ITV West – Bournside students Ollie and Casper run 50km in memory of their best friend, Ellison [Video]

🏃‍♂️ Ollie and Casper face 50km – 5 miles more than a marathon – to raise funds for the Bone Cancer Research Trust 🏃‍♂️

Two Year 10 students and friends, Ollie Burridge and Cas Hambling, ran 50km around Cheltenham in memory of their close friend, Ellison, who died in February 2021, aged just 11, from Ewing Sarcoma a form of bone cancer.

The challenge began at Cheltenham parkrun at Pittville Park & Lake on Saturday 11th May (4 days ahead of what would’ve been Ellison’s 15th birthday). The route then took in places of significance: Gloucestershire Royal Hospital where Ellison received much of his treatment; Cranham Scout Centre where the boys spent several Cubs Camps; Leckhampton Hill where dens were built and dogs were walked; Naunton Park Primary School and Sandford Parks Lido to name a few. The finish line was in Naunton Park where Ellison’s tree is planted.

Friends and family will be joined sections of the run and the boys had hoped to complete the 50km in 6-6.5 hours and to raise more than £2,500. They completed the run in just over 6.5 hours on a very warm day, and the current fundraising total stands in excess of £9,500!

Mr Crowford, Head of Frank House, said; “It really is an amazing thing that Ollie and Casper are doing at 15 – 50km is 5 miles longer than a marathon! Ollie broke his collarbone earlier this year which impacted his training but that has not stopped their determination to finish the challenge and to raise as much money in memory of their friend and for a cause that is close to their heart. This inspiring challenge is a true representation of our school values; Ambition, Pride, Purpose, Respect and Support. We are incredibly proud of them both!”

🧡 If you would like to donate to Ellison’s Fund to raise vital funds for life-saving research in Ewing Sarcoma, please visit: www.justgiving.com/page/casollieandfriendsrunfundraiser

🧡 To find out more about the Ellison’s Fund which has raised more than £40,000 to date and the Bone Cancer Research Trust, please visit: https://specialfunds.bcrt.org.uk/ellisons-fund/