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The Grand Shaftesbury Run, previously known as the Great Shaftesbury Run, is an off-road, rural half marathon and 10k course that takes place on the historic Shaftesbury Estate in Wimborne St Giles, Dorset, England. Both courses start and finish in the park at St Giles House, the historic home of the Earls of Shaftesbury. The inaugural event, held on 12 June 2011, opened the family estate to the public for the first time in 60 years. The run is a charity fundraiser established by the 12th Earl of Shaftesbury. The estate additionally provides opportunities for families and friends throughout St Giles Park. The inaugural event took place in the pouring rain. Almost 500 people participated with half of the entrants running the half-marathon, while the other half ran the entire 10k. The second annual run is scheduled for 27 May 2012. == Background == In December 2009, Nicholas Ashley-Cooper, 12th Earl of Shaftesbury, suffered serious spinal injuries in a riding accident, crushing several vertebrae in the fall.〔 He was initially airlifted to hospital in Dorchester, but transferred to Southampton, where he had a metal plate and screws inserted, and then to the Salisbury District Hospital, where he spent Christmas and New Year. While he experienced initial paralysis necessitating the use of a wheelchair, physical therapy helped restore his health to the point where he has been able to regain his strength and participate in competitive and recreational runs on a regular basis. When asked why he started the Grand Shaftesbury Run, Lord Shaftesbury stated,
The Grand Shaftesbury Run was initially known as the ''Great'' Shaftesbury Run. In January 2012, the name was changed in response to a request from the organizers of the Great North Run, who shared that they had trademarked the phrase "Great ... Run". Rather than alienate their friends or step on toes, Lord Shaftesbury honored the request and changed the name, stating he is "looking forward to becoming the Grandest Run out there". Opportunities for families and friends not participating in the run are available throughout St Giles Park. The estate provides food, music, and games for children and adults, along with plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the surroundings in front of St Giles House. There are also several vantage points from which to watch the race, either in the park itself, along the lanes in Wimborne St Giles, or at one of the designated water points along the course. 抄文引用元・出典: フリー百科事典『 ウィキペディア（Wikipedia）』 ■ウィキペディアで「Grand Shaftesbury Run」の詳細全文を読む スポンサード リンク
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