On Sunday 8th March, the streets of Cambridge came alive as thousands of runners took on the TTP Cambridge Half Marathon. Among them were an incredible 125 runners representing CPSL Mind, our largest team ever at this iconic event.
From the early morning buzz at the start line to the emotional moments crossing the finish line on Midsummer Common, the day was filled with determination, community spirit and a shared commitment to supporting better mental health.
Every one of our runners showed extraordinary dedication – training for months, pushing through 13.1 miles, and raising vital funds to help ensure that no one in our community has to face a mental health challenge alone.
A Record-Breaking Team Effort
Having 125 runners take part for CPSL Mind is an incredible milestone for the charity. Each runner had their own motivation for taking on the challenge – whether running for their own mental health, in memory of someone special, to support a loved one, or simply because they believe in the importance of accessible mental health support.
Together, they formed a powerful team united by one purpose: making better mental health possible across Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and South Lincolnshire.
Nearly £56,000 Raised and Still Growing
Thanks to the incredible efforts of our runners and the generosity of supporters, Team CPSL Mind has raised £55,966 so far, with donations continuing to come in after race day.
Every pound raised helps us provide life-changing support through our community services, peer groups and one-to-one support. As demand for mental health support continues to grow, fundraising events like the Cambridge Half Marathon play a vital role in ensuring we can be there for people when they need us most.
There is still time to support Team CPSL Mind and help the total grow even further. Anyone wishing to donate can do so via our GivenGain page:
www.givengain.com/campaign/support-us-via-the-cambridge-half-marathon-2026-31119
Running for a Cause
Among those taking part was Alex Parker-Wiseman, CPSL Mind’s Fundraising and Events Manager, who experienced the challenge from the runner’s side this year.
Alex said:
“I spend a lot of time talking to our amazing supporters about the impact fundraising has on the services we deliver, but being part of the team running the Cambridge Half Marathon gave me a whole new appreciation for the commitment involved. Seeing so many CPSL Mind runners on the course was incredibly moving. Every step taken and every pound raised helps ensure we can continue supporting people across our communities who are struggling with their mental health.”
Personal Stories That Inspire
For many runners, the race was deeply personal.
Sarah, who ran for CPSL Mind after experiencing her own mental health challenges, wanted to use the event as a way to give back and prove to herself how far she had come.
She shared:
“For a long time my mental health held me back from doing the things I wanted to do. Running the Cambridge Half Marathon was my way of proving to myself that I could do it. CPSL Mind supported me through some really difficult times, and I wanted to give something back so that others can get the same support that helped me get to the other side.”
Pushing Through the Challenge
Another member of the team, James, reflected on the experience after crossing the finish line:
“Running 13.1 miles is never easy, but knowing I was doing it for CPSL Mind made every mile worthwhile. The support along the route was incredible and seeing other runners wearing the CPSL Mind vest really kept me going. It’s amazing to know that by taking part we’re helping more people access the mental health support they need.”
The Power of Community
What makes the Cambridge Half Marathon so special isn’t just the distance, it’s the people.
Throughout the course, runners were cheered on by crowds of supporters, volunteers and fellow participants, creating an atmosphere that carried many through the toughest miles. Seeing so many CPSL Mind running vests on the course was a powerful reminder of the community standing behind this cause.
Thank You
To our 125 runners – thank you. Your dedication, perseverance and generosity are truly inspiring.
To everyone who donated, shared fundraising pages, cheered along the route or supported behind the scenes – thank you for helping make this event such a success.
Because of you, more people in our communities will be able to access the mental health support they deserve.
What’s Next?
If this year’s Cambridge Half Marathon has inspired you, there are plenty more ways to get involved and support CPSL Mind.
Our next major running event is the Great Eastern Run in Peterborough on Sunday 11th October, and we would love for you to join #TeamCPSLMind.
Whether you’re an experienced runner or looking for your next challenge, you can help us continue raising vital funds for mental health support across our region.
We also have a number of other exciting fundraising events lined up throughout the year, including Tough Mudder, an Ely to Cambridge walk, and plenty of other opportunities for people to get involved and support mental health in our community.
For more information or to sign up, please contact fundraising@cpslmind.org.uk.
March 2, 2026
