The Blue Cross
Have you dreamed of taking part in a half marathon but keep putting it off? Or have you taken part in 10k runs and now feel ready to step up a gear? Well now is your chance to test your limits and help needy pets by teaming up with Britain’s pet charity, The Blue Cross, to take part in this new and exciting half marathon on 12 October this year.
The Blue Cross will help you every step of the way to reach your personal target for this landmark event, whether you sprint like a greyhound, crawl like a tortoise, or hop like a rabbit.
About The Blue Cross
The Blue Cross provides a range of services for pet owners across the UK. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals also provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees. The Blue Cross does not receive any government funding and relies entirely on contributions from the public to continue its vital work caring for animals across the country.
Securing a Blue Cross place
The Blue Cross has a limited number of running places available. By pledging to raise our minimum sponsorship of £550, a place on The Blue Cross team could be yours.
For each mile you run the money you raise will pay for essential care at The Blue Cross:
• 1 mile = £25 will pay for the vaccinations kittens need to protect them from life-threatening diseases
• 3 mile = £100 will care for a cat at one of our adoption centres for a month
• 6 mile = £150 will buy a folding cage for use in animal ambulances
• 9 mile = £250 will cover basic veterinary health treatments for each horse that comes into one of our equine centres
• 13.5 miles= £447 will care for a dog during it’s stay in one of our adoption centres.
Who to contact?
For further information and to apply for one of our guaranteed places, or to inform us that you have your own place and you would like to join our team, please contact:
Heather Collin on 01993 825567 or email: events@bluecross.org.uk.
Alternatively you can download the application form by clicking here
What we offer Blue Cross runners
Once you’ve joined The Blue Cross team we will provide you with a runners pack crammed with top tips on training and preparation for the big day, plenty of fundraising ideas to help you meet your sponsorship target, a running vest and an invitation to our post race reception.
Train with your dog
With us, your dog can also benefit from your training runs. Although dogs are not allowed to take part in the half marathon, we will provide you with plenty of tips for training with your pooch in the lead up to the race. So if you have a restless retriever, an athletic Airedale, or a speedy spaniel, then why not join in the fun and make a real difference as part of our team. 
How your place will help The Blue Cross
Georgie the lurcher was a year old when he was brought in as a stray to The Blue Cross adoption centre in Tiverton. Having broken his front leg, which left him with a limp, Georgie also suffered from a hip condition which increased his chances of developing arthritis.
Dubbed a ‘last chance dog’ because of his ill-health, things were not looking good for Georgie. However, despite the odds, his happy and playful nature ensured he was rehomed as a foster dog. Georgie loves his new home, has settled in well and has earned the affectionate nickname 'Squeaky'.
