Running the Wokingham Half for Whitley CDA

In December, the PSC formed a seven strong group of passionate volunteers to participate in the Wokingham Half Marathon for Whitley CDA; an organisation central to the neighbourhood, and one we were keen to help hit the ground running in 2023!

“On Sunday 26th February, the morning dawned cold and crisp with blue skies – perfect conditions for the Wokingham Half Marathon.” reported Maths Teacher, Duncan Laurie-Pile​. “We gathered at the start line with 3000 other runners and before we knew it, we were off! The first couple of miles wound round the streets of the old town with the sound of hundreds of trainers hitting the tarmac and echoing off the building walls. There were crowds of spectators cheering us on around the entire length of the course.”

One of those spectators was Head of Year 10, 11 & Pre-Sixth, Sally Saunders: “I live close to part of the route so wanted to go and support them. The atmosphere was fantastic with supporters lining the route to the finish line in Cantley Park. Team LP were incredible and all seven of them did us really proud. It was great to be able to see them and give them some encouragement on mile two and 12. The weather was perfect as it was not too hot but bright and sunny.”

Duncan continued, “There were some challenging times as the legs started to tire and the urge to walk grew and grew! Once the finish felt within reach, everything got a bit easier and suddenly we were crossing the line! One by one the team came in, all feeling a great sense of achievement. There was even some chat about what the next challenge might be! “Thank you for your sponsorship – we surpassed our target of £500, raising £790!”

Leighton Park continues to have a close relationship with Whitley CDA, since first working together with the charity throughout the pandemic when the School was able to help in supporting individuals and families. In 2023, the soaring cost of living is introducing new challenges for the local community.