We were back again for a fantastic day at the Oysho Royal Parks Half Marathon on Sunday, 11 October 2026 with a team of 200-plus runners, proudly wearing the Alcohol Change UK running tops in support of our cause.
The team brought together a wonderful mix of new and returning runners, alongside staff members, Community Champions, and even a couple of superheros!
A huge thank you to our incredible runners, fundraisers, and cheer team. Together, the team has raised an amazing £53,500 so far to help reduce alcohol harm across the UK.
Meet two of our amazing runners and find out what inspired them to take on the challenge of running 13.1 miles around four stunning Royal Parks.
Kathryn's story:
“In April of this year, at just 56 years of age, my dad passed away with alcohol being a major contributing factor to his passing. I am running the Royal Parks Half Marathon on the 11th October to honour his memory, raise vital awareness, and support Alcohol Change UK.
People often think grief begins when someone dies. But the truth is, my painful grief started long before April. It started during the years spent watching my dad struggle with alcohol.
I have witnessed first-hand exactly what alcohol harm does. I’ve seen what it does to the person trapped by it, what it does to the family and loved ones standing by, and I know the deep toll it has taken on me. It is a heartbreaking, exhausting journey for everyone involved.
I don't want my dad's story, or our family's pain, to be in vain. I am running to spread awareness and to ensure that others struggling with alcohol - and the families supporting them - don't have to walk this dark path alone.
Alcohol Change UK is a fantastic charity driven by a vital mission. They work tirelessly to create a world free from the harm caused by alcohol. They do this by:
Every single mile I run is for my dad, for the battle he fought, and for the hope that we can help someone else win theirs.”
By running the Royal Parks Half Marathon for Alcohol Change UK, Kathryn has raised over £1,500 through her Givestar fundraising page.
Rahul's story:
“In 2021, I lost my father following health complications caused by years of excessive alcohol consumption. Experiencing first-hand how alcohol addiction can affect not only the individual, but also their family and the people around them, has left a lasting impression on me.
Sadly, this is something I've also seen within parts of the Punjabi community, where excessive drinking among men can sometimes be normalised or overlooked. Too many families live with the consequences in silence, and too few people feel able to ask for help or speak openly about the challenges they face.
I'm not running this half marathon to dwell on the past. Instead, I'm running because I hope that sharing my experience can help raise awareness, encourage more open conversations about alcohol, and support a charity that is working to reduce the harm it causes. If my story helps even one person recognise the signs, seek support, or make a positive change before it's too late, then this challenge will have made a difference.
Alcohol Change UK works to prevent alcohol harm, support those affected by alcohol, and campaign for healthier relationships with drinking. Every donation, no matter how big or small, will help them continue that vital work.”
Rahul has raised over £1,200 through his Givestar fundraising page.
Interested in taking on a challenge? Get involved, get fit, fundraise and help reduce alcohol harm, all at the same time!
