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FIFTY HALF MARATHONS TO RAISE FUNDS FOR FIRE-RAVAGED CRICKET CLUB

Ian Collier (with beard) in strict training for his big marathon challenge
Ian celebrates his big 50th birthday by doing 50 half marathons

Local cricketer Ian Collier wants to mark his significant 50th birthday by hitting a half century of half marathons to raise funds for Hampton Wick Royal Cricket Club.

The historic cricket club’s pavilion and clubhouse in Bushy Park was burned to the ground in a mystery blaze – thought to be arson  – in September 2023.

Ian says: “As I seem incapable of hitting one on the pitch, I wanted to use my upcoming landmark birthday as a way of raising funds for Hampton Wick Royal Cricket Club.

The mystery blaze engulfed the clubhouse in September 2023
Temporary facilities to provide toilets and changing rooms have been put in place

“After much thought the brains trust came up with a campaign name HITTING 50! It was then decided a challenge was needed. That challenge is to run 50 half marathons in 2025.

“The 2023 fire that destroyed The Wick’s pavilion has been well covered by local and national news. And the amazing fundraising effort and generosity of so many people meant the club has been able to continue. While 2024 did not see any silverware come the club’s way, we survived!

”It’s now time to build for the future. The fire was devastating – but has given us the chance to build a more sustainable club with a greater focus on the community.

“I have run a few marathons over the years as part of fundraising – but this is a whole different challenge,” Ian says. “There’s no way you can take a few weeks off for a rest because the runs will just pile up. I’m not sure what I was thinking to be honest.”

“The money raised through HITTING 50 will go towards:

  • Continuing to inspire youngsters from all backgrounds to enjoy sport
  • Building lasting links to the local community
  • Championing cricket as a force for good
  • Promoting mental health

“This challenge is no small feat, covering more than 650 miles in total. Other events are in the pipeline to help raise funds, but also awareness of a few things close to my heart; mental health; youth development, and of course… cricket!

HWRCC Chairman, Sam Kemp says: “Ian has always been a big part of the Wick as a player, a captain and fundraiser-in-chief; but his Hitting 50 challenge takes it to another level!

“As a club we are hugely indebted to Ian and appreciative of his energy and love for the Wick. I encourage everyone who knows Ian and all cricket lovers to show their support for this map cap challenge.

You can find more details on the Hitting 50 campaign here:

https://www.hitting50.co.uk/

You can find more details on Hampton Wick Royal Cricket Club here:
https://hwrcc.co.uk/

You can find more details on Opening Up Cricket here: https://openingupcricket.com/

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