Donald Does 5K
Donald the duck is Basingstoke Loddon Rotary Club’s much-loved mascot for the annual Bartons Mill Duck Race. This Sunday, he swapped the river for the road, making a special appearance at the Basingstoke 5k!
On a very warm 4th October, our very own Rich Brindle took on the challenge of running the Basingstoke 5k, accompanied by his lovely wife Katharine Brindle and club president Rebecca Vincent. Several other club members were also out on the course volunteering as marshals, helping to keep the runners on track, offering encouragement and cheering everyone on.
There was a fantastic atmosphere throughout the race, with plenty of people keen to meet Donald along the way. He even bumped into the purple Hippo from Victoria’s Promise, the town Mayor and fellow Rotary club member Hiro Fam.
The race was very well attended, and Rich was spurred on by the incredible support from the crowds:
“I enjoyed the energy of the supporters and the community feel, especially as we ran past cars whose drivers honked their horns and waved encouragement. Some even stopped to donate.”
Rich’s main aim's were to raise awareness of Rotary and generate funds to support local causes throughout the year. Both objectives were achieved brilliantly — and the £700 fundraising target was absolutely smashed!
A huge thank you to every single person who donated, offered encouragement or supported Donald along the route. Your generosity and enthusiasm made a real difference.
And, of course, a huge well done and many thanks to Rich for all his hard work and determination. Donald will now be flying south to put his feet up for the winter, but he’ll be back in May 2027 for the next Basingstoke Loddon Rotary Duck Race at Bartons Mill!