Both parkrunners and a cancer charity with strong ultrarunning connections were given a wonderful surprise when King Charles III attended the Sandringham parkrun as a spectator.
The event takes place on the royal Sandringham Estate in Norfolk every Saturday, attracting a mix of runners and walkers who all complete 5km as part of the parkrun phenomenon, an initiative that was founded in 2004 and now attracts around 400,000 participants each week around the world.
And at more than 120 designated events on the last Saturday of each month in the UK and Ireland it is organised by the MOVE Against Cancer charity’s 5K Your Way group, which encourages anyone impacted by cancer to walk, jog, run, cheer or volunteer – bringing communities together through movement, friendship and encouragement.
Ultrarunning legends
Gemma Hillier Moses founded Move Against Cancer in 2016 after she was diagnosed with cancer in 2012 at the age of 24. As a former international athlete she wanted to use the power sport and exercise to support other young people with cancer.
Then in 2018 and in collaboration with oncologist and professional triathlete, Dr Lucy Gossage, the 5K Your Way, Move Against Cancer Initiative was launched.
That duo have also done amazing things in ultrarunning – having retired from triathlon, Gossage won the fearsome Montane Winter Spine Race – billed as ‘Britain’s most brutal’ ultramarathon – in 2025. It covers 268 miles as it follows the Pennine Way from the Peak District to the English / Scottish border.
And just last weekend Hillier Moses won the Arc of Attrition 50-mile event on the Cornish coast.
‘A memory that will live long into the future’
The Sandringham 5K Your Way, Move Against Cancer group posted on Facebook: WELL, WHAT CAN WE SAY?!? Almost speechless again! 😱
“A heartfelt thank you to His Majesty The King for greeting us on the first lap of Sandringham parkrun in the beautiful setting of the Sandringham Estate this morning. 👑 The sun was shining and lots of people were able to enjoy taking a moment, sharing their stories, and chatting with others as they navigated the course. ☀️🥰
“This is the second time (a year to the day!) that he has surprised us and his continued support of the fantastic initiative that is MOVE Against Cancer Charity and wider raising of the profile of cancer and the forthcoming World Cancer Day on Wednesday (04/02/26) cannot be understated and is truly appreciated. 🩵
“A memory that will live long into the future. 🥰”
The King has been receiving cancer treatment as an outpatient since early February 2024. In December last year, the head of state announced in a video message that his cancer treatment is being reduced in the new year, adding the “good news” was down to early diagnosis, successful care and following “doctors’ orders”.
