More than 800 runners, and nearly 200 business supporters from across Aberdeen came together for a day of Hallowe’en fundraising – helping to amass in excess of £35,000 for the ongoing regeneration of the city’s Hazlehead Park.
Some 300 children and 500 adults took part in the Dandara 5k and family fun day at the park on Saturday (October 31), with participants young and old donning Hallowe’en costumes for the occasion.
Organised by the Friends of Hazlehead and Sport Aberdeen the event, now a firm fixture on the Aberdeen race calendar, included the Dandara 5k, as well as 1k and 2k children’s races and a 600m fun run.
Later that evening, the annual Friends of Hazlehead fundraising ball – complete with Hallowe’en theme – took place at the Chester Hotel in the city’s West End, with nearly 200 people from the business community turning out to give their support.
Donald Shaw, chairman of the Friends of Hazlehead, said: “We are thrilled that so many runners of all ages and abilities made their way to Hazlehead Park on Saturday to take part in the event.
“The fundraising ball was a tremendous success, with donations including gift aid raising around £27,500. We owe huge thanks to our sponsors across the day - Leven Car Company, Aberdein Considine, Dandara, Knight Frank, Infinity Group, Gary Walker & Co Wealth Management, Bon Accord Kitchens, McLeod & Aitken, MiSwaco, Portlethen Financial Services and PD&MS, whose support is invaluable.
“Hazlehead Park is a jewel in Aberdeen’s crown and it’s fantastic that so many people were able to come along and enjoy this wonderful facility, and in turn contribute to our mission of ensuring that it can be enjoyed for many years to come.”
The Dandara 5k was won by Ronald Gauld in 17mins 29s, with Tammy Wilson first female in 18mins 58s. Dandara’s own Phil Edgley was third, while former Aberdeen FC captain and Aberdeen FC Community Trust member Russell Anderson also completed the course.
In the junior races, the 2k was won by Cameron Walker in 7mins 27s and Kirsty Purcell in 8mins 12s; and in the 1k, Liam Gilchrist was first boy across the line in 4mins, with Marine Lovie first girl home in 4mins 34s. Lucas Pilicos was first home in the 600m fun run.
Money raised will contribute to ongoing development projects at the park, some of which are already underway thanks to funding from last year’s event, including the replanting of the Queen Mother Rose Garden, upgrading core paths, creating sign-posted running routes and renovating and improving the popular Pets’ Corner.