Marathon runner achieves big ambition
Hi. My name’s Scott and I’m a support worker. I’m also a keen athlete. Over the past few months, I’ve been helping Rhys, a young man I support, to prepare for the challenge of a lifetime.
On Sunday 19 June, Rhys took part in the Plymouth Half Marathon, also known as the Ocean City Half Marathon. Just five days earlier, we had completed his final training run - an 11-mile run – where unfortunately, we had to walk half of it, as Rhys’ foot was causing him pain.
The big day arrives
On the morning of the big event, I picked Rhys up at 7.00am and we arrived on the seafront promenade at 7.30am. We posed for a team photo with my running team, which Rhys is now a member of, and we made our way to the start line at 8am.
Fifteen minutes later, a loud horn sounded and alongside thousands of other runners, we set off! The weather was good; cool but not cold, no sun and no rain. Pretty much perfect running conditions.
Sheer excitement
Rhys was excited and a little nervous, but also proud to be taking part and privileged to have had the backing from Brandon. We started off a bit too fast the first two miles, but that was down to sheer excitement!
We settled and talked throughout. Counting the miles down and interacting with people along the way. High-fiving supporters, reassuring fellow runners that were struggling, and thanking the volunteers who gave up their time to make the event possible. Every time someone shouted Rhys' name, he cheered and waved. He is an absolute celebrity!
Fundraising target
With a generous last surge of sponsors, Rhys smashed his £200 target and has so far raised an incredible £365 for Epilepsy Action.
It was really nice to have team leader Sammy, and locality manager Nikki, there in support. They were absolutely deafening on the home stretch to the finish line.
Big achievement
Rhys has proved that all the hard work and pain, was worth it. He has achieved his ambition! He completed the race in 2 hours, 22 minutes and 51 seconds. A really solid effort and one Rhys can be very proud of.
Expressing his gratitude and explaining his future plans, Rhys has a message for his supporters:
"Thank you to everyone that has supported, sponsored, and wished me well.
“I am blown away from this experience, it’s been amazing. Next year, I want to help others train and complete my hometown half marathon and share the amazing feeling I have felt.”
Scott Allen
Support Worker
Could you help someone to achieve their ambition?
Being a support worker isn’t always what you imagine it to be. The role includes a focus on helping people to realise their dreams and ambitions. Everyone has different aspirations, so you could be doing things you never expected.
If you like variety and thrive in an environment where you support people to do things that mean a lot to them, being a support worker could be the ideal role for you.
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