More than 1,000 runners, led by Andy Schleck, official ambassador of the race, met earlier today, Sunday 25 October, in a Luxembourg city-centre park for the first edition of the RBC Race for the Kids ain Luxembourg.

Together they were able to collect €61,000 for children and families in trouble and supported by the Centre thérapeutique Kannerhaus Jean of the Luxembourg Red Cross. All funds, from registration fees and donations collected by runners, are being paid to the Luxembourg Red Cross to assist the Therapeutic Centre change the lives of children with psychological or behavioural disorders and provide support to their families.

The race was started by Lydie Polfer, Mayor of the City of Luxembourg. Michel Simonis, Managing Director of the Luxembourg Red Cross, thanked the participants and organisers for their solidarity: "I am pleased that the racers were present in such great numbers to this inaugural race. I want to thank the Royal Bank of Canada, CSL Luxembourg Athletics Club and the City of Luxembourg for this great initiative. Assisted animal therapy of Kannerhaus Jean depends on the support of the community. This important contribution will ensure the undertaking of this activity on behalf of children."

Yves Lahaye, General Manager RBC Investor & Treasury Services Luxembourg, said "I am delighted that, like in other cities where we organise the RBC Race for the Kids, Luxembourg's residents have mobilised to make such a success of this first edition of the race in the Grand Duchy. We are all proud of RBC and its established partnership with the Luxembourg Red Cross and Kannerhaus Jean."

Andy Schleck said "It's wonderful to see so many people participate in this family festival for a good cause. I congratulate all the organisers, volunteers, runners and everyone who donated for their solidarity with the Kannerhaus Jean and the essential work done on behalf of children in difficulty and their families."

RBC holds the same race in Toronto, New York, Chicago, Minneapolis, Hong Kong, Sydney and London. To date, RBC has raised over €10 million for the benefit of charities for children worldwide.

Photos by Roland Miny