by Claire Boote

“As an MSK Physiotherapist and passionate runner, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of running. But today, I’m reaching beyond personal achievements to invite you into a charity that changes lives—one pair of shoes at a time.”

Claire’s initiative connects our Jersey community with Project Run, a charity in South Africa, founded by Craig Wright after witnessing children running barefoot at the Cannibal Cave park run. There, he watched children running barefoot yet still completing the course for clothing rewards. This sight sparked a mission: collecting running shoes for disadvantaged runners who dream of hitting the pavement but lack the resources for proper footwear.

A Race That Unites: Comrades Marathon

This iconic 90km ultra-marathon between Pietermaritzburg and Durban—isn’t just a test of endurance. “Having lived along this route, I’ve experienced the extraordinary community that forms as over 20,000 runners challenge their limits while spectators cheer them on at dawn with breakfast, sweets, and unwavering support”.

“We aim to collect preloved trainers and ship them to South Africa in time for distribution to those in need regardless of the running distance; from Comrades Marathon to the weekly park runs.”

In the Media

Claire’s passion for this project has also been shared across various social channels, showcasing the powerful impact your donations can make. You may have caught Claire on BBC Radio Jersey last Friday morning discussing the shoe collection initiative (listen back [here]).

While Imelda Marcos may have amassed 3,000 pairs of shoes (and a place in footwear history), we suspect that there are those in Jersey whose running shoe collection might be giving her a run for her money. So, before your friends and family stage an intervention about your footwear obsession, why not transform it into an act of global kindness and eco-friendly kindness?

How you can help:

1. Drop off your clean (but still with mileage left in them) preloved running shoes at our clinic in IFC 5, on the Esplanade, St Helier by March 15th.
2. Forward this email to those with a collection of trainers and help spread the word or share on intranets (if permitted).
3. Display the attached poster in your workplace (yes even if you WFH).

“Remember, each pair represents an opportunity for someone to pursue their passion safely, regardless of economic circumstances and it reuses these shoes that may otherwise go into landfill.”

Thank you

 Claire