Maggie’s Chase charity run date set

A date for a brand-new community race to raise money for the Maggie’s Cancer Support Charity, has been set for Sunday 20 September 2026.

The 5k,10k and children’s fun run event, which emerged from a pilot run organised last November in Larbert, has been organised by two Forth Valley College colleagues - Robert Myler, EPOS Co-ordinator, and Alistair McKean, Training & Business Development Manager - after the first run proved to be such a success.

They are now appealing for as many runners of all ages and abilities to register to take part on Sunday 20 September in the first official 'Maggie’s 5K & 10K Chase', taking in a route which is set in the beautiful woodland surrounding Maggie’s Forth Valley in Larbert, starting at 9am. The children’s fun run – for kids aged between 4-12 years of age starting at 12noon on the day – will be managed by the organisers of the Junior Helix Park Run and will be run around the Maggie’s Centre pond.

The community event supports Maggie’s Forth Valley, with all proceeds donated to help people living with cancer and anyone signing up and raising a minimum of £100 for the worthy cause will receive a free Maggie’s Run Vest – www.entrycentral.com/MaggiesChase5k10k

Runner slots are limited (250 for the 10k and 100 for the 5k) so anyone interested in registering should do so as quickly as possible to avoid disappointment.

For keen runner Alistair, the cause is deeply personal. Maggie’s supported his family during his dad's cancer diagnosis and treatment, and his mum continued to volunteer at the centre to this day.

Alistair, said: “Maggie’s provided a lifeline to our family at the toughest time. They do incredible work, receive no government funding, and rely entirely on donations. This race was a chance for us as a community to say thank you.”

Robert, who has represented Great Britain at Master Level in Ultra Mararthon competition and also organises several local events through his Everyrunner company, such as the Kelpies Half Marathon and the Trailspire Ultra, added: “This was our chance to come together as a community, get active, and raise vital funds for a charity that touches so many lives. We hope that in future years, whether you’re running, cheering, or donating – you’ll be part of something special.”

Maggie’s volunteers will be on hand to support the day, with buckets available for loose change donations at the event. Spectators are also encouraged to come along and support all the participants and give them a big cheer in recognition of their vital work.

Carrigan Kerr, Maggie’s Centre Fundraising Manager, said: “We are thrilled that, following a successful pilot year in 2025, our incredible supporters Robert and Alistair are bringing back Maggie’s 5k and 10k Chase as an annual running event supporting Maggie’s Forth Valley. We’re delighted to host this 5km and 10km route on Sunday 20th September, starting and finishing at Maggie’s Forth Valley, supported by Forth Valley Royal Hospital and the Forestry Commission.

“Whether you’re a seasoned runner or simply looking for a new challenge, this event brings together families, friends and the wider community in support of Maggie’s. We are kindly asking participants to aim to raise £100 in sponsorship and participants will receive a free Maggie’s running vest. Every £30 raised could fund an hour of one-to-one support with one of our Cancer Support Specialists.

“With the event taking place at Maggie’s Forth Valley, it is a wonderful opportunity to visit the centre and see first-hand the impact your fundraising can have. With Maggie’s celebrating 30 years of providing free cancer support to people and their families, there has never been a better time to get involved and show your support.”

The organisers also promote sustainability, with water and fruit available at feed stations and recyclable paper cups provided. Participants are also asked to bring refillable cups where possible to help reduce landfill waste.

You can learn more about their services here: Maggie’s Forth Valley