ING New York City Marathon ®

The Red Arrows ran the New York City Marathon 2000 for GOSH and filed this report:

There is one charity in particular that has always held a special place in the hearts of the Red Arrows - Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity. For a number of years, the team has been visiting the Hospital to meet with some of the children. This year, they decided to commit more, much more. Throughout the summer season, wherever they landed following the day's displays, members of the Team could be seen running. Whether exhausted or not, and between their many other commitments, for mile upon mile they ran, developing their fitness and building up their stamina. In rain, wind, hail and shine through the UK, in Cyprus, in the Slovak Republic, in Austria, in Sweden, in Italy, in Belgium and in many more places they ran and they ran preparing for the big day - the New York Marathon. When they were not running, they were seeking sponsorship from friends and associates, families and corporations, and t hey were not let down.

Twelve officers of the Red Arrows, led by the Team Leader, Squadron Leader Andy Offer, and Mark Crossland, a long time friend of the Team, flew to New York for the event. All of Flight Lieutenant Justin Hughes' hard work and organisation slipped into place. There was a brief worrying moment when Gleavy tripped and was injured, but the wounded soldier continues and finished the race. All 11 of the pilots and Al McNeill, the Junior Engineering Officer, finished the race in very respectable times. Each has his story of the highs and lows of this considerable undertaking, of their own personal struggle or motivation, but they all considered the experience both worthwhile and worthy.

The team was well supported, and our many friends and corporate sponsors helped to raise over £45,000 for GOSH. The team went along to see some of the children and give them some Red Arrows 'goodies' and present the cheque. As always, they came away humbled people pleased to have been able to 'Wipe away the Tear'.