2nd Mar 2012 - 00:00
Abstract
Nearly 1,000 trade and club runners took to the streets around London’s ExCeL on Sunday, February 26, to mark the opening of Hotelympia 2012 and raise funds for Springboard, UK’s leading charity providing opportunities for sustainable employment and careers in the hospitality sector.
Perfect weather – cold and bright – ensured a high turnout and around £37,000 was raised for the charity. The winning male and female teams were the Craft Guild of Chefs and Reynolds Runner Beans respectively, with the fastest mixed team being Fresh Montgomery who also won the Leapfrog Media Cup. Steve Cram, former Olympic athlete and BBC's athletics commentator, who officially started the race, was also on hand to present the trophies and prizes at the end along with Olympic hopeful and 400m runner Conrad Williams – the official Hotelympia 10K 'face of the race'. After completing the race, all the runners were treated to a well deserved post race brunch organised by the Craft Guild of Chefs, prepared and served on the day by leading Craft Guild members. Springboard chief executive Anne Pierce said: "This was a spectacular event and stunning show opener for Hotelympia. This race brings the industry together in fitness and fun, while raising a significant sum for Springboard. Congratulations to everyone who took part and see you in 2014."