New York has been voted as the best place in the world to go running, according to a study of best sporting destinations by British Airways. The airline polled 2,000 people, to find the best and worst places abroad for sporting pursuits. The results have been unveiled for Sport Relief, the airline’s charity partner.
The Manhattan landmark is already a favourite jogging spot for celebrities including Ricky Gervais , Madonna , and Jake Gyllenhaal . It beat Sydney Harbour, Australia and London’s Richmond Park for first place. Conversely, Death Valley, USA was named the worst place to run, due to its gruelling terrain and stifling heat.
Douglas Blonsky, President & CEO of Central Park Conservancy, said:“Central Park plays an important role in the health and happiness of so many people, welcoming more than 40 million visitors every year. Ten percent of those visitors are runners! Central Park Conservancy is proud to be responsible for the Park’s restoration and maintenance, and thankful to the many supporters who make our work possible.”
With its turquoise waters the Maldives was voted the best place on the planet to swim, followed by Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, and Singapore’s dramatic Marina Bay Sands rooftop pool, towering 650 ft. above street level.
In cycling, England’s Yorkshire Dales triumphed over California’s sun-kissed Venice Beach and the country lanes of the Isle of Wight, as the best destination for two-wheel sport.
Sport Relief is encouraging the public to make every mile count by running, swimming or cycling to raise cash, including landmark events at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, where British Airways hosted ‘Park Live’ during the London 2012 Games.
British Airways is supporting Sport Relief through internal and external fundraising activity, and hopes to add to the £6.5 million it has already raised for Comic Relief through its ‘Flying Start’ partnership. Further information available at www.ba.com/flyingstart
