Joggers at a weekend parkrun in Sandringham received an unexpected royal boost when King Charles made a surprise appearance to cheer them on. The event, held on Saturday 31 January 2026, was organised in partnership with the Move Against Cancer charity, with the King joining ambassador Sarah Byatt to support participants as they completed their first lap.
A Royal Gesture of Support
This marks the second consecutive year that King Charles has attended the Sandringham parkrun as a spectator. In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, organisers expressed their gratitude, noting that the King's presence provided a memorable moment for all involved. They highlighted his continued backing of the Move Against Cancer initiative and his efforts to raise awareness for World Cancer Day, which falls on Wednesday 4 February 2026.
Personal Connection to Cancer Care
The King's appearance holds particular significance as he has been receiving outpatient cancer treatment since February 2024. In a televised address in December 2025, he shared positive news about his health, attributing it to early diagnosis, effective intervention, and adherence to medical advice. His personal experience adds a layer of empathy and inspiration to his support for the charity event.
Community and Charity Focus
The parkrun was specifically set up through Move Against Cancer's 5K Your Way group, which aims to support individuals living with cancer, along with their families, friends, and healthcare professionals. This initiative encourages participation through walking, jogging, running, cheering, or volunteering at over 120 designated parkrun events across the UK and Ireland on the last Saturday of each month.
Organisers described the sunny morning at the Sandringham Estate as a perfect setting for people to share stories and connect with others while navigating the course. The Royal Family's official social media accounts also promoted the event, explaining the charity's mission to a wider audience.
Wider Impact of Parkrun
Founded in 2004, parkrun has grown into a global phenomenon, with hundreds of thousands of participants across 22 countries taking part in weekly 5km events. The Sandringham parkrun exemplifies how these gatherings foster community spirit, promote physical activity, and support charitable causes, making the King's surprise visit a highlight that will be cherished by attendees for years to come.
