READING Half Marathon saw thousands of participants taking part in a 13.1-mile run on Sunday, April 14.
Among them was Dan Llewellyn, who along with friend James, took on the event to raise money for Against Breast Cancer following his mum Gail’s diagnosis late last year.
Gail said at the Select Car Leasing Stadium: “Our son Dan is running today as I was diagnosed with breast cancer back in November, and he’s raised over £2,000.
“I’ve been really choked up: it’s the first one he’s ever done, and he’s been training so hard as he’s not a natural runner.
“I think when I see him cross the line, I’m going to cry because it’s just so emotional.”
She added: “There’s a real charge– so many people doing such a nice thing for charity, and the sun has even stayed out for us for once.
“Everyone has been cheering everybody else on, and that’s what it’s all about.”
He was running with a friend, James, who helped him complete the event in just over two hours.
Also among the runners was Ryan Ward, also from Reading, who was running to raise money for the Meningitis Research Foundation.
Ryan’s brother, Graham, died at the age of 20 after contracting a rare form of meningitis in 2019.
He said after the event: “It’s nice to have so much support, family and friends coming down to cheer everyone on.
“There are so many thousands of people running the half today, a great turnout, and the weather’s been nice.
“But such a good day, great racing conditions– I even had time to stop for a quick beer on mile eight.”
Another of the runners was Alec, a 22-year-old from Reading, who said: “The route is tough, and the hills really catch you out, but it’s a good half.
“I’m happy with my time, and my wife says I’ve hit under 1 hour 40, so I’m ready for a beer.”
Entries for next year’s Reading Half Marathon are now open via: readinghalfmarathon.com
