The ‘Run The Runway’ event was held to support a number of charities including the Vulcan To The Sky Trust, which cares for the iconic Vulcan XH558 bomber in Doncaster.
Runners of all ages took on a course of either 3.5km or 5.8km, which allowed them to complete either a full of half length of the runway before doing a loop to the finish line next to the Vulcan.
The original 1,000 entries sold out within 48 hours with a susequent waiting list of a further 2,000 people. A total of 2,600 runners took part on Saturday (Mar 21).
Simon Hinchley, executive director for airport operations at DSA, said: “The community has really got behind what is likely to be the only chance to be part of something of this scale on the runway before we reopen the airport to passengers and freight. It’s far from every day that you get the chance to set foot on a runway of any type, let alone one of this length and quality.”
Craig Shepherd, Chief Executive of Vulcan to the Sky Trust, added: “XH558 is such an important part of our local heritage, so it’s fantastic to see thousands of people here today — not only the runners, but also their friends, families and supporters — all coming together to celebrate and support the Vulcan.
"To cross the finish line beside such an iconic aircraft is a truly special experience. It creates an incredible atmosphere and a memorable day for everyone involved.”
Controversial plans to re-open Doncaster Sheffield Airport are now well underway, with the site ramping up activity as it seeks to bring freight and passenger flights back to the city.
Recently, the airport announced it was on a recruitment drive, with more than 40 people now employed on site and 200 expected to be in place within the next 12 months.
10. Run The Runway
Runners get into the spirit of things at the Run The Runway event at Doncaster Sheffield Airport Photo: Submit
