Yee ha! It’s this year’s Dandara 5k

13 January 2017

It’s time to dust off your trainers and Stetsons as this year’s Dandara 5k and Fun Day was announced today for historic Hazlehead Park – with a ‘Wild West’ theme.

The annual event, which has increased in numbers since its inauguration three years ago, raises funds for Friends of Hazlehead volunteer-run charity which fundraises to help maintain the popular park.

The event, which is a competative 5k adult race and three children’s races and is sponsored by housebuilder Dandara, takes place on Saturday 9 September around the scenic park, which at 180 hectares is one of the oldest and most historical properties in Aberdeen with ties to Robert the Bruce and Mary, Queen of Scots.

Aberdeen City Council Leader Councillor Jenny Laing said: “It’s fantastic to launch this year’s event which is held in one of our city’s most beautiful green areas.

“The event compliments two new sporting events to the city’s calendar – our Great Aberdeen Run and the Pearl Izumi Cycling Tour Series – and will encourage people of all ages to get more active.

“There are lots of things for people and families to do in the park all year round such as playparks, café, maze, and Pets’ Corner, so we look forward to the Dandara 5k as one of the fun organised events.”

The event takes place from 9am to 1pm, and takes a scenic route around the park. The children’s races have been supported by Active Schools Sport Aberdeen.

Friends of Hazlehead chairman Donald Shaw said: “We are proud of the work we do to support and nurture the park and have helped with fundraising for many aspects including the replanting of the Queen Mother Rose Garden, upgrading the core paths, creating sign-posted running routes, and renovating and improving the popular Pets' Corner.

“The Dandara 5k is one of the highlights on our calendar and the money raised from it will go towards the good work carried out to make the park the fantastic space it is to visit, whether someone who lives nearby, is from elsewhere locally, or is a tourist to the area.”

Registration and more information for the event is available from www.friendsofhazlehead.co.uk. All participants will receive a performance t-shirt before the race and a medal upon completing the course.

Dandara’s Gavin Wyley said: “We are delighted to support the Dandara 5k as it’s a fun day in a fantastic location.

“We would encourage as many people as possible to take part to have fun and support a great charity which makes a difference in its local community.”