THE GREAT North Run is now only days away – Sunday, 13 September! Last week we introduced you to five of the DS43 runners – this week we feature the final five making up this year’s team. They will all be in DS43 running tops, kindly provided once again free of charge by Charles Dickens LOGOTOGO – helping to both draw attention to the charity and helping everyone spot the runners amongst the sea of entrants.
Sally is running in memory of her sister Vicky who died suddenly last year from an unexplained cardiac arrest. Sally understands how, having readily accessible defibrillators in the community, can make a difference and that’s why she has chosen to run for us while, at the same time, honouring her sister. We have no doubt it will be an emotional day for Sally and her family but what a tribute to her sister Vicky! Good luck Sally!
Bradley, a good friend of Danny’s, will be running for the second time for us in Danny’s memory. No doubt he is hoping to beat last years’ time of two hours, one minute and six seconds but the main thing is – stay-safe Bradley and just soak up the atmosphere. Danny would be so proud of your ongoing support, as are we!
Kevin, who has witnessed the positive impact of our awareness sessions on young people at the Hartlepool College of FE, says: “Knowing the money raised will help provide lifesaving equipment and education across Hartlepool makes every mile worthwhile”. Enjoy the experience Kevin and thank you for the support, it really means a lot to us!
Jack – this is the second year in succession that Jack has taken on the run for DS43. He says: “I want to help DS43 continue its vital mission of equipping our community with the tools and awareness needed to respond in critical moments”. He completed the run in one hour 33 minutes and 40 seconds last year – quite a target to beat Jack! Enjoy the run and thank you!
Last, but not least is Liam. This year is his second time competing in the Great North Run but his first for DS43. Liam is one of our Guardians, helping to take care of the defibrillators on the estate where he lives. He had the idea of running with a defibrillator and cabinet strapped to his back – it does also mean he is running carrying an additional 11 kilos! What a great way to draw attention to the importance of community defibrillators and an exceptionally courageous thing for him to do. Well done Liam and thank you! We hope the atmosphere on the day lightens your load and helps make it all worthwhile.
A massive thank you to all of our runners, for all the training they have put in and support they are giving us and, of course, for all of the donations they have received. Our message to each and every runner – please put your own wellbeing first – it’s not the time you take to complete the course – it’s that you chose to do it for us, above all else just enjoy the experience!
Bill and I will be spending the day at Marsden Rocks, which is a mile before the finish line, giving all of the runners shouts of encouragement to push through that final mile. We know many of the runners’ family and friends will be there encouraging them on the day. If you are planning to be there, please look out for our team in their DS43 T-Shirts and cheer them on – we know they will appreciate it. We wish all the participants a safe, enjoyable and memorable day. Good luck everyone!
