22 November 2009

Telegraph seek runners for London Marathon to help Brain and Spine Foundation


Telegraph seek runners for London Marathon to help Brain and Spine Foundation

The Daily Telegraph is looking for members of the public to push themselves to the limit by joining its London Marathon team to raise money for the Brain and Spine Foundation.

Marathon

There have been many memorable, emotional days since the team was launched in 1999 and, to date, successive Telegraph/Brain and Spine Foundation teams have raised more than £1.1 million for the foundation.

In 2003, Michael Watson, as captain of the team, completed the slowest London marathon on record, going into a seventh day. As the former boxer – who suffered a horrific brain injury in 1991 – came down The Mall with the finish line in sight, his marathon feat captured the hearts of the nation.

Previous non-running team captains include Olympic kayak gold medallist Tim Brabants, Ade Adepitan – the television presenter and Paralympic wheelchair basketball medallist – and boxing promoter Frank Warren. Other celebrity leaders include Kirsty Gallacher, Andrew Castle, Des Lynam and Gabby Logan.

Are you feeling inspired to apply to become a member of Team Telegraph in the Virgin London Marathon on April 25, 2010?

We have 15 places in the marathon for our readers. All that is asked in return is that you devote your energies equally to the race and to raising money for the Brain and Spine Foundation. The deadline for entries is Friday, Dec 4.

Gary Lewin, the Arsenal and England physiotherapist, will host an evening of practical advice for our runners on Jan 14, when the team will also meet the non-running team captain, who will be announced before Christmas. The team will be given extra support from experts on nutrition, physical training and marathon fitness.

We are not necessarily looking for experienced marathon runners or record-breakers.

We are looking for runners young and old, of all abilities, but with one thing in common – that you have the team spirit and drive to raise much-needed funds for the charity.

Peter Hamlyn, the consultant neurosurgeon who formed the Brain and Spine Foundation in 1992 and who helped save Watson's life, explained that the money raised is spent on research and funds an invaluable 24-hour telephone helpline.

"One million people suffering from head injuries will go to hospital this year and 11 per cent of hospital beds will be occupied by stroke victims," he said. "Sadly, 95 per cent of people admitted to hospital will never see a neurosurgeon.

"The helpline has become a vital source of support for those in need of advice and reassurance. We are also able to use the money raised to do further research and educate medical staff about brain and spinal injuries, one quarter of which are misdiagnosed by frontline doctors."

Come and run with us, and in doing so help to save and change lives.

Team members will receive a Brain and Spine Foundation vest and will get to enjoy a post-race reception with friends, family and fellow runners near Trafalgar Square, where refreshments and a post-marathon massage will be available.

As for the 2010 team, we are expecting up to 100 runners. To apply for one of our guaranteed entry charity places, please send a covering letter, explaining in 100 words why you would like to join our team.

The deadline for entries is Friday, Dec 4. Alternatively, if you have your own place in the London Marathon ballot, we would still be delighted to have you in our team.

  • Please contact Sarah Himelfield for a welcome pack on 0207 793 5913 or sarah.himelfield@brainandspine.org.uk or write to Sarah Himelfield, events fundraiser, Brain and Spine Foundation, 3.36 Canterbury Court, Kennington Park, 1-3 Brixton Road, London SW9 6DE.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/athletics/6600647/Telegraph-seek-runners-for-London-Marathon-to-help-Brain-and-Spine-Foundation.html

No comments: