The dad of a Bath Spa university graduate is running the Bath Half Marathon for children and young people’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent, after being a trustee for the good cause for the past five years.
Will Carter, 59, from Newbury, was inspired to take on the challenge after several visits to Bath while his son Alex, 22, was studying English Literature and Media.
Will has been a trustee for CLIC Sargent for five years and is hoping to raise £6,550 for the charity – £500 for every mile of the run on 13 March.
Will said: “I am taking part in the Bath Half Marathon for CLIC Sargent because I’ve seen first-hand what children and young people go through during cancer treatment and I know CLIC Sargent provide a really valued and critical service to them.
“When I speak to a child or young adult I’m bowled over by their spirit. They’re going through this awful experience but they always seem to have an amazing attitude to life.
“It’s those people I’m thinking about when I’m training. On the cold winter mornings, I ask myself: ‘Why am I doing this?’ and then I realise I’m really in no position to complain when I think about what the families we support are going through.
“It’s the least I can do – doing what I can to raise some money for the charity.
“I’ve set myself a high fundraising target to see what I can achieve but I’m quietly hopeful.”
Will has run several half marathons, as well as the London Marathon three times. But this will be his first long-distance race for three years.
Will said: “I’ve run the Bath Half Marathon twice before and I always enjoy it because it’s a beautiful course. It’s a great opportunity to run through the scenic city centre and it’s got a great atmosphere from other runners and, of course, the crowd.”
Will, co-founder of business consultancy, Food Strategy Associates, lives with his wife Laura and their three sons, Alex, Patrick, 20, and Sam, 17, in Newbury.
“This year, I was hoping to get one of my sons to run with me. I haven’t won that battle yet – but maybe next year.”
CLIC Sargent Running Events Fundraising Manager Sarah Manion said: “We’re delighted Will has signed up to take part in the Vitality Bath Half Marathon and we can’t wait to cheer him on to the finish line on the day.
“Running events like this are a great way for people to challenge themselves while making a huge difference to the lives of children and young people with cancer, and their families.
“CLIC Sargent provides support, including social workers, nurses and free accommodation near hospitals to help families whose lives have been turned upside down by cancer.”
You can join Will as part of Team CLIC Sargent, for just £10, by visiting the website www.clicsargent.org.uk or contact Sarah Manion, Running Events Fundraising Manager on 0845 602 4770.
You can follow Team CLIC Sargent on Twitter at @TeamCLICSargent.
