AN energetic Redditch man has raised almost £800 for charity running a race more than double the length he had trained for.
Gary Carter from Winyates raised £780 for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) completing the Great North Run on September 11, although he admits he was not entirely prepared.
He said: “I’m not much of a runner really, but I had done a couple of 5Ks, so I thought I would try and push myself by signing up for a 10K.
“What I didn’t realise was that I had actually signed up for a half marathon.”
Despite taking on a challenge more than double the expected length – just over 21 kilometers – Gary took it all in his stride and was delighted when he came in with a time of just two hours 17 minutes.
“It was all about the charity – that’s what inspired me and kept me going. You’ve got to think about the brave people you are supporting,” said the 53-year-old.
Starting in Newcastle upon Tyne the 13.1-mile route took runners all the way to South Shields, and although it is a tough, hilly course, Gary has decided it is something he would definitely try again.
“After I completed it, I vowed it would be a one-off – but I admit I have already signed up to do it again next year.”
Gary also hopes that others might be inspired by his experience and sign up: “Nothing is out of your reach – I’m just a plumber from Redditch with a slightly dodgy knee, and even I managed it.”
Visithttp://bit.ly/2ctUovv to support Gary and the RNLI
