Sponsored

Whether you like running, wine, beautiful scenery or all three, we’ve found the perfect event for you. The Gusbourne Run, which is proudly sponsored by trusted insurance provider NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden and Whitfield, takes place on Sunday 24^th of July.

Organised by Sporting Events UK, the run offers two distances of either 5k or 10k, both held in the unique and idyllic setting of the Gusbourne’s 60-hectare Appledore Estate, where competitors will run amongst the vines. The hills and off-road terrain are more than justified with wine tastings along the way, and the mini event village with space to relax and view the vineyards after the event, is something to keep running for. All runners will get to taste Gusbourne’s award-winning sparkling wine, so you need to be over 18 to take part.

Gusbourne founder Charlie Holland said:

“It’s a thrill to have Sporting Events UK returning to host the Gusbourne Run. In previous years, the event has always been well received by the runners and their families, and it’s great to see new and familiar faces running the circuit. This year, we also welcome NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield who we have an excellent partnership with and their support is very much appreciated. We will have plenty of full glasses of Gusbourne’s finest wine for our runners to sample during the course!”

The sponsorship is not only an opportunity for NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield to support Gusbourne Estate with one of their key 2022 events but also two other great local companies. The Gusbourne Run would not be possible without the hosts Sporting Events UK who continue to coordinate the event year after year. Voted the “Best Running Events Management Company 2021” in the Southern Enterprise Awards, Sporting Events UK is a leading events management organisation specialising in the running sector. They offer a full catalogue of events across the South East, offering experiences that everyone can take part in.

Barry Hopkins of Sporting Events UK said:

“The Gusbourne Run really is one of the highlights of our Sporting Events UK calendar. Year after year, we have lots of runners sign up for the event and this year is no exception. Running through the beautiful vineyards is an absolute joy for both returning and new runners, and we are delightful to have the support of NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield this year for the event. It is a special event, with such a great atmosphere, with lots of runners and supporters staying to relax after the running is complete”.

NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield Senior Partner Doug Jackson said of the sponsorship:

“There was no hesitation to sponsor this event; Gusbourne is a beautiful venue, the perfect setting for a summer run. We have a great working relationship with Gusbourne and we’re really pleased to have built a new partnership with Sporting Events UK. We’re really pleased to be supporting a variety of great local organisations within one event as we continue to be an advocate for supporting our community.”

Every participant that completes the run will receive a special medal to mark the occasion, and with wine tasting stops throughout the run, this will be an event that appeals to many. To book your place and learn more about the event, click here:

https://www.sportingeventsuk.com/enter-an-event/the-gusbourne-10k-5k

Fundraising for local children’s charity

As well as sponsoring the event, NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield is also participating in the run to fundraise for one of their affiliated charities, Dandelion Time. Located near West Farleigh, Dandelion Time gives children and families time and space to love and trust again, as well as time to heal from emotional trauma and abuse, rebuild confidence and strengthen relationships. The charity recognises the importance of being in a peaceful natural environment, absorbing children in calming hands-on activities. 

The team from NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield will be out in force to help raise funds for the charity with thirteen runners from across their three offices participating.  Joining partners Doug Jackson, George Ashby & Darren Smith are Wesley Beddows, Maisie Cox, Kim Duckworth, Stuart Guest, Gemma Jeffrey, Simon Makota, Vicki Phipps, James Tragett, Sarah Turner & Jess Wooff.

NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield Senior Partner and Gusbourne Runner Doug Jackson said:

“Our team will be fundraising for Dandelion Time, an incredible charity that offers help to children with challenging emotional issues. We’re really pleased to be supporting a variety of great local organisations within one event as we continue to be an advocate for supporting our community.”

Dandelion Time’s Fundraising Coordinator Jo Challis added:

“Dandelion Time are grateful for the support from NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield. As a small charity, having this support will make such a huge difference in transforming the lives of abused and neglected children in Kent. Since the pandemic incidents of domestic violence have increased by 50% and this donation will directly transform the lives of vulnerable children.”

A JustGiving page was recently launched to help the thirteen runners fundraise in the leadup to the event. Full details can be found here:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/nfu-mutual-atw

Runners will also be able to show their support for Dandelion Time on the day of the run by visiting NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden and Whitfield’s event stand in the mini event village.