Army Of Santas Run Across Chiswick

Part of Hogarth Health Club's charity festive fun run

Hogarth Health Club recently held a charity fun run in Chiswick with volunteers in Santa costumes. The run 'between the bridges' raised nearly £600 for homeless charity Shelter, as recounted by Voj, a member of the team.

It was a misty morning. Small children were out in force around the River Thames. The sight of more than 50 bearded men in red running past them, was a different experience to the one they had in Westfield, in Santa’s grotto. A look of “What the hell is this mummy?” spread across the faces of the bewildered future Hogarth members.

The adult bystanders were not averse to a reaction either. “Can I sit on your knee Santa?”, “I’ve been very naughty this year!” and “You’ve lost Rudolph!” Actually he was doing pilates back at the club, lovely guy. The white van men, known for their discretion, were tooting their horns like they had just walked in on the Miss World pageant. “Nice kits!” they shouted. Red is my colour actually. The atmosphere was tremendous, it was communal and we all had a blast! Four and a half miles and full of smiles.

A big thank you to all the men, women and two dogs that came out suited and booted for a brilliant day. The two bridge course, via Barnes and Hammersmith has been a familiar trodden path for the Hogarth nation over the years. But this was the first and definitely not last attempt dressed as the Red and White Army. The mulled wine and the mince pies back at the club were just reward for making a great effort. Of course it was all for a special cause too. Shelter, the charity for the homeless seemed an appropriate foundation to support at this time of year and we managed to raise just short of £600 so far.

Whether you walked or ran, whether you stopped off at a pub along the way or not, you were fantastic! There are few things better at The Hogarth, which we go on to remember, than great events like this which pit together staff and member. The family feeling out there was heart-warming, and the generosity of spirit was abundant.

You might say it’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas.

December 22, 2016