Community Foundation runners gear up for GNR
It is now less than three weeks until over 50,000 people take to the streets of the North East for the world’s greatest half marathon, the Great North Run.
Four of those participants will be running to raise funds for the Falcons Community Foundation and one of those runners, Simon Ashby, has been updating the club on his training progress so far.
Simon, who set himself a target to complete five half marathons during 2014, already has three races under his belt so far this year. He said: “I feel ready for the Great North Run. My last half marathon was in July so after taking a week out to recuperate I’ve been doing plenty of training both in the gym and outdoors. I’m running the best times this year and hope to achieve a personal best at the Great North Run.”
Originally from the North East and now living in Yorkshire, Simon chose to run for the Falcons Community Foundation after reading about the foundation on the Falcons club website.
“As I child I relied heavily on our local community centre for entertainment during the school holidays and am a great believer in social inclusion to help develop a stronger community and develop social skills within the younger generation.
“Keeping kids entertained through sport can only benefit their health and overall wellbeing, as well as keeping them out of mischief! And with that in mind I felt I could raise much needed funds for the Falcons Community Foundation by signing up for the run.”
Fundraising has been steady so far, with Simon raising over £350 already through sponsorships as well as a homemade cake sale arranged by his wife, daughter and mother-in-law.
The 2014 Great North Run is a particular special occasion because it will involve the finish of the one millionth Great North Runner.
