Brave six-year-old completes Glasgow Santa Dash amid brain tumour fight for Beatson Cancer Charity

A six-year-old currently receiving treatment for an aggressive brain tumour was amongst almost 4,000 participants who braved the cold to take part in Glasgow’s first Santa Dash in three years on Sunday.

Cole Park from Kirkintilloch completed the run in his wheelchair pushed by a team of around 30 supporters including his mum, Michelle.

The festive family fun run took place on a new 5K route starting and finishing at Glasgow Green.

Cole is receiving treatment at the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre and was guest of honour at the event.

Along with his family and friends, he was raising money for the Beatson Cancer Charity and managed to walk over the finish line.

Bailie Paul McCabe of Glasgow City Council started the run which snaked around the park, through the Gorbals and along the riverside.

He said: “It’s wonderful to see the Santa Dash return in such style and with huge support. Everyone loves the Santa Dash, it is held in great affection by runners and spectators alike and there was huge disappointment when it couldn’t go ahead in person during the pandemic.

“Today’s event was really uplifting. It put a huge smile on everyone’s face. We had a fantastic turn out and the wintry weather made it feel even more festive. Well done to everyone who took part.”

The Santa Dash was organised by the city council in partnership with Beatson Cancer Charity whose mascot Bella the Bee greeted the crowds.

Any profits from the event’s registration fees will be split between the Beatson Cancer Charity and the Lord Provost’s fund for vulnerable children.

Medals were presented to everyone who crossed the finish line at the 2014 Commonwealth Games sculpture.

Martin Cawley, CEO of Beatson Cancer Charity said: “The Santa Dash is such a wonderful event and takes place at a very special time of the year for us all. We are delighted to work alongside our colleagues in Glasgow City Council to bring the event back after a couple of years relying on virtual support. It is great to see so many families get involved.

“It shows the level of generosity from the people of Glasgow. The proceeds from this year’s Santa Dash will help Beatson Cancer Charity continue to deliver invaluable support to people with cancer in Glasgow and across the west. Quite simply, we couldn’t do the work we do without the support of so many others.”