Foam, lasers and neon clothing: Glow in the Park is coming to Exeter
UV paint, neon foam, luminous face paint and electric light shows. No, it’s not a night out clubbing in Ibiza, it’s the “ultimate fun run” – and it’s coming to Exeter.
The Glow in the Park fun run invites people to dance, walk, jog or run though a 5K route with nine different ‘Glow Zones’. It takes place on Saturday 9th November at Westpoint in Exeter and will help raise money for its partner charities, the Down’s Syndrome Association and Down Syndrome International.
Hayley Wilkins (32), from Okehampton, took part in the event last year with 20-year-old Joseph, a man she supports with Down’s syndrome.
“This was the first time I had run anything like this and what kept me going was the atmosphere of running at night and the visual effects. It was also really special because I got to run alongside Joseph, who is a determined and competitive young man with Down’s syndrome who I have supported for 11 years. There was a feel-good atmosphere from the moment we arrived, with great music playing to get everyone warmed up! Running through endless foam helped make the experience more fun rather than gruelling.”
The event is open to all ages and abilities and promises: "Electrifying light shows and energising beats to carry you around the dark course as you get your glow on in the Foam Zone, powder up in the UV Paint Blast Zone and get grooving in the Time Tunnel.”
Jemma who took part last year said: “Tom (aged 7) thought it was the best thing ever. Straight out of the gates we lost him in bubbles that went over his head – he came out laughing. It was a good fun family night where everyone celebrated everyone else.”
Sponsorship money from the event goes towards its charity partners, with more than £12,000 raised for the Down’s Syndrome Association and Down Syndrome International last year. Both charities do vital work to ensure people with Down’s syndrome in the UK and across the world, are supported to live full and rewarding lives.
Hayley also has a brother, 12-year-old Kieran, who has Down’s syndrome. She’s determined that the money she raises this year will go towards helping him and others with the genetic condition.
“I think there is still a lot of stigma and myths that exist around Down’s syndrome. There has been lots of research and awareness in recent years and it is positive to see people with Down’s syndrome reflected within the media, be it on adverts or soaps. However, there is still a long way to go to keep raising the profile and striving to overcome the barriers that individuals with Down’s syndrome experience within society.”
The event starts with a warm-up and DJ at 5:30pm, before it all kicks off at 6pm. Book your place now and take advantage of the EARLY BIRD SUPER SAVER offer until 1st October.
For more information about the event, please contact Jamie Old on 07527 044251, Email jamie@votwo.co.uk or Visit www.glowinthepark.co.uk/products/glow-in-the-park-exeter
