A CHRISTMAS event complete with a 'Santa Run', 'beat the goalie', crafts and more is taking place this December to raise money for a sports charity.
Following the success of the colour run held by GT Sports Academy this summer, which raised more than £2,500, owners of the sports coaching company, Tyler Bradley and George Metzger, are planning their next event - a Santa Run.
The short-distance run will see participants wearing Christmas-themed outfits compete against each other to raise money for a charity set up by the pair themselves called Sporting Health.
With a number of other activities including a 'beat the goalie' challenge, crafts stalls and various local food caterers on hand, the event promises to bring Christmas cheer to all involved.
READ MORE: Organisers bowled over as colour run at cricket ground raises thousands
Tyler told the Gazette: "We've set up the event effectively to launch our charity, Sporting Health which will allow us to make sport more accessible for all by helping to reduce the financial barrier.
"We felt due to the time of year it would be a great opportunity to try and get lots of people together for a large Christmas celebration while promoting sport and health at the same time.
"The main part of the event will be our Santa Run where everyone will dress up in their Christmassy outfits for a short-distance run. For the remainder of the day we will have stalls open and challenges running."
The 22-year-old entrepreneurs set up GT Sports Academy in 2022, focusing on the teaching of all sports, and specialising in cricket. Having achieved success with their business venture, they now look to give back to the community they grew up in, using their charity to provide essential resources, including sports equipment, facilities, and coaching to those less fortunate.
Tyler added: "It has been tough due to the upcoming time of year arranging stalls and making sure we have everything in place to make this event a great success.
"We do hope with each and every event we run they become bigger and bigger and more and more successful. We feel filling the void of not having an event in winter is a great way to keep the spirit of sport high throughout the year."
In terms of food, the pair have currently organised for a number of local vendors to cater the event including Greek Street, the Pizzatron and The Coffee Box.
Tyler said: "We are also waiting to hear from a few more vendors."
Craft lovers can enjoy a henna stall, handmade crafts and much more.
"We will also be having our own sports games, such as beat the goalie, football fastest kick, rugby passing and much more," said Tyler.
Money raised at the event will go towards Sporting Health, a charity the pair set up this year.
Tyler said: "We believe that participation in sports fosters physical health, mental well-being, and community spirit. Our foundation is dedicated to breaking down financial and social barriers that prevent people from engaging in sports activities.
"By organizing free sports programs, workshops, and events, we aim to inspire a love for physical activity and teamwork while promoting inclusivity and diversity in sports.
"Together, we can create a healthier, more active society where everyone has the opportunity to play, compete, and thrive."
The free fundraising event will take place on Sunday, December 22 at Basingstoke Cricket Club. To enter the colour run, it will cost £5 per family or £2 per person.
Readers can find out more by visiting Sportinghealth.org and gtsportsacademy.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here