More than 200 people took to the streets in Birmingham for the BAPS Charities Annual 10K Challenge on Sunday 11 May 2014.
Each year, BAPS Charities organises a fun and healthy charity event for individuals to unite as a community to support a worthy cause. At several towns and cities around the UK, around 4,000 enthusiastic men, women and children of all ages – ranging from toddlers through to senior citizens in their nineties – walk, jog and even run a distance of 10 kilometres to raise funds and awareness for a variety of good causes.
This year’s event partnered nationally with Diabetes UK, the leading charity that cares for, connects with and campaigns on behalf of every person affected by or at risk of diabetes – including the 3.8 million people in the UK that are currently diagnosed with the disease. In addition, BAPS Charities also raised funds for Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice to support their commendable work in the local community.
The Challenge this year builds on 20 years of sponsored events. Previous national charity partners have included Macmillan Cancer Research, Barnardo’s, The Anthony Nolan Trust, The British Heart Foundation, Breast Cancer Care, Age UK, KIDS, as well as Diabetes UK.
The event kicked-off shortly after 11am from BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Birmingham in the presence of Mayor of Solihull Cllr Joe Tildesley, Cllr Paula Smith, and Ellen Jurczak from Diabetes UK.
Addressing the gathering, The Mayor said: “I really admire all the charities you have sponsored, especially St Mary’s Hospice. I wish you all the best and enjoy the day.”
After the opening ceremony, walkers, joggers and runners moved along the route through Hall Green.
One of the participants, Sima Shingadia, spoke of how enjoyable the day had been. “Today I did the walk with my daughter, Swamini. She is 10 months old and we both had a wonderful day walking with other parents and their children. It was her first of many 10K Challenges.”
BAPS Charities volunteer Vasant Parikh added: “All those who participate every year have encouraged others to take part and make a difference in the lives of many more. We are really pleased with the support received from our neighbours and the local community.”
To learn more about the work of Diabetes UK, please click here.
To learn about Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice, please click here.
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