It's not too late to join the field for this year's Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events. There are six events to choose from – including the traditional 26 mile Carver Wolverhampton Marathon, the Carver Half Marathon over 13 miles, the Banks’s 10k Run and the Cousins 20k Cycle Event. People can also take part in the Callprint Walk in the Park while younger people can enjoy the Children’s Mini Marathon.
They take place on Sunday 4 September, 2016, starting and finishing in Wolverhampton’s West Park, and all proceeds go to local charities.
Chair Mary Harding said: “This year’s Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events are set to be the biggest and best yet, with more entries at this stage than any other year.
“They appeal to so many different people, with something for everyone, whether you are young or old, sporty or not. As well as running, you can also hop on your bike or enjoy a walk around West Park.”
Among those taking part will be the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing and super slimmer Councillor Paul Sweet, who tackled the half-marathon in 2015 after shedding more than six stone in just over a year in response to the city’s Call to Action over obesity.
This time he is turning his attention to the 20k cycle event and said: “I pinch myself sometimes at the amazing weight loss I've had and I hope my story has inspired others.
"One of the effects of the weight loss has meant I recently had surgery to remove excess skin. Coming back from that, I found it difficult not being able to run, so I have turned to cycling to help rebuild my strength and stamina.
“I am really looking forward to the 20k cycle challenge, particularly as I will be completing it with Director of Public Health Ros Jervis and Head of Healthier Place Richard Welch, who supported me on the half-marathon last year.
“Having to swap my running shoes for my bike has made me realise there is always something else you can do – whether it's cycling, walking, swimming or anything else. It's always good to mix it up a little bit too.
“My message to others is not to focus on what you can't do, but look toward what you can do and embrace it, enjoy it, and the positive changes in your health will surely follow.”
All proceeds from the Carver Wolverhampton Marathon Events go to local charities including Compton Hospice, Wolverhampton Rheumatology Support Group, The Haven Wolverhampton and the Mayor of Wolverhampton’s chosen charities, which include the MS Therapy Centre in Tettenhall, Wolverhampton Samaritans and Help For Heroes.
Mary added: “Just by entering any of the events you will be helping to raise money for these charities.”
Entries can be made online at www.carverwolverhamptonmarathonevents.co.uk or in person at Carvers Building Supplies until Friday 2 September, with late entries accepted at West Park on Saturday 3 September from 9.30am to 5pm. Please note that entries cannot be accepted on the day of the events.
