A popular night-time 5km fun run is returning to Southampton Common on Saturday 23 September, to raise funds for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.
Last September more than 500 participants raised £20,997 was raised – enough to fund six emergency missions. Participants of all ages are encouraged to light up the night with their brightest clothes, fancy dress, neon face-paints and fluorescent glow-sticks to support their local air ambulance.
Runners and walkers of all ages can take part in this family-friendly event, with every penny raised helping the charity to treat the most critically ill and injured patients in the region.
Participants include patients who have first-hand experience of needing the life- saving skills of the air ambulance crew, including Anna Hunt, who said: “I loved last year’s Dash in the Dark, I’ve already signed up to 2023. It’s so important to me to help raise money for the charity that helped me.”
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Director of Income and Engagement, Keith Wilson, said, “We have been night flying since January 2016. Last year, 30% of our emergency calls happened under the cover of darkness. It is only thanks to our dedicated wave of supporters from events such as Dash in the Dark that we can be there for those who need our help. A huge thank you to everyone who continues to champion this event and our charity, helping us save lives every day.”
Since the first Dash in the Dark in 2019, a total of 2,469 people have taken part, raising £127,800 in the process.
Everyone who signs up will recieve a free Dash in the Dark T-shirt. All participants will also receive a glow in the dark medal at the finish line. Check in on the night will open at 6pm. The warm up will start at 7pm, with the 5km dash beginning at 7.15pm, as darkness falls. The route is softly lit and paved throughout, though head torches are recommended.
Adult tickets cost £20 and children (5-15 years) £16. Every penny raised goes towards keeping the air ambulance charity on the frontline and saving lives. Tickets can be purchased via: www.hiowaa.org/event/dash-in-the-dark-southampton-2023/.