Dave Wright races raised funds for Colchester’s GO4 Cafe

MORE than 100 athletes laced up their running shoes and raised funds for Colchester’s GO4 Cafe.

The Dave Wright 7.5/15-mile road race started and finished at Langham Community Centre.

Mr Wright is a stalwart of Colchester Harriers Athletics Club and the races carrying his name were hosted and organised by Craig Mitchell.

Been there, run that, but where's the T-shirt? - Aaron Marley Picture: Liam Winters/LW Photography

There were staggered start time so runners could head off in groups of six and £500 has subsequently been donated to the cafe at Old Heath recreation ground, in Recreation Road.

The cafe is heavily involved with schemes to help vulnerable members of the Colchester community.

It has distributed hot meals and food parcels throughout the pandemic and one of its projects is helping feed needy children during school holidays.

Taking a breather - marshal Andy Jobling Picture: Liam Winters/LW Photography

Mr Mitchell has his own events company - Craig’s Events - and, since starting three years ago, his fundraisers have led to charity donations totalling more than £8,000.

“This was our first event since lockdown, with nearly 150 people taking part and athletes coming from as far as Norwich,” he said.

“It was challenging but went down well and everyone loved it.

Race winner - Springfield Strider Chris Burgoyne strode to glory in the 15-mile event Picture: Liam Winters/LW Photography

“The atmosphere was amazing, with lots of people outside their homes supporting the runners.”

In the 7.5-mile race, the men’s winner was Colchester Harrier Tom Cresswell, in a time of 44 minutes and 24 seconds.

Laura Hubbard, of Hadleigh Hares, was the leading lady in 49m 6s. In the 15-mile race, the winner was Springfield Strider Chris Burgoyne, in 1h 25m 34s.

The first female was Tiptree Road Runners’ Danielle Harrington, in 1h 47m 35s.