3,000 Santas Dash In Glasgow

14 DEC2009

There was a festive buzz on the streets of Glasgow as 3,000 runners clad in Santa suits took part in the annual Santa Dash. The Santas made a colourful sight as they left George Square at the start of the 5k event.

The course saw runners climb St Vincent St before heading downhill over the Charing Cross section of the M8 before a left turn at Finnieston and back to the city centre along Clyde St. The final stages had runners ducking under the Hielan'mans Umbrella before heading along the Buchanan St shopping precinct and back into George Square.

Runners, who included football legend Kenny Dalglish and BBC newscaster Jackie Bird, raised over £30,000 for the Marina Dalglish Appeal and the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice. For many it was a family occasion and one runner Sandy Bennet (54) told www.scottishrunningguide.com:

"It was a memorable event and quite bizarre running up St Vincent St with a sea of Santas in front of you. Lots of runners pushing buggies and others with brightly attired dogs added to the colour of the day. I ran with my son Euan and daughter Ruth and we all enjoyed what was a fun race."

Organisers were delighted by the numbers taking part and there is speculation that in 2010 the city may go for the world record and have the most Santas dashing through the city.