Nothing could dampen the spirits of runners of all ages who braved the downpours on 11th June for the Joe’s Jog charity fun run.
Joe’s Jog, which is now in its sixth year, took place before the Mattioli Woods Rothley 10k running event.
This year’s Joe’s Jog drew a record 452 registered participants, with families and children of all ages enjoying the chance to be part of the Rothley 10k evening.
The run raised a fantastic £2,400 to support the ongoing work of the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust (JHMT).
The race was officially started by Chris Edwards from Leicester rock band, Kasabian.
The first three runners to cross the line were Oliver Arnold, Harry Sutherington and Harrison Hill. The first female home was Eloise Geary, in 7th place.
Joe Humphries was 14 when he collapsed and died suddenly while out jogging near his Rothley home. He was a victim of SADS – sudden arrhythmic death syndrome – a heart condition which can strike anyone at any time, particularly otherwise fit and healthy young people.
Since Joe’s death, his family and friends have worked tirelessly to raise awareness of SADS and sudden heart deaths. They set up the JHMT to provide free CPR training in schools, sports clubs and community groups, to help fund community defibrillators and to campaign for better understanding of SADS.
The charity also runs the Inspire Awards, a small grants scheme that helps inspiring young people to fulfil their potential.
Steve Humphries, chair of the JHMT, said:
“Despite the awful weather conditions, this was an amazing effort by everyone who turned out to run and have fun in the rain.
“Joe’s Jog is a great way to commemorate our son Joe in his home village and raise vital funds for the ongoing work of his Trust to save young lives, and help young people to reach their potential.
“This event would not have been possible without the army of Team Joe volunteers who gave up their precious time to ensure the event was a great success again.”
To find out more about the Trust’s work, to get involved as a volunteer, or to learn how to apply for the Inspire Awards or CPR training for your sports club, visit www.jhmt.org.uk
