EMMS Chariots of Fire 2023

EMMS Chariots of Fire Beach Run at Portobello Beach, Edinburgh 

Saturday 2nd December, 10:30am until 16:30pm

Registration Fee: £5

About the Event

Join us on Saturday 2nd December for the Chariots of Fire Beach Run, a fun fundraising event at Portobello Beach. You will have the chance to recreate the iconic scene from the Oscar-winning film Chariots of Fire, where gold winning Olympian, Eric Liddell, joined by a group of athletes, run along the waters edge in slow motion to the tune of Vangelis’ famous score to raise funds for local families affected by dementia and healthcare overseas.

One hundred years ago, two brothers resided at the EMMS hostel at 56 George Square, Edinburgh, where they were financially supported by EMMS International. One was an EMMS doctor, practising in Edinburgh. The other was a famous Scottish gold medal winner in 1924 Paris Olympics, as well as a rugby player and sprinter. Their names: Rob and Eric Liddell. A century later, we are thrilled that the bond between EMMS International and Eric Liddell's work has been re-established, as we launch a brand new four-year partnership with The Eric Liddell Community in Edinburgh to help those who are struggling financially and who are experiencing dementia. 

Liddell’s life and legacy inspire us to support those who are facing challenges and hardships because of dementia here at home, and health poverty overseas. That’s why we need your help to raise urgently needed funds and awareness for this important cause. By taking part in the Chariots of Fire Beach Run, you will be making a difference to the lives of people living with dementia and their families, whilst enjoying a great day out taking in the beautiful scenery of Portobello Beach.

The Chariots of Fire Beach Fundraising Challenge is to run 4 miles along the beach, starting and finishing at the Portobello Promenade. You can run at your own pace, or join a team and run together. The event is open to anyone aged 16 or over. Oh, and of course, first one over the finish line wins a prize!!

Once signed up, one of the easiest and most effective ways to raise funds for the Chariots of Fire Beach Run is to set up a JustGiving page. This allows you to create your own online fundraising page, where you can tell your story, share your photos and videos, and collect donations from your friends, family and supporters. As a bonus, if you raise over £400 on your JustGiving page, you will receive a free commemorative Chariots of Fire running vest! This is a limited edition running vest that features the logo of the event and EMMS International logo. It is a great way to show your support and celebrate your achievement. 

So what are you waiting for? Sign up today and join us for this unique and memorable event. You will not only have a great time, but also help us create a world where everyone affected by dementia and poverty can live with dignity and hope. 

Choose your own beach!

If you can’t take part in the Chariots of Fire Beach Run at Portobello Beach, you can still join the fun and support a good cause by taking part at your own beach on the same day!! We are asking the nation to pick their favourite beach and complete a 4mile run to help raise funds to help relieve health poverty. 

Booking your tickets

You can book online or by calling 0131 313 3828. When booking by phone, you have the option to pay by credit or debit card or to arrange a cash or cheque payment. (Booking requires you to be physically fit with no health conditions where your doctor would advise against participation - if in doubt, ask your GP.)

Sponsorship

Sponsorship opportunities are available. If you are interested in sponsoring this Fundraising Challenge Event, please contact our Fundraising Manager Megan at megan.porter@emms.org. 

(as with all outdoor events - this event is subject to local authority license)