Hundreds of Santas took to the streets of Aviemore on Saturday to run 5k in aid of charity.
More than 450 people dressed up as either Santa Clause or a trusty elf to complete the annual run through Aviemore to raise cash for Disability Sports UK (DSUK), a charity which works to provide opportunities for disabled or poorly individuals to ski or snowboard alongside other people.
During the one day event, several competitors chose to complete the mile run while others tackled the 5k course through Aviemore and around Macdonald’s Aviemore Resort.
Kirsty Bruce of Disability Snowsport said: “DSUK is committed to breaking down both the social and financial barriers for disabled people participating in sport and one of the ways we do this is by subsidising every lesson by £28 and offering free taster lessons.
“We are only able to do this thanks to events like the Santa Run, and from other generous donations. Thanks those who braved the Arctic temperatures to support us; we are very grateful.”
The santas were rewarded with a festive medal – created by the Workshop Aberfeldy and Aviemore’s Great North Lodges – as well as an activity bag for the children after completing the course.
About £5,000 was raised from the event, with all proceeds being donated to the charity to enable them to continue providing life changing opportunities and experiences through adaptive snowsports for individuals across the north.
Ian Forrester, owner of Aviemore’s Great North Lodges added: “We are delighted to support DSUK, as snowsports are very close to our hearts and we know the joy snowsports can bring.
Together with the Workshop Aberfeldy, we commissioned a very special wooded Christmas Santa Run medal that can be hung on their Christmas trees”.
