Husband and wife, David and Alice, are an assisted running duo who have completed various 10K challenges across the UK in recent years. The pair regularly attend their local Park Run and other races to train and advocate for inclusion in sports, whilst raising awareness for MND (Motor Neurone Disease) a rare neurological disorder that causes muscle weakness. This year they will be taking on the ABP Southampton 10K alongside our lead local Charity Partner, Southampton Hospitals Charity.
To provide a glimpse into life as an assisted running duo, Alice shares with us the couples experience so far, including their obstacles and victories along the way. As an event nearing its 10th anniversary, we are dedicated to prioritising inclusion for runners of all abilities, connecting with our audience, and continuing to make meaningful progress. David and Alice’s story is just one example of many cases that resemble the best of running culture and how far the sport can be taken from minor to major set backs.
Hear what Alice has to say about participating in 10K challenges as an assisted running duo:
- What inspired the two of you to team up and compete in races?
"As local Southampton residents, we have both taken part in the ABP Southampton events a few times now - I have completed the half marathon 3 times and David has completed the 10k, half and full marathon twice! Plus, we marshalled the course in 2022. Unfortunately, David was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in July 2023 and is no longer able to run. We wanted to keep him as involved as possible with a sport that he loves so we purchased a specialised running wheelchair and he now competes in events as an assisted runner."
- How do you prepare and train together for events like this 10K?
"We are avid park runners so we go most weeks, and I can then practise pushing him up the inclines on Southampton common. We have also taken part in a few other 10k races so are used to the distance. I also try and lift my weights when I remember as I need a lot of upper body strength to push David and the wheelchair!"
- What’s the most rewarding part of racing as a wheelchair-pushing duo?
"We have been able to raise awareness of both motor neurone disease and the need for inclusion in races for runners of all abilities. Seeing us as a wheelchair duo will hopefully inspire people to do the same!"
- What’s your strategy for staying motivated and in sync on race day?
"David is a great motivator, not just to me but all the runners. He is always clapping and cheering me and the people around us. We also receive such great support, both from the crowd and from the other runners around us. They will always give encouragement , especially if they can see I am working hard!"
- Do you have any memorable or favourite moments from previous races?
"We ran the Southampton half marathon together in 2022, along with David's daughter, Anna. This was her first ever half marathon and unbeknown to us, David's last ever half marathon. The three of us crossed the line together – it was a great feeling as we were just so proud of all Anna had achieved. Now David has a life-limiting illness, every time we cross a finish line together is special to us."
- What message do you hope to share through your participation in these events?
"Runners come in all shapes and sizes and all abilities. Being disabled should never be a barrier to inclusion in sports."
David and Alice’s story is a testament to the strength of community and the impact of inclusivity in sport. Their participation as an assisted running duo not only raises awareness for Motor Neurone Disease but also challenges perceptions about accessibility in athletics. As they take on the ABP Southampton 10K, their story encourages us all to celebrate diversity in running and work toward making events accessible for all.
Join us in supporting David and Alice on race day on Sunday April 6th.
OR
Sign up to run for charity with Southampton Hospitals Charity alongside an incredible batch of change-makers. Click HERE for more info.
If you'd like to share your story please email us via: events@reesleisure.co.uk
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