RBC Race for the Kids: Help Build a Cancer Centre This October
A Family Day Out With Real Purpose
This October, thousands of Londoners will gather in Hyde Park for RBC Race for the Kids—a vibrant community event that transforms a beautiful autumn afternoon into something truly meaningful. The annual fundraiser returns on Saturday 10 October 2026, bringing together runners, walkers, and families united behind a single cause: supporting children fighting cancer at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or prefer a leisurely stroll through the Royal Park’s golden leaves, there’s a way for everyone to participate. The 5k race kicks off at 10am, with the 2k starting at 11.50am. But this isn’t just about the miles—it’s about the difference your effort makes. Every participant receives a race t-shirt and finisher’s medal, but more importantly, every pound you raise goes directly to building GOSH’s groundbreaking new Children’s Cancer Centre.
For local residents across Hounslow, Whitton, Richmond and beyond, this is an opportunity to support world-class healthcare for the youngest patients. Around 1,900 children receive cancer diagnoses annually across the UK, often facing treatment journeys that steal precious childhood moments. The new centre will change that, offering not just cutting-edge medicine but a home-from-home environment with school facilities, play spaces, and gardens.
Can’t Make Hyde Park? Join as a Home Hero
If Hyde Park on 10 October doesn’t work for your schedule, don’t worry—GOSH Charity has specifically designed flexibility into this year’s event. The ‘Home Heroes’ initiative means you can run or walk your chosen distance anywhere in the country, any time between 5–11 October. Whether you’re fitting it around work, school runs, or other commitments, you can tackle the route locally and still make a real impact.
This approach particularly benefits those in our community who may face barriers to travelling into central London. Parents juggling childcare, older residents, or anyone managing health concerns can participate meaningfully from their own neighbourhood. You can complete your 2k or 5k in one go, or split it across several days—making this genuinely accessible.
Registration is essential and is now open online. The minimum sponsorship target is £100, which unlocks access to a virtual goody bag filled with discounts and giveaways from GOSH Charity partners. Over the past 16 years, RBC Race for the Kids has raised more than £12 million for the hospital. This year, the charity is targeting £1 million specifically for the Children’s Cancer Centre construction—so every registration and pound truly counts.
What Happens Next and How to Get Involved
Getting started is straightforward: head to the official event website and register your participation. When you sign up, you’ll receive your race t-shirt in advance and set up your fundraising page. Share your page with friends, family, colleagues, and your local community—whether that’s neighbours in Hounslow, workmates, or your children’s school network. Personal sponsorship requests often yield the strongest results, especially when you explain why this cause matters to you.
On race day itself (or during your chosen Home Heroes week), enjoy the experience. For those heading to Hyde Park, the atmosphere is infectiously celebratory. After finishing, the festival continues with live entertainment from Butlin’s, games, face painting, and activities for all ages. It’s genuinely a family occasion, not a gruelling endurance test.
Beyond October, stay connected with GOSH Charity’s progress. The new Children’s Cancer Centre will transform care delivery and childhood experiences for some of our most vulnerable young people. By participating—whether running in the park or walking locally—you’re directly contributing to a legacy that will benefit children and families for decades. Register today and mark your calendar. Your community’s participation, however you choose to take part, truly saves and transforms lives.
Source: Race For The Kids At Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity’s Autumn Fundraiser
