Cancer Research UK’s Pretty Muddy 5K is no ordinary fundraising event. It’s a thrilling, muddy, obstacle-filled adventure that brings people together to raise vital funds for life-saving cancer research. This 5K obstacle course, designed for participants of all fitness levels, is all about climbing, crawling, and sliding through mud-soaked challenges while making a difference. Among the inspiring participants at the 2024 Preston Pretty Muddy 5K are Lesley Delaney and her daughter, a dynamic duo ready to tackle the course and support a cause close to their hearts.
What is Pretty Muddy 5K?
Pretty Muddy is a unique event in Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life series, which has raised over £970 million for cancer research since 1994. Unlike traditional runs, Pretty Muddy is a non-competitive 5K (just over 3 miles) obstacle course packed with fun and messy challenges. From scrambling under cargo nets to sliding through muddy pits, participants face a variety of obstacles that test their grit and spirit. The event is open to everyone aged 13 and older, with Pretty Muddy Kids events available for younger fundraisers aged 6-12. It’s a chance to get active, have fun, and contribute to groundbreaking research into all 200 types of cancer.
The Preston Pretty Muddy 5K is one of many events held across the UK, with staggered start times (or “waves”) every 15 minutes to ensure safety. Participants can go solo or join as a group, walking, jogging, or running at their own pace. The event’s vibrant atmosphere, complete with warm-up sessions, cheering supporters, and post-race picnics, makes it a memorable day out. Plus, every participant is encouraged to raise at least £50 to support Cancer Research UK’s mission to beat cancer sooner.
A mother-daughter mission
Among the fundraisers at the Preston Pretty Muddy 5K are Lesley Delaney and her daughter, who are lacing up their trainers and embracing the mud for a powerful cause. For Lesley and her daughter, this event is more than just a fun day out; it’s a personal commitment to supporting cancer research which has touched Lesley’s family. Their participation highlights the event’s inclusive spirit, bringing together families, friends, and communities to honour loved ones affected by cancer and fund research that saves lives.
Lesley and her daughter have been training together, preparing to tackle obstacles like the giant inflatable mud pit, cargo net climb, and the iconic muddy slide. “We’re so excited to take on Pretty Muddy,” Lesley shared. “It’s a chance to do something meaningful together while having a laugh and getting absolutely covered in mud!” Their enthusiasm reflects the heart of Pretty Muddy: it’s not about speed or competition but about coming together to make a difference.
The duo has been actively fundraising, using Cancer Research UK’s Giving Page to collect donations and sharing tips from the event’s fundraising pack. They’ve also joined the Race for Life Super Supporters Facebook group to connect with other participants and stay motivated. For Lesley and her daughter, every pound they raise is a step closer to a world where cancer no longer instills fear.
Why Pretty Muddy matters
Since its inception, Race for Life has empowered over 10 million participants to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. Pretty Muddy, with its playful yet purposeful format, has become a favourite for those looking to combine fitness, fun, and philanthropy. The money raised supports world-class research into treatments for cancers like bowel, prostate, lung, and leukaemia, helping more people live longer, healthier lives.
Our efforts, alongside thousands of others, fund scientists working to outsmart cancer. Stories of survival, like that of a 2021 Pretty Muddy participant who completed the course while in remission from stage 4 colorectal cancer, underscore the impact of these events. Every muddy step taken at Preston’s Pretty Muddy 5K contributes to this legacy.
How to get involved
Inspired by Lesley and her daughter? You can join the fight against cancer by signing up for a Pretty Muddy event near you. Visit the Race for Life website to find an event, set up your fundraising page, and start training. Don’t worry about fitness levels; Pretty Muddy is for everyone, and marshals are on hand to help you skip any obstacles if needed. Bring spare clothes (you’ll get muddy!), a reusable water bottle, and your enthusiasm.
Can’t participate? Consider volunteering as an obstacle marshal or cheering on participants. Every bit of support counts. For more details, contact the Race for Life team at 0300 123 0770 or check event pages for specifics on facilities like bag drops or pet policies.
Join the movement
Pretty Muddy is more than an event; it’s a celebration of resilience, community, and hope. Lesley and her daughter are ready to dive into the mud at Preston’s Pretty Muddy 5K, and you can too. Sign up, get muddy, and help Cancer Research UK beat cancer sooner. Together, we’re unstoppable.