Future of top 10k secured by Corus support

21 Dec 2007

One of the UK’s most prestigious road races, held in memory of arguably Wales’s greatest ever actor, has been given a significant financial boost by Corus.

The Richard Burton 10K run in Cwmafon, which began nearly 27 years ago, offers a £3,000 prize fund and attracts some of Britain’s top athletes.  The 2008 race, taking place on January 6 2008, will have Corus as its main sponsor after the company stepped in to support it for the first time.

The race was originally intended to raise funds for a family who had lost loved ones in a car crash.  Two years later, local hero Richard Burton gave permission to use his name as the race title.

“Sadly, he died six months later,” said Chairman John Williams.  “But his widow Sally contacted us to say that she would be pleased if we kept Richard's name in our race title.

“Sally became our president and has supported us for many years - without her we would most certainly have not been able to carry on with the event or be in the position we are today.  With the backing of Sally and Graham Jenkins, Richard's brother, last year we saw in our 25th anniversary by holding our first ever Welsh championships.”

The event includes a 5K fun run, and all proceeds go to Macmillan Cancer Care and local charities St John’s Ambulance and Cwmafan OAPs.

As main sponsor, Corus' funding will be used towards the prize money, commemorative t-shirts for each competitor, lanyards for medals and other merchandise.

“The event is also supported by the local council and small businesses,” John Williams added.  “But we’re delighted this year to welcome Corus as our main sponsor via the efforts of Keith Farron, who has ensured the life of these races for at least another three years.”

Corus is an increasingly important investor in sporting events in the Port Talbot area, having supported a wide range of competitions in 2007 ranging from the Corus Triathlon to the Welsh Surf Life Saving Championships and Aberavon Round the Pier Swim.

Keith Farron, the company’s Community Spokesman, said: “The Richard Burton 10k is an institution in Port Talbot and many of Corus’ workers take part every year.  With a fantastic course and great atmosphere, it’s a must for those who enjoy running and supporting charities.  Corus is very happy to be associated with it.”

The races headquarters is at Cwmafan Community Centre.  Runners can enter on the day, or download entry forms from www.richardburtonroadrace.com