What better incentive to exercise than mingling with royalty? This is the essence of the hugely successful ROYAL RUNS that have been held across Denmark since 2018. Members of the Danish Royal Family have participated in all the main events, meeting and inspiring locals in an informal, festive setting.
The concept is simple: everyone can take part in the ROYAL RUN, regardless of age or fitness level. While some participants are competitive, the ROYAL RUN is more of a community gathering than a race. It’s about encouraging as many people as possible to join in at their own pace with their own individual goals. The majority of participants don’t run to win – they run to be part of the experience.
Participants choose to walk or run one of three distances: The Family Mile (1.6 km), the 5 km run and the 10 km run. For the popular Family Mile, wheelchairs, prams and pushchairs are welcome, allowing young children and seniors to take part. While Royal participation varies from year to year, members of the public have previously run with King Frederik over 10km and Queen Mary in the 5 km and family runs.
The ROYAL RUN takes place on a public holiday over Easter. The event always takes place in Copenhagen and other host cities, that also arrange monthly “Train Together” events that are open to all. Since 2018, Royal Run has featured five host cities each year. The event extends to numerous other locations where institutions like private firms, schools and care homes organise Royal Side Runs, smaller versions of the event. These can be held virtually anywhere – at local sports fields, in schoolyards, at street parties, even in family gardens.
A free download package is offered to participants, including printable race numbers, medals, and other incentives like royal crowns. Event packages containing items like flags, balloons and tape can also be purchased. With the help of these materials, events can be scaled up or down in line with the needs of the participants. Coverage on social and national media ensures that interest remains high.
The event requires extensive coordination, with volunteers playing a significant role. At the helm of the ROYAL RUN is a steering group composed of officials from prominent sports organisations. Local associations or community groups take charge of organising the race at each event location. These organisers are responsible for logistics, safety, and the smooth running of the event.
The ROYAL RUN is organised by the grassroots sports organisation DGI, the Danish Athletics Association and Move for Life, a shared vision to make Denmark the most active nation in the world as well as. State-supported broadcaster TV 2 serves as a media partner while the Tryg Foundation, the Nordea Foundation, and the Novo Nordisk Foundation are all strategic partners.
While the specifics may vary from country to country, the ROYAL RUN’s core principles can easily be adapted to different locations and cultures. Here’s how it could work in another location:
In the absence of a sporty royal family, public figures such as sports personalities or entertainers could be invited to participate. These individuals would serve as the “royalty” for the event, adding a similar level of excitement and prestige.
The focus would remain on community engagement and inclusivity. Participants of all ages and fitness levels would be encouraged to take part in the event, which would feature various distances to accommodate different abilities.
Local associations, sports clubs or community organisations would take responsibility for organising and managing the race in its primary and secondary locations. Participation of local authorities and the relevant government ministry will also be necessary.
Partnering with media outlets is crucial for promoting and generating interest in such events. Television networks, radio stations, and online platforms could serve as media partners to provide coverage and raise awareness. Materials related to media coverage are available here
Securing sponsorship from corporate partners and foundations is essential to help cover the costs of the event. However, many corporate sponsors are eager to be associated with such mass participation events.
The concept can be adapted to suit the cultural context of each location. This could involve incorporating local traditions, stories, or other cultural elements.
The website of the ROYAL RUN is www.royalrun.dk
