Santa was in training at Dundee International Sports Centre (DISC) for the launch of Leisure & Culture Dundee's Santa Dash 2022. The event will take place on Sunday, 4 December 2022, with all profits going to DUNDEE BAIRNS - Fun & Food Programme. The dash, which has been running since 2017, promises to be a fantastic, fun day for all the family.
The closed road event will start and finish in front of Dundee's City Square, following a route through the City Centre. The dash is a 2km lap and perfect for everyone to get involved. It can either be done once or twice if participants wish to complete a 4km route. Santas will head along High Street to the Murraygate, cut along Panmure Street past the iconic landmark of The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum, and pass DC Thomson HQ at Meadowside. They will then go up and around West Bell Street before circling down and along Ward Road before heading towards Reform Street and the finishing line in front of City Square.
This year's charity, DUNDEE BAIRNS, is a children’s charity, supporting community projects that are in areas of high multiple deprivation to target the most vulnerable children. They help provide meals during school holidays to low-income families, as well as other basics for their children, such as clothing and stimulating opportunity.
Garry Smith, Events & ICT Manager at Leisure & Culture Dundee, said
"Christmas is a lovely time of year but it is also a difficult time for many, and we hope the sight of so many Santas in the city centre will help put everyone in the festive spirit. Whether running or walking, we encourage everyone to get involved. Dundee Bairns is an important charity in the city, and we want to raise as much as possible to support those most in need."
Genna Millar, Project Coordinator at DUNDEE BAIRNS, said
"We are absolutely over the moon to have been chosen as this year's charity partner for such a fantastic family event which has the added bonus of helping us to raise support for the work we do in tackling poverty and inequality for children in Dundee. A huge thank you from us all for helping us to help Dundee's Bairns."
Once signed up, Santas can collect their suits from Central Library or Dundee Ice Arena. (Please note that children aged 3-4 years will receive a Santa Hat rather than a suit and that we are unable to provide anything for those under 3. However, organisers encourage dressing up for all ages).
Registration begins at 9.30am on the day, with the event starting at 10.30am, and Santas will receive medals upon completing the route. Leisure & Culture Dundee will also be handing out spot prizes on the day!
To register and for more details on the Santa Dash, go to www.leisureandculturedundee.com/santadash