Run to the Future event to champion diversity at London's Olympic Park
While Paris’ superb summer of sport has now drawn to a close, the Paralympic and Olympic flames will still light up London in spirit this weekend.
On Sunday 15 September, the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford – the iconic hub for the 2012 Paralympic and Olympic Games – will celebrate diversity with an inclusive mass participation run. Known as Run to the Future, this event will encompass a 5K as well as a 2km option, and is open to people of all backgrounds and abilities.
Run to the Future has teamed up with two British role models, former athlete Richard Whitehead and DJ and broadcaster Adele Roberts, to encourage as many people as possible – especially those from underrepresented communities – to make their way to East London to take part.
Supported by Nissan, the event will start and finish at the London Stadium and see people run, jog, walk, roll or push their way around their chosen course – whatever they wish.
Trained Support Runners from the Richard Whitehead Foundation will be at the venue to help disabled people to complete the course and overcome any challenges that they may encounter during the day. Available to request at sign-up, the Trained Support Runners will also be on hand to offer holistic support to all participants throughout the event.
Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Richard Whitehead Foundation, which works hard to help disabled people participate in sport and, as a result, enjoy the life-changing benefits that it brings.
Whitehead and Roberts – who are both diversity, equity and inclusion ambassadors for Nissan GB – are excited to spearhead Sunday’s event and shine a light on people from all communities.
‘Disabled people sometimes don’t feel confident enough to enter sporting events,’ says Whitehead, the half marathon world record holder for athletes with a double amputation. ‘As a former athlete and distance runner, I feel that it’s something we should change.
‘Whatever the race, and whatever the distance, it’s always a chance to give back to the running community and inspire the disability community, so I’d encourage people to sign up for the event and give it a go!’
Roberts, who is the fastest-ever woman to complete the London Marathon with a stoma bag, having clocked 3:30:22 at the event in 2023, echoes this sentiment. ‘Everyone should be comfortable to participate in or attend any sporting event, so we’re aiming to create an inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community and our allies, family and friends. I can’t wait to take part and see everyone there.’
This year’s Run to the Future will take place at the London Stadium in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park on Sunday 15 September. The 5K run will set off at 10:30am, while the 2km run will start at 12pm. Entries cost £15 and include chip timing, a medal for all finishers and more post-race goodies. You can register your place in the event here.
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