Less than two weeks left to register for Castle chase

Sunday 27 August 2017

Registration for the first Hawksford Castle chase closes in a little under two weeks and the event sponsor is appealing to businesses to encourage their staff to tie up their laces and dash to Elizabeth Castle and back on 6 September.

The unique and never-been-done-before challenge is part of the Love Your Castle campaign launched by Jersey Heritage to raise awareness of both the historical and environmental value of Elizabeth Castle.

The event aims to bring islanders together to highlight the importance of protecting this historic landmark in the bay. The four mile relay event will be run in pairs at lunchtime on 6 September. The race is suitable for runners of all abilities - experienced as well as first time runners are all welcome.

All funds raised will be allocated to Jersey Heritage restoration projects, which include the restoration of the Barracks Hospital building within the castle grounds, currently closed to the public.

Twenty-seven Hawksford team members will be taking part – either as runners or as marshals. Hawksford hopes its corporate neighbours will follow suit and encourage their employees to sign up for what will be a lunchtime of fun and friendly rivalry.

Michael Powell, director at Hawksford, will be taking part in the race. He said: "Elizabeth Castle is such an integral part of the southern coastline and a view which those of us who work on The Esplanade enjoy every day, either on our way to and from work, or from our buildings. My genuine wish is to see the profile of the castle raised among the local community. Hopefully this event will be a step in that direction."

Regular runner Ryan Crawford, senior business development executive at Hawksford said: "The best thing about running in Jersey is the scenery and the castles are such an iconic part of it. I’m looking forward to running on the mixture of tarmac, sand and castle!"

Mellissa Morris, senior company and trust administrator at Hawksford, added: "I haven’t run for a few years so I thought this would be the perfect challenge to motivate me to get into running again and so far it’s working! Now I’m just really looking forward to enjoying the challenge and doing it for such a great cause."

Entry to the race is £40 for a team of two or £35 for Jersey Heritage Corporate members. Registration can be done online before 4 September.