In December 2009, Nicholas Ashley-Cooper, 12th Earl of Shaftesbury, suffered serious spinal injuries in a riding accident, crushing several vertebrae in the fall.

[5] While he experienced initial paralysis necessitating the use of a wheelchair, physical therapy helped restore his health to the point where he has been able to regain his strength and participate in competitive and recreational runs on a regular basis.

Rather than alienate their friends or step on toes, Lord Shaftesbury honored the request and changed the name, stating he is "looking forward to becoming the Grandest Run out there".

The estate provides food, music, and games for children and adults, along with plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the surroundings in front of St Giles House.

The running trail ends as participants head back to the estate park, running alongside some of the key features of the estate, including the serpentine lake, the garden grotto, and finally arriving at the beech grove down the avenue in front of St Giles House to the finish line and a crowd of family, friends, and community onlookers.

[10] The Run takes runners through the historic estate's woodlands, green leafy forest, around fields, and along the bridleway tracks.

The service offers charities the opportunity to recruit fundraisers and collect sponsorship through a coordinated online presence, without charging a commission on donations made through their website.