Why January Is the perfect time to sign up for a charity run

I joined the charity back in February as an Events Officer for Running Events, and in my very first week I was out on the course at the St David’s Day Run with Nic. 

It was the first event I worked on, and standing at the finish line, watching runners cross with smiles, relief, and sometimes happy tears, I knew I was in the right place.

Since then, I’ve been lucky enough to be involved in some incredible events - Swansea Half Marathon, the set-up of Newport Marathon Festival, Cardiff Half Marathon, and Barry Island 10K. 

Every event is different, but one thing never changes: the atmosphere created by people choosing to run for something bigger than themselves.

My running journey

Outside of work, I’m a member of a local running club here in South Wales, and I’ve been running for over 10 years. I first got into running in adulthood because of my dad, and it’s been part of my life ever since.

When I ran my first half marathon back in 2018, I finished in three hours. It wasn’t fast, but it was a huge personal achievement. 

With consistency, patience, and a lot of hard work, I’ve since brought that time down to just under two hours (1:59:57 to be exact!). 

It took six years, but it was absolutely worth it, not just for the progress, but for the people I met along the way.
Running has helped me build friendships, become part of a community, and spend more time outdoors. 

It’s been a huge support for my mental health, providing space to clear my head, challenge myself, and feel connected to others.

I’ve taken part in cross country races, road races, and speed challenges, but my favourite by far is trail running. I love the sense of exploration and problem-solving that comes with it, working out where to place your feet, how to keep moving forward without ending up flat in the mud. That challenge is part of what keeps running exciting.

The benefits of running

Running offers so much more than just a medal at the finish line. It’s one of the simplest ways to look after both your physical and mental health. 

Regular running can help improve fitness, build confidence, and create routine, something that can be especially valuable at the start of a new year.

For many people, running becomes a form of stress relief and a chance to switch off from everyday pressures. Whether it’s a short run before work or a longer run at the weekend, that time outdoors can make a real difference to how you feel. 

Running also creates opportunities to connect with others, whether through local clubs, events, or simply sharing the journey with like-minded people.

Giving back through running

Over time, running has also given me the opportunity to give back. I am a race director for races within my local running club, helping to organise and deliver events that bring runners together. 

Seeing events from both sides - as a runner and as someone involved in delivery - has given me a real appreciation for how powerful well-run, welcoming events can be. Looking ahead, I’ve set myself a new challenge for 2026: to become a Leader in Running Fitness. 

It feels like a natural next step in a journey that started with simply putting one foot in front of the other, and it’s something I am really excited about. For me, it’s another reminder that running isn’t just about race times - it’s about growth, confidence, and supporting others along the way.

Why running for charity makes a difference

I have completed the Cardiff Half Marathon three times, and each time I ran for a different charity. Having a cause to run for adds something extra. It gives those long training runs more meaning and helps you push through the tough moments on race day, especially when motivation starts to fade.

That feeling is something I see reflected in our charity runners at every event. From first timers taking on their very first 5K, to experienced runners chasing a new goal, everyone brings their own reason for being on the start line, and every one of those reasons matters.

Make this the year you sign up

If you’re looking for motivation this January, signing up for a charity run could be exactly what you need. You will get the buzz of race day, the support of a brilliant community, and the knowledge that your running is helping to change lives.

And if running isn’t for you, Cancer Research Wales has plenty of other ways to get involved. From our brand-new swimming challenge, Dip or Distance, to our hiking events across the three peaks of Abergavenny, there is something for everyone.

Whether it’s your very first event or your fifteenth, we would love to see you on the start line this year.