A 16-year-old from West Bridgford has run a marathon during lockdown to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK.
Henry, who studies at Rushcliffe School Sixth Form, is a competitive swimmer. But since the pandemic began, swimming pools have been mostly closed so Henry took to running. So far he has raised £500 for the charity, with the total still rising.
Henry said, “Before COVID-19, I swam competitively for Nottingham Leander Swimming Club, however due to ongoing pool closures I had to find an alternative source of fitness. So, you guessed it, I started running.
“When this latest lockdown was announced I decided I fancied a challenge, so I set my eyes on completing a marathon for charity. Completing my marathon did come with its challenges, including the flooding of the River Trent, which forced me to change my route at short notice.”
“I chose Prostate Cancer UK because I have always felt that men’s cancer and the charities that support the cause are not widely promoted. By doing my marathon I aimed to raise not only money for this charity, but awareness about prostate cancer as well.
“I completed 26.5 miles in 3:35:59, and [so far] we have raised almost £500 for Prostate Cancer UK.
“I hope it won’t be long until I am back in the pool with my swimming club, but for now, I’d say I am proud of my achievement and I would say that keeping fit is a great way to stay positive during these unprecedented times.”