We’re inviting you to join us in Swansea on Saturday, 25 June where we aim to have the biggest ever team of Type 1 runners to complete a half marathon.
Whether you’re a keen runner, jogger or walker you will be very welcome in Team Diabetes UK. By assembling the biggest team of runners with Type 1 diabetes for this half marathon we not only aim to set a world record but also to show that people living with the condition can achieve anything they set their minds to.
How do I get involved?
Sign up today on theSwansea Half Marathon websiteand then let us know as soon as you have a confirmed plae byemailing us at wales@diabetes.org.uk. We can then make sure that you’re registered as a runner with Team Diabetes UK and will send you a running vest, training advce and fundraising information by post.
What if I don’t have Type 1?
We want as many people as possible to run, walk or even cheer on from the sidelines. Whether you have Type 1 or have been affected by diabetes in some other way we would still love you to be a part of Team Diabetes UK. Just let us know when you’ve signed up that you would like to be a part of the team and that you don’t have the condition.
Why set a world record?
The idea to set a world record was originally brought to us by Paul Coker who is celebrating his 40anniversary of living with Type 1 diabetes by completing 40 half marathons across the globe. (To find out more about him and his quest, go to the 1bloodydrop website). The Swansea Half Marathon will mark Paul’s final run, something he would love to share with others living with the condition.
Paul is passionate about raising as much awareness as possible of Type 1 diabetes, particularly of the dangers of late diagnosis. Paul says that as he was growing up with diabetes people were always telling him that his diabetes would stop him from doing things and over the years he has turned this around by demonstrating that anything is possible with the right attitude.
He said: “By the time I get to my final race I will have run 520 miles in total so it will feel like a huge achievement. I’m looking forward to crossing the final finishing line at the Swansea Half Marathon this June because it will be a huge thank you to all of the people who have supported me throughout my journey with diabetes during the last 40 years.
“I want others living with Type 1 diabetes to join me on my last run as we’re aiming to get the largest team of runners with Type 1 diabetes together for the event, to show how important it is to raise awareness of the condition and also show that you can achieve anything you set your mind to with the right preparation and support.”
How will Diabetes UK use the money that is being raised?
All money raised as part of this challenge will be spent on raising awareness of the symptoms of Type 1 diabetes and the dangers of late diagnosis.
For more information on exercise and Type 1 visit our page onsports nutrition and exerciseor for more information contact us byemail us at wales@diabetes.org.uk or give us a call on 029 2066 8276.
