Run for the Trees

Jersey Trees for Life has announced Sunday 29 June as the date of its second annual Run for the Trees fundraising event at Val de la Mare, following the success of its inaugural event last October.

This time runners have an extra option, making three in total. The new trail for 2025 is a single 6 km lap of the reservoir that starts and finishes in the top car park, passing through all ten tree collections. The 12 km two-lap option remains in place with both options open to runners aged 16 and above. Runners in these longer races will be able to enjoy the arboretum’s full expanse, including newer trails and paths often overlooked.

As was the case last time, there’s also a shorter 3 km route, down the main path, towards the dam and back. This option takes in a variety of specimen trees displaying their early summer foliage and is open to supervised junior runners aged ten or older.

Parking will be available at the Amaizin! Adventure Park with Val de la Mare closed from 7.30am to 1.00pm on the day. Races will be staggered with the first starting at 9.00am and all finishers will receive a custom-made wooden medal. Funds raised will go towards next season’s winter planting campaign.

Although last year’s event took place in October, this time it’ll be in June, following advice from the charity’s race partner, Rock N Road Runners; October is already the busiest time of year in the local running calendar.

The charity’s CEO Alex Morel commented: “The first Run for the Trees was a resounding success and we’re keen to build on this by making the event part of the local race calendar – which is also why we’ve moved it to a clearer month for the running community. This time we’ve added the 6 km single-loop option too, which expands runners’ options and increases the event’s appeal and accessibility.”

She continued: “Last year showed what a great opportunity this is to encourage people to engage with nature and take in the beauty of Val de la Mare while actively exercising. That’s why we believe Run for the Trees is the perfect fit for Jersey Trees for Life.”