Success at the Great North Run 2016
Well done to all the Theirworld fundraisers that took to the streets of Newcastle to run 13.1 miles in the Great North Run last weekend. Though injury hampered some of our competitors, for their months of training and fundraising, the Theirworld team are incredibly grateful to Craig Pember, Liam Garside, Robin Cleverly, Mark Hirst, Dominic Hughes, Andrew Tudor and Dave Jowett.
On a beautiful morning last Sunday, thousands of runners took on the world famous half marathon between Newcastle and South Shields. Competitors made their way through the city centre and towards the River Tyne, before crossing the iconic Tyne Bridge, the scene of the customary spectacular display by the Red Arrows overhead. From there runners travelled through Gateshead, urged on by a mass of spectators and various bands, and on to South Shields where at the top of Prince Edward Road the stunning panorama of the sea provided one of the most striking sights along the whole course. With just over a mile to go the runners made their way down the final straight towards the finish line and a well-earned rest.
All of our GNR runners helped Theirworld raise money to help the Jennifer Brown Research Laboratory advance a range of exciting and pioneering new research projects that are making real progress towards resolving some of the life threatening complications that can arise during pregnancy for both mothers and babies. A special mention must go to one of our finishers, Dave Jowett, for whom this edition marks the 10 years since the loss of his son, Thomas, who was born prematurely. Lucas, Dave’s second Son, was also born prematurely in December 2007, but is now a happy and healthy 8 year old boy, a testament to the importance of the care and attention he received during the first 3 months of his life in Calderdale Special Care Baby Unit. This year was the 10th time Dave has participated in the event – a phenomenal achievement.
The Great North Run 2016 was a fantastic event, and we are already looking forward to next year. If you are interested in taking on the challenge for Theirworld in 2017, please email [email protected] for more information. The 2017 Great North Run takes place on 10th September 2017.
Sponsorships are still coming in for the Theirworld team and so far they have raised a fantastic amount – so once again a big, big thank you to our team! The money that they have raised will help us to create a brighter future for every child.