the finish. They made sure all our runners had a shout out and high five on the homerun. We even caught the attention of the race commentator, as the mic found its way to us and we had our moment of fame.
Credit (above): Karen Gray Photography
Then we gave our runners the final applause they deserved back at the stand, along with their congratulatory certificate.
Special shout outs
All-round superstar – Jon from Celtic Contractors – is our top fundraiser for Run Reigate 2024. Despite feeling under the weather on the day, his determination and dedication shone through. Time and time again we feel the love from the Celtic family, and it was great to have Saoirse and Orla join in too.
The Run Reigate Half Marathon is only the warm-up for Ben from Reigate Squash Club. At the beginning of October he’s also taking on the Lisbon Marathon for Stripey Stork. We wish him the best of luck in his Marathon and a Half challenge, and feel sure he’ll succeed with his endless energy and drive.
Thanks to our corporate groups – Unum, Total Energies, ABL1 Touch, Powertutors, Caytons Law – they did a fantastic job drumming up support with colleagues, business contacts, friends and family. They really are part of the Stripey Stork family and we’re lucky to have them.
Our very own Hazel – Stripey Stork’s Finance Officer – took on a big challenge this year to do the Run Reigate Half Marathon. As dedicated as ever, she trained during the summer heat as well as the downpours, and we’re so pleased she chose to do it for us. She deserved the hero’s welcome we gave her at the end, and the endless cups of tea the next day.
Thank you to all our fabulous volunteers who helped on the day: Ann, Lois, Emma (and the boys), Heather, Rowena, Sarah S, Sara, Sarah M, Nicola, Maxine, Susy, Elaine and Sophie.
We are grateful to Rand Associates based on Reigate, who made a generous donation to Stripey Stork on the day for their four runners taking part. Thank you for thinking of us, here they are on our winner’s podium.
Thanks to Kevin – even though he couldn’t do Run Reigate this year, he kept his word and wore his Stripey Stork t-shirt at the Eridge Park 10 Trail Challenge event near Tunbridge Wells. He had quite a few comments by all accounts, so thank you for helping to spread the word.
Thanks to Peter from The Planet Reigate Podcast for the interview for their special Run Reigate feature (episode 55, 29 minutes) and BBC Radio Sussex for speaking with some of our runners about what it means to be on Team Stork.
Finally, thanks to the ever-resilient Run Series team, who always deliver such a great community event. A special mention to Claire for all her support.
Feeling inspired to join Run Reigate 2025? We’d love to have you on Team Stork. Email partnerships@stripeystork.org.uk to secure your spot for next year.
