MACKIE’S OF SCOTLAND, the beloved ice cream brand, has announced a delightful partnership with one of Aberdeenshire’s most cherished running festivals. Stepping up from being a long-time supporter, Mackie’s will now serve as the official sponsor of Run Garioch’s 5K road race, set to take place on Sunday, May 12, 2024, just a stone’s throw away from the Mackie’s family farm, the birthplace of all Mackie’s ice cream and chocolate.
The Run Garioch Mackie’s 5K, commencing from the Garioch Sports Centre in Inverurie, will weave its way around the town, offering participants a scenic and invigorating route. In an effort to encourage more runners, the race has been opened up to individuals aged 12 and older, a year younger than in previous editions.
As part of Mackie’s sponsorship commitment, the fastest boy and girl between the ages of 12 and 17 will be treated to a year’s supply of Mackie’s ice cream and chocolate. Additionally, all participants will receive a Mackie’s water bottle for their spirited involvement.
Stuart Common, Managing Director of Mackie’s of Scotland, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Our ice cream is enjoyed by families across the country, and as a family-owned company, we understand the importance of bringing families together and giving back to the local community where we all live and work.”
Mackie’s involvement with Run Garioch aligns seamlessly with the family-oriented ethos of the event, which has been a staple since its beginning in 2011. The picturesque route, combined with the opportunity to enjoy a day of fitness and fundraising, makes the Mackie’s 5K an ideal partnership for the family-run business.
Next year’s race aims to expand its positive impact on the community by partnering with a record six charity organisations: AberNecessities, CHAS (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland), Clan Cancer Support, Friends of the Neuro Ward, Friends of ANCHOR, and Inspire/Community Integrated Care.
Graham Morrison, Run Garioch’s Race Director, expressed excitement about the collaboration with Mackie’s, stating, “Everyone at Run Garioch and the Garioch Sports Trust is so excited to be working with Mackie’s and helping them to give back to our community.”
Morrison also highlighted initiatives such as the Inverurie Youth Sports Foundation (IYSF) covering the cost of Mackie’s 5K entries and t-shirts for children who might otherwise be unable to participate. The race will also reintroduce the “Fastest Secondary School” prize, fostering friendly local competition.
Race day in May will feature a tight schedule, with call-ups starting at 09:05, the race kicking off at 09:15, and the prize-giving ceremony at 09:45 in the Event Village. Entries to all events must be made in advance on the Run Garioch website, with entries closing on Sunday, April 28, 2024, or when all places are sold.
Entry to the Mackie’s 5K is priced at £15 (plus booking fee), with the option to add an environmentally friendly t-shirt made from recycled plastic bottles for an additional £12.50. Finishers will receive a Mackie’s water bottle upon crossing the finish line.
