Macmillan Cancer Support were thrilled to be this years chosen charity for the Asics Wilmslow Half Marathon which took place on Sunday 27 March.
Macmillan had over 300 runners taking part who proudly wore the Macmillan green vests and the charity expects to receive over £40,000 in sponsorship which will go to providing medical, emotional, practical and financial support to people affected by cancer.
Two of the Macmillan runners, husband and wife Julian and Nikki Barlow from Handforth Dean, shared their experience of taking part.
"We were inspired to run the Wilmslow half marathon as part of our fund raising activities for Macmillan Cancer Support. Until January of this year neither of us had run more than a couple of miles but within a few weeks and with a bit of determination we were running 20 miles a week.
"Taking part in the half marathon was a really fantastic experience, there were over 300 people running for Team Macmillan and it was great to be a part of something that proved to be a personal challenge whilst raising money for a truly worthwhile cause. On race day we both felt a mixture of nervousness and excitement as we approached the starting line, however all nerves were forgotten once we started the race and began tackling the long challenge ahead. It was spectacular to look ahead and see runners stretching out as far as the eye could see and the energy and atmosphere of the crowd really got our adrenalin pumping.
"During the latter stages of the race the run became really tough with every muscle protesting at the effort required. However, the crowds of Macmillan supporters were absolutely brilliant and were it not for their cheers and words of encouragement, I'm not sure we'd have crossed the finish line!
We've had a fantastic time raising money for Macmillan and taking on a challenge that neither of us felt was possible only a few months ago!
Julian and Nikki Barlow volunteer for Macmillan as part of the Wilmslow Fundraising Group, their future fund raising activities include a Macmillan Charity ball, which is planned for the 8th July, and a dog show and clay pigeon shoot - dates for which are yet to be announced.
Anyone wishing to know more about the Macmillan events in the Wilmslow and Handforth area this year can contact either Julian or Nikki on 01625 252668.
