In September, Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire announced its renewed support for The Terry Fox Foundation as it prepares for the official Terry Fox Run UK 2023.
On September 24, 2023, participants from all over the country will gather to walk or run on the scenic Hampshire grounds, covering either a 2k or 5k route, all in the spirit of supporting cancer research.
Registration for the event will commence at 12:00 noon, followed by the start of the run at 1:00 pm.
The Terry Fox Runs, which take place worldwide, are inclusive events, free to enter, and non-competitive, welcoming individuals of all abilities, paying tribute to the renowned Canadian figure, Terry Fox.
In addition to the run itself, attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy live entertainment, refreshments, and food, creating a family-friendly atmosphere.
Volunteers will be present to provide further information about the Terry Fox Foundation’s work in the UK and the Institute of Cancer Research, London.
The inspiring story behind the Terry Fox Run originates from Terry Fox, a 22-year-old athlete who battled osteogenic sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, resulting in the amputation of his leg.
In 1980, Terry gained international attention by embarking on a 143-day run spanning 3,339 miles (5,374 kilometres) across Canada to raise funds and awareness for cancer research.
Known as the “Marathon of Hope,” Terry’s initial plan was to run across the entire country, but unfortunately, he had to end his journey prematurely on September 1, 1980, due to the cancer spreading to his lungs.
Throughout the Marathon of Hope, Terry astoundingly averaged a marathon distance every day, showcasing a distinctive running style while utilizing a prosthetic leg.
Less than a year later, he passed away after raising CAD 24 million, achieving his goal of collecting one dollar for every Canadian at that time.
Moved by Terry’s story, Isadore Sharp, the Founder and Chairman of Four Seasons, personally pledged support for Terry’s cause. He wrote to 999 other Canadian executives, urging them to join the fight against cancer research. Unfortunately, Terry succumbed to the disease the following year.
The inaugural Terry Fox Run took place in 1981, organized by Isadore Sharp and Four Seasons. Today, more than 9,000 Terry Fox Runs occur annually worldwide, all led and organized by volunteers. Collectively, these events have raised over GBP 500 million to date.
In the UK, the Terry Fox Association has formed a partnership with The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), a prominent organization dedicated to cancer research for over a century, with an outstanding record of academic excellence in discoveries.
By collaborating with the ICR, all funds raised by the UK charity remain within the country, contributing to cancer research efforts.
Those interested in making donations for this year’s Terry Fox Run UK can do so through the provided link.
Individuals interested in participating in the Four Seasons Hampshire event can register for free by accessing the registration link.
Additionally, Terry Fox t-shirts for 2023 can be purchased with or without registration. On-site registration will also be available before the run.
Andrew Harrison, the General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire, expressed his delight in bringing back the Terry Fox Run to Hampshire this September.
He emphasized Isadore Sharp’s commitment to hosting an annual run, and it is an honour to uphold this tradition. Over the past 43 years, more than CAD 850 million (GBP 500 million) has been raised globally to support Terry’s enduring legacy of funding cancer research.
Neil Johnson, Chair of the UK Terry Fox Association, shared his enthusiasm for Four Seasons Hampshire hosting the 2023 Terry Fox Run, just as it has done in previous years.
Since 2020, the event has gained significant momentum, representing the iconic charitable cause in honour of Terry Fox, a hero from Canada.
Johnson proudly stated that all funds raised in the UK remain within the country to support the world-class cancer research organization, The Institute of Cancer Research.
In the past years alone, the generosity of the British people has resulted in an incredible GBP 200,000 raised. He eagerly anticipates another successful fundraising year in collaboration with their partners, Four Seasons Hampshire.