First Mini Monster a resounding success
22 June 2008
Today's inaugural First Mini Monster Challenge in Scotland was hailed a resounding success.
The duathlon event was unique in being aimed specifically at families and hundreds of children and their parents took part in the fun event at Pollok Country Park, Glasgow.
Hosted by FirstGroup, the world’s leading transport company, it was aimed at boosting the merits of exercise and encouraging the competitors to raise money for First’s charity partners, Save the Children.
Gavin Hastings, the Grand Slam winner, who participated in the event with his wife Diane and two children Adam, 11, and Holly, nine, summed up the event in one word: “Fantastic.”
He added: “We really enjoyed First Mini Monster. The atmosphere was great, the camaraderie excellent and the organisation first class. And those who took part have also raised money for First’s charity partners, Save the Children.”
Tanya Steele, Save the Children’s director of supporter relations and fund-raising, said: “The First Mini Monster was really exciting. Our relationship with FirstGroup goes from strength to strength and we are delighted with the firm's commitment and effort to raising money for Save the Children.
“All of the money raised will be spent on our work across the UK with some of the most vulnerable children to ensure they get the best start in life.”
The Family and Friends race involved a 'relay style' 1.5km run or 3km cycle and was followed by an Adults race of 3k run and a 10k cycle.
Among teams were members of First ScotRail’s executive – including Mary Grant, managing director, Peter Williams, commercial director, and Kenny McPhail, finance director. Mark Savelli, Managing Director of First’s bus operations in Glasgow, also took part.
Sir Moir Lockhead, First’s chief executive, said: “We wanted to host an event that really appealed to our staff and customers.
“It was partly motivated to encourage the UK to exercise and we felt that a family oriented sporting challenge was the best means of achieving this.”
All team members received a T-shirt and medal in recognition of their efforts.
www.firstminimonster.co.uk
Media contact: Iain Wilson, Tel: 0141 335 4565
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