A group shot of Macmillan runners at Run Regents Park 2019

Organise your own run

Organise your own running challenge for Macmillan. You choose the route, you choose when, and you make the rules.

Creating your own running challenge is an exciting way to support people living with cancer. You choose the route, you choose when, and you make the rules.
Register your event

When you register your event

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You get helpful tips and advice
Receive ideal tips and advice for your type of event.
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Lets us know you are supporting Macmillan
We love hearing how you’re supporting us, so please share your story.
You get fundraising support
Our team can help you reach your target by offering tips, advice and support by phone.

Quick steps to plan your running challenge

The number one.

Choose a route

Whether you are a pavement pounder or an off-road runner, you have the whole of the UK's fantastic footpath network at your fingertips. Check out Trailzilla for detailed maps to help plan your route.

The number two.

Choose a date(s)

Whether you go for a one-day challenge or spread it out over a period of time, choose a date to make it real. Then let the training commence.
The number three.

Get your team together

It’s safer and more fun to complete challenges with others. And the bigger your team is, the bigger your network of fundraising support will be. 
The number four.

Register your challenge

Register your challenge so we can support you through your challenge.
The number five.

Set up your fundraising page

Set up your JustGiving fundraising page so your network of friends and family can support your challenge.

Helping you raise money

Whether you’re running a marathon or hosting a bake sale, we’re here to help you every step of the way.  
A woman uses a laptop on her dining room table.A woman uses a laptop on her dining room table.
Get started
Ready to start fundraising? From setting up an online fundraising page to getting those all-important first donations, we'll help you get off to a winning start. 
A man standing on a running track, proudly holds out the Macmillan logo on his running top to show he's running for Macmillan Cancer Support.A man standing on a running track, proudly holds out the Macmillan logo on his running top to show he's running for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Keep your fundraising on track
Wondering about how to ask for donations? Or how to fit fundraising into a busy schedule? We'll help you keep the money coming in and hit that fundraising-life balance. 
A woman smiles and dances with a man in garden. There are other people dancing in the background and there is bunting hanging.A woman smiles and dances with a man in garden. There are other people dancing in the background and there is bunting hanging.
Your event day covered
The big day is here! It's all been leading up to this. Our tips will help you raise more money in the build-up and prepare for a great day. 
Two people in green Macmillan cycling tops standing at finish line. Both holding their bicycles in their arms above their heads and smiling. Two people in green Macmillan cycling tops standing at finish line. Both holding their bicycles in their arms above their heads and smiling.
Post event advice
You did it! You should be so proud. Here's advice to help you keep the donations coming in, thank your supporters, and pay in your fundraising. 

Your impact

In 2020, our supporters raised over £750,000 by organising their own physical activity challenges, including runs. That money could support our Cancer Information and Support team to run our Macmillan Support Line phone service for five months. In this time, they could deal with over 40,000 calls and web enquiries from people who want questions answered, need practical or financial support, or just want to chat.

Find out more about why your support matters.

Frequently asked questions

If you can't find the answer you're looking for below, please email running@macmillan.org.uk and the team will be happy to help.

Fundraising

  • I need some help with fundraising ideas, can you help?

    We love fundraising and want to help make sure it's as easy as possible for you. We've got lots of ideas to help get the money rolling in.

  • Can I get another sponsorship form?

    Yes, you can download another sponsorship form here.

    If you don't have access to a printer, you can ask us for one us by emailing running@macmillan.org.uk and we'll post one straight out to you and you can carry on with your fundraising.

  • I’ve done my run, how do I pay the money in?

    Paying your money is easy. Find out how.

Planning and preparation

  • How far in the future should I pick a date for my run?

    Lots of things can affect how far in advance you plan your run. Will you need to do some training? Will you want to hold extra fundraising events to help you reach your fundraising target?


    If you're hoping to lead a long-distance run, how much notice might people need to get it in their diaries?


    Most of our runners start planning three to six months before their challenge to give them plenty of time to fit fundraising and training around their busy lives. If you're planning something super ambitious, you might need a bit longer. Don't underestimate the amount of training you may need to do to feel ready for your run, so give yourself plenty of time.

  • What can I do to make sure my run is safe?

    Solo running events


    If you are taking on a solo challenge, it can be safer - and more fun - to have friends or family meet you at points along the way. If that's not possible, make sure there's someone who knows your route and is waiting to meet you at the end.


    Runner's World have released some helpful, up to date guidance about running safely during Coronavirus.


    Group running events


    If you are leading or organising a run, one of the most important things to do is a risk assessment. This will help you to anticipate and plan for anything that might go wrong. You can find advice about how to do a risk assessment at the Health and Safety Executive.


    There's also some useful information on organising your own event from the Institute of Fundraising.


    You will also need to consider whether you need insurance. This might be insurance for yourself if you're doing an overseas run, or public liability insurance if you're holding a public event. For private events this may not be necessary.


    If you need further advice, get in touch with our Supporter Care team on 0300 1000 200 or by emailing running@macmillan.org.uk.

  • What running gear do I need to take?

    This may depend on the type of run you'll be doing. We've got lots of helpful advice to get you prepared for your run.

  • Where can I find help with running training?

    We have training plans to get you in tip-top shape. You should also check out our practical tips and information and our guidance on how to stretch, strengthen, and fuel for your run with professional advice from our training partner Running with Us.

Macmillan materials

  • Can I get extra t-shirts for my event?

    We'll send you a t-shirt in the post with your welcome pack. You can buy a technical running t-shirt, water bottles and other useful items from our online shop.

  • How can I get posters and flyers to advertise my event?

    You can create your own event materials on be.Macmillan. Once you've registered on the website you can create any materials you need for your event.

Get in touch

0300 1000 200
Our Support Line is available Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm
Email us
Get in touch by email
Fundraising FAQs
Answers to common questions our supporters have about supporting Macmillan – how to pay in money, changing your details, making a donation.
Fundraising tips
Get top tips and advice from Macmillan on how to maximise your fundraising.