(Photo by Vegard Grott)
The tenth annual Santa Dash in Liverpool is on the horizon and event organisers BTR are targeting 9,000 runners in a bid to reclaim the world record from rival city Las Vegas.
The event is the largest of its kind to be held in the UK and last year the run attracted 8,500 entries, helping the ITV Text Santa appeal towards its total of raising £5,000,000.
Ambassadors of the 5K run on Sunday December 1st include MP Steve Rotheram, Beth Tweddle, Ricky Tomlinson, Hollyoaks cast members, plus representatives of Liverpool and Everton football clubs.
As well as the traditional red and white Santa suits, BTR also supply 500 blue and white costumes which have already been allocated for Everton fans. Race Director Alan Rothwell told JMU Journalism that there have been around 2,000 entries so far with one month to go and the hope is to get 9,000 applicants – an increase of 500 on last year’s total.
Mr Rothwell said: “The Santa Dash targets people who normally don’t run and points them toward other 5K and 10K events. Given we have had annual increases in participation from just over 2,000 participants in 2004, it is clear the attraction of the event is the sense of occasion it generates and that is now an integral part of the fun run.”
He added: “The Liverpool Santa Dash removes barriers such as embarrassment and lack of confidence and allows people to experience what it is like to take part in a major event. The fact that all the family can take part is a significant part of the appeal of the event.”
As well as the main fun run, there is also a ‘Mini Dash’ for under 12s. The Santa Dash costs £20 and the Mini Dash £10; both fees include a Santa suit. Runners can enter online or download an application form here.