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HMS Collingwood holds its first ever Race for Life
28 June 2016
Military and civilian personnel at HMS Collingwood took a break from their daily routines to take part in the establishment’s first ever Race for Life event.
On a very warm afternoon personnel across the site took over the parade ground as they joined together in a warm up prior to starting the challenge.
Needing to complete 5 laps to cover the 5km distance, employees from all departments came out to run or walk, helping to raise over £700 for this worthy cause.
Leading Physical Trainer Emma Ochiltree, organised the event, she said, “The original idea for the HMS Collingwood Race for Life came from Chief Petty Officer Physical Trainer Jimmy Forwell, with me organising and running the event.
The idea was to bring everyone out of their office and participate in a whole ship evolution, whilst rising awareness about Cancer Research
Emma continued, "The idea was to bring everyone out of their office and participate in a whole ship evolution, whilst rising awareness about Cancer Research. The event was designed for all physical abilities allowing for maximum participation by military, civilian personnel, male and females.
"We had about 317 people take part, dressed in items of pink. Other members of Ships Company took the time to spectate and encourage the competitors. The atmosphere was buzzing with the Collingwood Royal Marines Band playing for the duration of the race whist also dressed in pink.”
Lisa Ballantyne, Interserve Stores Administrator, HMS Collingwood, took part in the event with some stores colleagues, she said, “We decided to enter the Race for Life as a stores team, we thoroughly enjoyed it, the atmosphere was great, with even the Royal Marines Band dressing up.
"It’s nice to get away from the office occasionally and build team spirit outside of the working environment. Plus we raised a good amount of money for charity.”