After many years of watching the GNR half marathon on TV from the comfort of my sofa, last year I decided to participate in the 2024 event and was grateful to secure a charity entry place through CRY.
Scott’s memorial fund was set up in April 2021 and with extremely generous support from family & friends, sufficient funds were raised enabling CRY to hold 3 events in Renfrewshire in 2023, where a total of 275 young people aged 14-35 received cardiac screening. As so much had already been given, I was hesitant about doing another fundraiser. I created my Just Giving page and asked the same family & friends for small donations in support of my half marathon; those amazing people donated an outstanding total of £1300.
No going back now, I had to start training! On Sunday 31st March I ran a very slow 3 miles and wondered how I’d ever be able to run 13.1 miles but after many weeks of running the Ayrshire Coastal Path in all weathers, the big day arrived.
Sunday 8th September in Newcastle looked very like most “summer” 2024 days in Largs, it was pouring with rain (whilst the sky was blue & the sun was shining in Largs!). The weather in Newcastle in no way dampened my spirits nor of the great masses of other runners, many supporting charities also close to their hearts. The day wasn’t just about the runners though, the supporting crowds were amazing; there wasn’t a crowd cheering free area anywhere along the 13.1 miles between Newcastle & South Shields.
I’ll finish with my heartfelt thanks to the following;
My wonderful family, friends & neighbours for not only their generous donations to my fundraiser but also their personal messages of support & encouragement, during my training and on the day.
Robert for his unwavering support & patience during my training, especially after the long Sunday runs in the wind & rain, when I was at times a tad grumpy😊️
Robert & Euan for being there with me on the run weekend; my half marathon was a walk in the park compared to the crowds & stress they endured trying to navigate the route from the start to finish line, via the extremely overcrowded metro system.
The whole inspiring team at Cardiac Risk in the Young for everything they do!!
With love to each & every one of you💓
Christine x
