Local runners reunite for triumphant return of the Perch 2000
There was a lively atmosphere on Friday evening as the local running community gathered for the return of the Perch 2000 run.
Hosted by the Oddballs Running Club, the event returned after a hiatus, bringing together runners, supporters and volunteers for an evening of local sport on Epsom Downs.
The revival of the Perch 2000 was led by the club’s committee, with Peter Black and Mark playing key roles. Working with the Epsom & Walton Downs Conservators, the team secured the venue and dealt with the practical arrangements needed to bring the historic event back.
The organisers’ plans were then tested by soaring summer temperatures, which led to a safety-based postponement. The run was rescheduled by a week at short notice, with cooler conditions on Friday evening providing a safer setting for participants to take on the course.
Club member, local photographer and councillor Steven McCormick worked with Peter, Mark and the committee in support of the event’s return.
“It’s just fantastic to see everyone out here again,” Mr McCormick said. “The Oddballs committee put in a monumental amount of work to make this happen and to pull off the last-minute date change. Community events like this are the heartbeat of our local area.”
Mr McCormick was also on the sidelines photographing the runners. A gallery of race-day photographs is available to view and download on his website:
https://www.stevenmccormickphotography.com/f216411970
Mr McCormick is also a familiar face behind the camera at other local sporting events, including the annual Tadworth 10.
Brass in the Garden this Sunday
The Epsom & Ewell Silver Band will give its Summer Concert at the Old Moat Garden Centre this Sunday, starting at 5pm.
Tickets are available through the band’s website:
The Perch 2000 image gallery can be viewed at: