Amy and dash for darts ’24

Why did you sign up for the Doncaster City 10K? Have you ran before or are you embarking on a new challenge?

I’m excited to run to the Doncaster City 10K again this year as part of the ‘dash for darts’ team. I’ve taken part in this event a few times now, and I always enjoy the fast, flat course and the enthusiastic crowd support. As it’s my 40th birthday a couple of weeks beforehand I thought it would be a nice way to mark that, while also raising funds for a fantastic charity.

Have you started training? What is motivating you to get out on those autumn runs?

I regularly run about 3 times per week, but I haven’t run the 10k distance since last year’s ‘dash for darts’ so will definitely need some dedicated training to make sure I can get round the course comfortably. A supporter has pledged to sponsor me £10 for every minute under one hour I finish, which is a great motivator to get out there!

Why are you fundraising for darts? What does darts mean to you?

I’ve worked for darts for 10 years this year and in that time, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing first hand how impactful darts’ work is. I’ve met people who have told me what a lifeline our programmes have been when they’ve been going through difficult times and how they’ve literally turned their lives around because of the positive changes darts’ programmes have empowered them to make. I’m proud to contribute such an important charity.

Have you been affected by any of our programmes? 

While all our programmes are important, I feel a particular connection to Creative Directions because it started not long after I did! I have watched it grow and thrive over the years and am inspired by the group’s creativity. It’s a welcoming and inclusive space and participants often tell us it feels “like a family”. People come and go depending on what’s happening in their lives, but there are some who have been part of the group since the very beginning. Because sessions run every week throughout the year (except for the Christmas break), people know they’re welcome any time. I love it when people we haven’t seen for a while come back to the group and receive such a warm welcome.

At darts, we use creativity to express ourselves and help get stronger. Does running have a positive impact on your mood like this? Is that important to you?

Running has a significant positive impact on my mood and exercise in general is an important way for me to maintain good mental health. When I don’t do it, I notice a difference and I know our participants feel the same. Whether they’re attending Dance On, Quirky Choir, Singing for Memory or Creative Directions, participants regularly tell us that when they can’t attend for whatever reason, they really miss it and their physical and mental health suffer. That’s why it’s so important to raise as much money as we can. Every donation will help ensure these vital groups can continue to support people in our community who rely on them.

For those in Doncaster unaware of darts’ work, what would you tell them? 

For those in Doncaster who are unaware, darts is Doncaster’s award-winning creative health charity and the largest participatory arts organisation in the UK. Our team is made up of dedicated, passionate people who truly believe in the power of the arts to connect, inspire and improve lives. We’ve been bringing the arts to people of all backgrounds for over 30 years and work with people of all ages and abilities, creating a space where everyone feels safe to express themselves and explore their creativity. Have a look at our What’s On guide to see how you can get involved.

Any words of motivation to those already signed up to the 10K?

If you’ve already signed up to dash for darts, well done! Keep getting out there and chipping away at the training, and don’t forget to enjoy the race when it comes around. We’re so grateful for all your support. Thank you.

Take 2 minutes to support Amy and keep our programmes running – donate here.