Tenth annual 'Run for Joel' to return to Sandwell in memory of student killed in terrorist attack
Suzanne Richards MBE set up the charity after losing Joel as well as her father, Pat and brother Ade, in the 2015 Tunisia terrorist attack that killed 38 people.
The tenth annual Run for Joel has been announced, with runners of all ages and abilities invited to take part at Sandwell Valley Country Park.
Runners, walkers, and even dogs are invited to take part in either a 5km or 3km event which begins with runners covering themselves in environmentally friendly paint powder, creating a rainbow of unique colours to run in.
The event takes place on the morning of Sunday 7 June from 9am and is held by the charity Smile for Joel, which was set up to remember University of Worcester student Joel Richards.
His mother Suzanne Richards MBE set up the charity after losing Joel as well as her father, Pat and brother Ade, in the 2015 Tunisia terrorist attack that killed 38 people.
Since then, the charity set up in his memory has raised thousands of pounds to support families who are victims of terrorism and murder.
Suzanne was awarded an MBE and a Pride of Britain Award for her work with the charity.
She said of the event: ““This is the tenth Run for Joel we’ve done and It’s always a brilliant event.
“We love seeing families come along and do the shorter run together. There will be families walking it and running it, people bring their dogs along and we even see kids on bikes, it’s just wonderful.”
The day will begin at 9am, with the 5km beginning at 10am and the 3km beginning at 11am.
Suzanne added: “Before we set off, the runners take a sachet of paint powder and we throw it in the air to cover ourselves in bright and vivid colours,
“Not everyone gets colourful; some runners don’t want to get paint on their best running shoes so they just cheer on from the side.”
“For us, this event is always about our community. We have hundred of people come along every year and they run together, have fun, and remember Joel, Ade, and Dad.”
The event costs £15 for the 5km, and £12 for the 3km. Children under 12 taking part in the 3km are £5, and infants under 2 can take part for free.
The price includes entry to the event, a running bib, powder paint and a limited edition Run for Joel 2026 wristband.
Runners are encouraged to set up a personal fundraising page to support Smile for Joel via the charity’s JustGiving page or more details and sign up is available on the event’s webpage
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