After the incredible success of its first edition, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance 5km fun run, Dash in the Dark, is returning to Seaclose Park, Newport, on Saturday 7 October.
Participants of all ages are encouraged to light up the night with their brightest clothes, funkiest fancy dress, neon face-paints and fluorescent glow-sticks.
Last October more than 300 people made the inaugural Isle of Wight Dash in the Dark a huge success, raising £16,270 – enough to fund almost five emergency missions.
One of those participants, Kevan Taylor from Winford, has first-hand experience of relying on the specialist skills of the air ambulance team, having been treated and flown to hospital on three separate occasions.
HEMS Paramedic Julian Hannah and Kevan Taylor
Kevan, 38, has a rare brain condition called hydrocephalus: a condition that causes a build-up of fluid around the brain, which can cause brain damage. When a tube on Kevan’s brain blocks, he must undergo emergency treatment within a matter of hours or risk falling seriously ill.
Kevan said:
“Without the air ambulance, I would not be here to raise my children. I would have died. How can you thank the people that saved your life and allowed you to continue being a father and see your children grow up. Words are not enough.”
Kevan will be wearing runner number 1 and setting off from the front of the pack.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Director of Income and Engagement, Keith Wilson, said:
“We have been night flying since January 2016. Last year, 30% (547) of our emergency calls happened under the cover of darkness. It is only thanks to our dedicated wave of supporters from events such as Dash in the Dark that we can be there for those who need our help. A huge thank you to everyone who continues to champion this event and our charity, helping us save lives every day.”
Sign up today to receive a free Dash in the Dark T-shirt. All participants will also receive a glow in the dark medal at the finish line. Check in on the night will open at 5.30pm. The warm up will start at 6.30pm, with the 5km dash beginning at 6.45pm, as darkness falls.
The route is softly lit and paved throughout, though head torches are recommended.
Adult tickets cost £20 and children £16 (5-15 years). Every penny raised goes towards keeping the air ambulance charity on the frontline and saving lives. Tickets can be purchased via: https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/DashintheDarkIsleofWight
