UCL 5Km Run

On the 22nd of October Project Active UCL 5K Run took place at the Lee Valley VeloPark. This run was focused on being inclusive and beginner friendly, making it a welcoming experience for new runners. We had 225 participants cross the finish line, our fastest time being 19:06!

A huge thank you to UCL's Running, Athletics and Cross Country Club for providing volunteers for the roles of pacers, course marshals and tail walkers. Please be sure to join their club if you want to continue your running journey!

We would also like to thank the UCL Photography Society, who took some fantastic pictures of the runners and the event!

It was a picture-perfect day, sunny and cool, a great weather for a run. From experienced runners to individuals who have never ran 5k before, our event drew participants of all levels and backgrounds. As we set the stage at the iconic Lee Valley VeloPark Area, excitement filled the air.

Runners eagerly gathered their race numbers and envelopes which included their run number and shoe tags. This year, we introduced shoe tags to provide participants with precise timing, adding a new dimension of competition and achievement. The runners sported shirts of three different colours, each shirt representing their journey in our event. The navy Project Active shirt were for participants embarking on their very first 5k, the purple shirt was for participants who are completing their second 5k run event with Project Active and the orange shirt, was for participants completing three consecutive years of conquering the UCL 5k Run—an impressive accomplishment!

As the event began, participants started their 3.107-mile journey. It was amazing to see friends cheering each other on, individuals pushing their limits, and even one participant running alongside their dog! We were delighted to see all participants cross the finish line! The top 100 participants achieved their goal in under 31 minutes, with the top 50 finishing in under 26 minutes, and the top 10, conquering the 5k mark in under 21 minutes! The sense of achievement surround every participant, making the run an unforgettable experience for all. Here's what some of our participants had to say about this remarkable event!

Participant Feedback

All participants who engaged in the feedback form would attend another UCL 5km Run Event

“Fun experience and good way to stay in shape”
“Well organised, and everyone was very encouraging. A very enjoyable event.”
“Great atmosphere and an environment that encourages you to push to achieve your best. The volunteers were
"Friendly and encouraging and I made a couple of new friends.”
“5km Run gives me opportunity to make friends outside of my institution”
“That was my first run, so important goal in my 37 years old life”
“The course was lovely and the event was held smoothly. Overall, attending the event was a really fun experience.”
"I really enjoyed it! It was nice to have something to train for and the location was great"
"It's a fun run. Had good fun and massive encouragement from the organizers. I was at the back of the pack, but then no one really cares. In fact, the loudest cheers for the last guy! Hip hip Hurray"
"The run session was organised well and simply, without any complex instructions or events afterwards (which I liked). The participation fee was reasonable as well!"