Chris Salmon, a Stock & Systems Analyst at Wincanton’s National Distribution Centre for Screwfix, recently completed an incredible challenge by running 13 half-marathons in 13 weeks for their Charity of the Year STING – Staffordshire’s Therapeutic Independent Neurological Group, based at the Whitebridge Industrial Park in Stone. Chris is hoping to raise £5000 for the charity.
After already having completed a series of half-marathons across the country – from London to Llanelli, Stafford to Silverstone – Chris’s three final events were:
Lichfield Half Marathon – Sunday 1st May
At Lichfield, Chris was accompanied by his girlfriend Shaney Maull, who was attempting her very first half-marathon. Early sunshine gave the impression running conditions would be good. However, after a promising start, Chris encountered weather he’s started to become used to on his runs, as the clouds came across, followed by expected wind and rain!
Chris bravely battled on, like the trouper he is, finishing in an impressive 1 hour 47 minutes – 289th out of 903 finishers. Shaney was delighted to come in shortly afterwards in 1 hour 56 minutes. Chris has been extremely consistent throughout the course of his first 11 half-marathons, recording times between 1.39 and 1.48 despite adverse weather and course conditions – a testament to his preparation, fitness and determination.
Leeds Half Marathon – Sunday 8th May
With 11 half-marathons under his belt in the previous 11 weeks, Chris was understandably feeling the effects of almost 150 running miles behind him, and a large field of runners was not the ideal scenario to take on the Leeds Half Marathon. Nevertheless, Chris dug into his reserves of energy to compete here, and the excellent atmosphere helped him cross the line in a worthy time of 1 hour 50 minutes. The impressive finishers’ medal was deserved reward for this effort.
Chester Half Marathon – Sunday 15th May
A beautiful sunny weekend was just what Chris was hoping for, in order to complete his amazing ‘STING’s Lucky 13’ challenge, and that’s just what he was greeted with as he lined up with around 6,500 other runners at Chester Racecourse to set off through the city’s ancient streets.
Wonderfully enthusiastic crowds cheered on the runners from the start, and an equally wonderful atmosphere followed the runners all along the course. The crowds and a host of bands and other entertainment lifted their spirits as well as their pace, along the bright sunny route through Chester. The run finished in the city centre, and the runners were greeted enthusiastically by further large crowds and the welcome voice of the event announcers singling out many individuals.
Having successfully completed his ‘STING’s Lucky 13’ challenge, Chris is now enjoying a well-deserved rest and putting his feet up, metaphorically speaking of course! No doubt he will shortly be planning further mind-boggling, energy-sapping challenges! An adrenaline junkie like Chris will surely not be content to play chess or solve crosswords for the rest of his life – so watch out for news of his next campaign!
[box type=”info” ]Chris’s amazing feat (and feet!) have brought him very close to his target of raising £5000 for STING, though anyone is still welcome to add to this sponsorship total by visiting localgiving.com to pledge an amount on his ‘STING’s Lucky 13’ link. Alternatively, text ‘HALF13 £10‘ to 70070 to donate.
For further details of Chris’s ambitious challenge, or to find more information about STING’s work in the community, contact Peter Marenghi on 07736 522474 or via email – petermarenghi@hotmail.co.uk [/box]
