ONE OF Reading’s hottest competitions is set to return next month in aid of helping the homeless.
Launchpad’s annual Pancake Race is back for its 27th event in February, when teams of fun-runners will vie for victory in fancy dress while flipping pancakes.
The winning team will not only secure the admiration of all, but also take home the prized frying pan trophy.
With support from Reading’s Business Improvement District, the race takes place along Broad Street on Shrove Tuesday, when spectators will line the route to cheer on competitors.
The event raises money for Launchpad, a charity which supports homeless people and those at risk of losing their homes in Reading.
This includes providing supported housing, drop-in services, skills training, and signposting for other services.
Last year’s event saw the team at creative agency TMW take the top prize while donning electric blue shell suits, winning out over 35 other teams.
Previous races have seen teams competing as characters from the Super Mario franchise as well as playing cards, dinosaurs, and astronauts.
Volunteers and participants are being sought for the event, with teams of four eligible for the race.
Fiona Keyte, Launchpad’s fundraising manager, said: “Launchpad’s annual Pancake Race is always a highly anticipated event on the town calendar and is thoroughly enjoyed by all; whether you are taking part or spectating, it really is a sight to behold.
“The ever-creative costumes and Olympic-standard competition make it cracking good fun.”
She explained: “We’re very much a local charity working in close partnership with the Reading community, and the ongoing support we receive from local businesses is hugely appreciated.
“The Pancake Race is a wonderful way for people to get involved and join in with this incredible sense of community spirit.”
Volunteers are being sought to help with collecting donations from the event, admin, and monitoring, with more details available by contacting: fundraising@launchpadreading.org.uk
Teams from businesses in Reading still have time to sign up and take part, with registration for the event also available by contacting: fundraising@launchpadreading.org.uk
To register more than one team, or for more details, contact: 0118 950 7656
Registration costs £125 for teams of four.
Registration closes on Friday, February 9, and places are allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.
Launchpad’s annual Pancake Race takes place on Tuesday, February 13.
