Man completes marathon for family friend

Oliver Wise took part in the ‘Rock n Roll’ marathon last Sunday (November 13) for his family friend, Harry Ragless.

Harry was born with spina bifida and hydrocephalus inspiring Oliver to run his first ever marathon.

Oliver was already in Las Vegas visiting friends when he decided to sign up to the marathon.

He said: “As a personal trainer I thought that my relatively decent existing fitness level would carry me through the marathon without any training for it.

“Oh was I wrong. The first eight miles went very smooth, I had a good buzz running with others and the supporters standing on the strip kept me going with encouragement.

“I felt like giving up so many times but knowing I had raised money kept me going. Crossing the finishing line was euphoria filled with relief. It took me three days to recover.”

Oliver raised money for Sasbah – a charity that provides opportunities for families like Harry’s to meet up and share experiences.

Harry’s Mum Selina added: “It makes such a difference being with people who know what you’re going through.

“You can talk about things most people just wouldn’t understand and it’s good to be there for each other, so no-one feels alone.”

Anyone wishing to support Ollie’s challenge can visit his Just Giving page at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Oliver-Wise.

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