Allen Associates returns as headline sponsor of the OX5 RUN

Every step taken on the day raises money for the Oxford Children’s Hospital. That’s a cause close to our hearts, and to the hearts of many of the people we work with across Oxfordshire.

Twenty-five years of running for Oxfordshire’s children

The OX5 RUN began in 2003 as part of the appeal to build the Oxford Children’s Hospital, which opened its doors in 2007. Since then, more than 1,000 runners and walkers have taken part each year, and the event has raised nearly £2 million, with some people having completed every single run.

This money has paid for advanced medical equipment, parent accommodation and practical support for children and families. Today, funds raised through Oxford Hospitals Charity support the Oxford Children’s Hospital and children’s services across Oxford University Hospitals. That includes play areas, sensory equipment for young patients and specialist technology for complex surgery.

As the Oxford Mail reported this week, organisers are planning the biggest OX5 RUN yet to mark the milestone.

Why we’re back

The OX5 RUN has been part of life at Allen Associates for a long time, we were proud to be headline sponsor for 14 years and we entered a team every year, from seasoned runners to those who walked every step with a smile.

The charity has kindly described us as a key part of the event’s history, so when we heard about the 25th anniversary, we wanted to be part of it again. You can see some of our favourite moments from past runs on our community page.

Kate Allen, our founder, reflects on what the partnership means:

“The OX5 RUN has always felt like a family occasion for us. For over a decade we stood at the start line at Blenheim with our team, our clients and our candidates, and every year we came away moved by what the hospital does for children and their families across Oxfordshire. When Oxford Hospitals Charity told us about the 25th run, there was no question in our minds, we had to come back. Supporting our community has been part of who we are since 1998 and this milestone feels like the right moment to bring the whole Allen Associates family together again. I’d love to see as many people as possible join us on 18 April.”

Laura King, from Oxford Hospitals Charity, welcomed us back:

“We are delighted that this year Allen Associates have returned as our headline sponsor of the run. The Oxford-based recruitment consultancy was a key part of the event’s history, so we are thrilled to have them back for this very special year.”

About the run

• When: Sunday 18 April 2027
• Where: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock
• Distance: five miles on an accessible, tarmacked route through the Blenheim estate
• Who can take part: runners, joggers and walkers of all abilities. Children aged 10 and over are welcome, and so are well-behaved dogs on leads. The route is also pushchair friendly.
• Entry: early bird places are £25 for adults and £12 for children if you sign up before 1 December 2026. Your entry covers parking, stewards, timing and an OX5 RUN medal.
• Fundraising: each participant is asked to aim for £250 for the Oxford Children’s Hospital.

Teams, fancy dress and friendly office rivalries are all encouraged.

Run with us

Our team will be lacing up their trainers for 18th April, and we’d love you to join us.

Whether you’re a client, a candidate or a friend of Allen Associates, you’ll be very welcome. Enter on your own or put a team together with your colleagues. We’ll be sharing training updates, fundraising news and race-day plans between now and April.

Sign up for the OX5 RUN 2027 while early bird prices last or find out more at ox5run.com.

If you’d like to run as part of the Allen Associates team, call us on 01865 335600 and we’ll make sure you’re part of the day.