Pair gear up for Ness 10k
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A LOCAL couple have teamed up to take on a 10k challenge in Inverness this autumn to raise funds for a cancer charity.
Jennifer and Graeme Bremner, who live in Ackergill, are training together for the River Ness event which is being staged in the city on September 29 as part of the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon and Festival of Running.
They are running in aid of the event’s official charity, Macmillan Cancer Support, whose current Not Alone campaign aims to ensure all cancer patients and their families receive the necessary support after diagnosis, throughout treatment and beyond.
Supporting Macmillan means a lot to the Bremners. Not only is Jennifer employed by the charity in a development role but the family also received support from its nurses when fisherman Graeme’s late mother Jean was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in February 2010.
Jennifer said: "When my mother-in-law was diagnosed with breast cancer, Macmillan were there for us. Working with Macmillan now, I know how important it is that people continue to support the charity, so that we can continue to support cancer patients and their families every step of the way."
The couple are encouraging runners of all ages and abilities to sign up for one of the five events on offer over the weekend of the race and get friends, family members or colleagues to join them.
Runners can choose from the full marathon, the River Ness 10k and 10k corporate challenge, the 5k fun run or the Wee Nessie for those with little legs.
Anyone deciding to take part will be joining more than 9000 expected participants, with entries for all races now open and early bird rates available at www.lochnessmarathon.com
People considering entering are encouraged to enlist a partner or team so they can support each other throughout the training process and race itself.
Jennifer said: "Running with someone is a great way to stay focused — Graeme and I have been training together, prompting and motivating each other to keep going. People who aren’t sure about going it alone should find someone to run with them and share the experience."
Gemma Hardy, Macmillan’s challenge events programme manager, said: "Cancer is the toughest fight most of us will ever face. And the feelings of loneliness and isolation that so many people experience make it even harder. Now, more than ever, we need people to join our team and get involved. No-one should face cancer alone and with people’s support, no-one will.
"Anyone signing up to join Team Macmillan at this year’s event will receive a free fundraising pack and running vest/T-shirt and lots of support on the day including cheer points around the course and a free post-run massage and refreshments. We’re on hand to give you tips and advice from the experts from the moment you sign up to ensure you don’t face your challenge alone."
Guaranteed places are available for the marathon until July 1 with places available for charity, club and overseas runners until September 9.
