Cambridge Colleges open their gates for Chariots of Fire

On 21 September, Trinity College and King’s College will once again open their prestigious gates and grounds to host Chariots of Fire runners.

These two colleges are long standing institutions that have been at the heart of Cambridge for centuries, and whose dedication to the fields of research have netted 48 Nobel Laureates between them.

Alongside their formidable contributions to research, the Colleges are also renowned for their stunning grounds, which will be the picturesque backdrop for Chariots of Fire runners, as they raise money for this year’s official charity, Road Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity.

Runners start the 1.7 mile race on Queen’s Green, from where they will race down towards Trumpington Street and past the iconic King’s College Chapel, before heading off down Senate House Passage.

Built during the reign of Henry VIII, the Chapel is emblematic in Cambridge and is regarded as one of the finest examples of late English Gothic architecture.

Shortly afterwards, the runners are diverted into the grounds of Trinity College, where they will run through the paddocks and over the 250-year-old Trinity Bridge, a location that is usually closed to the public. One of 26 bridges that cross the River Cam in the city, the bridge is in fact a Grade I listed building.

Next, the runners are diverted down Garret Hostel Lane, then into King’s College, to run alongside the River Cam, with a fabulous view of the College’s beautiful lawns and gardens.

Runners pass by the white marble, Xu Zhimo memorial stone, featuring the first two lines of the Chinese poet’s poem, ‘Second Farewell to Cambridge’, which is known by heart by many Chinese school children.

After sprinting back on to Queen’s Green, they complete their section, passing the baton on to the next runner.

HCR Hewitsons Charity Trustee, Colin Jones, said: “We’re extremely grateful to the Colleges for their continued support. Being able to include their grounds in the race route is a privilege and I know from first-hand experience, that running through these beautiful surroundings certainly helps to motivate the runners.

Chariots of Fire has a legacy of bringing together the college, business and local communities in a unique way and I am sure that this year will be no exception.”

Funds raised through this year’s Chariots of Fire race are going to the official charity partner, Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, who are seeking to raise £75,000 to help them bring much needed specialist nurses to support seriously ill children in Cambridgeshire.

For those runners taking part in the college category, the intercollegiate cup, won in 2024 by Darwin College, is up for grabs.

The race starts and finishes on Queens’ Green on Sunday 21 September.

To enter a team, visit https://www.chariots-of-fire.co.uk/

To support our fundraising for Road Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, visit our JustGiving page here.