After a tough year of vaccines and lockdowns many of us began to appreciate the true value of a few key parts of life, ranging from community spirit to health and exercise. This was more difficult whilst living in a virtual world but that did not stop us. A great example being the ‘Run 5 Donate 5 Nominate 5’, the viral Instagram challenge originally called ‘Run For Heroes’ encouraging people to run 5km, donate £5 to the NHS and tag five friends. It was a challenge that got everyone involved.

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Another event embodying both exercise and community spirit which we missed out on were our marathons and half marathons. A great opportunity to come together, raise money for charity and challenge ourselves physically. The pandemic halted many of these events. However, organisers of these events such as the Rees Leisure who organise the Winchester Half Marathon were not prepared to let their runners miss out completely and made the event completely virtual!

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Last year Nikki Rees, managing director of Rees Leisure, told the Daily Echo:

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“We are delighted to be able to offer the runners an opportunity to get a sense of achievement during these difficult times, as well as a fantastic Finisher t-shirt and sustainable medal to wear with pride. Exercise is not only important for the body but also for mental health too, so having a goal, like the Winchester Half Virtual Race to work towards can provide some real motivation during these difficult times.”

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Even though the event went ahead in some capacity, it meant that this years in person half marathon was even more exciting! That’s why on the 19th of September 2021 easyStorage Hampshire were happy to lend a hand at the Winchester Half Marathon which, despite some showers, was a huge hit.

The smiling team sponsored the all-important water tables, ensuring runners were well supplied throughout the course. In addition, our truck did what it does best – Storage! Runners were able to take advantage of the space to look after their belongings during the race, knowing they were in good hands, and of course we had plenty of room.

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Up to 2000 runners took part in the event, helping raise money for dozens of local charities, cheered on by family, friends, our easyStorage Hampshire team, and onlookers. The bright orange water tables were easily visible throughout the day and our easyStorage truck provided the perfect gathering point in the runners’ village before and after the event. With special voucher codes included in the event programmes for all runners and supporters alike!

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The marathon finish line is located right in front of the famous Guildhall and allowed for some fantastic photo opportunities for everyone at the event. The team enjoyed it so much that they hope to be appearing in some smaller events around Winchester during the run up to Christmas.

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Team member of easyStorage Hampshire, Robert Shoebridge, said:

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“Our goal is to “Own” Winchester as easyStorage and become the first name people think of when considering storage, through consistent presence. This was a great opportunity for everyone to come together and enjoy a community event that we have all been missing over the past year and a half, and of course the biggest winners were the many local charities, who are more in need than ever of local support. We were proud to play our part and represent easyStorage at a fantastic event for the city.”

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Well, it may just be me but hearing amazing stories like this shows what important pillar our easyStorage teams are within the communities they serve. We are a storage company but we do not just offer storage, we offer a safe place for your belongings with compassionate people who really care! A huge well done to Jamie Domican, Robert Shoebridge and the whole easyStorage Hampshire team – you make us even prouder to wear orange.

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If you are looking to store your running gear for next years Half Marathon or make some more space for you at-home workouts in Hampshire, go to our website and type in your postcode to receive a quote!