We’ve heard some very inspiring stories from people who are doing the Great North Run this year, and one of them is from Gareth Stones.
Gareth lives in Gateshead and will be taking on the biggest half marathon in the UK as a guide runner with his friend David Walton.
The two met six years ago, and at the time David had around 50% of his vision, but his condition is degenerative and now he only has around 11%.
During a catch-up at Christmas, David mentioned that he regretted not doing the Great North Run, so Gareth suggested applying for the general ballot and they were lucky enough to get places.
Gareth said: ” I’ve done it several times but not for 10 years, and never as a guide runner. But I said let’s apply for the general ballot and see what happens.
“It’s been a huge learning curve for both of us but training is going well and David has completed three 10K’s as part of his training as well as losing over three stone in weight.
David is running for the Guide Dogs as he has come to accept that he may one day need a guide dog of his own.
The sentiment behind me running for GNAAS is much the same in that I or any of us may one day need our lives saving by the team at GNAAS.”
You can sponsor Gareth here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gareth-stones
Next year is the 40th anniversary of the very first Great North Run, and we’d love to have you as part of #TeamGNAAS!
Whether you get a team together or you take on the challenge yourself, we will support your marathon efforts with fundraising and training tips, as well as a free technical running top – and the loudest cheers on the route!
If 2020 is your year, join our waiting list and we’ll email you as soon as our places for the Great North Run 2020 become available – you won’t have to wait long!
Places are sold on a first come, first served basis, so you’ll have to be quick!
| Join the waiting list |
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