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THE OTMOOR CHALLENGE
The
first Saturday in June is well established on the runners' calendar
as "Otmoor Day" and we welcome runners from a wide area
covering the South and Midlands — over 350 last year. The
variation of terrain has its own unique appeal and the 'challenge'
is on. Walkers too enjoy the footpaths and bridleways of the area.
Many entrants return year after year to take in the views and
birdlife, much improved by the very active presence of the R.S.P.B.
As usual walkers may start any time between 9 a.m. and noon, choosing
either the 13 mile or the 5 mile route. The Half Marathon Run
will mass start at 2 p.m. and the Challenge cups and prizes are
awarded to the winners in each category. The first 350 runners
home will each receive an Otmoor Challenge mug. Other runners
and walkers who complete the full course will be awarded a tracksuit
badge. The
Fete offers entertainment for all the family and needs plenty
of helpers and supporters. Any villager prepared to volunteer
please contact the organisers. This is our prime opportunity of
the year to enjoy working together as a community in a common
endeavour. The Millennium Hall provides changing rooms, toilets
and showers for runners and walkers. It is also a cornerstone
of the Fete, providing space for stalls and refreshments —
and shelter should it be necessary. The
money raised benefits not only national charities but also other
good causes in our own village and in the surrounding areas. We
welcome and encourage the help of all those interested in adding
to the success of the day by their support for local causes. Runners
and walkers can raise money by sponsorship for their nominated
charity if they wish, or pay an entrance fee. The monies raised,
after deduction of expenses, go to charities and good causes. The
100th runner home is awarded the obelisk in memory of Ted Ogden
who was one of the founders of the event. The Challenge is his
legacy and is now run by an enlarged team of organisers from whom
further information and entry forms may be obtained:
Runners should print the Registration Form, complete the information requested, and send it, together with a cheque for the appropriate amount, to Jill Meyjes at the address shown on the form. The Sponsorship Form, for both runners and walkers, should be printed, completed with the sponsors' names and amounts, and brought with you to Registration at the Otmoor Challenge. Any queries concerning the Otmoor Challenge from runners or walkers should be addressed to Julie Ogden, Home Close, Church Lane, Horton-cum-Studley, Oxford OX33 1AW. |
