A Harrogate teenager is striding into the final week of a month-long challenge to raise money for a charity close to his heart.
Callum Handley, 13, is hoping to run 100km during April in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
As a keen junior footballer and triathlete, Callum is used to covering a fair distance, but the challenge is proving no small feat as he’s had to complete five 5k runs every week.
He has already run more than 75km and is now hoping for a final show of support to help him on his way to the finishing line.
Callum’s mum Claire said:
Every bit of sponsorship gives him that little extra boost to spur him onwards, and we’re so grateful for the support he’s received so far.
She said Callum had come up with the idea of the challenge himself, adding: “He said to me he would like to do it in memory of a close family friend who we lost to MND about two years ago. It’s such a lovely gesture and I’m so proud of him.
Callum has been taking part in triathlons since he was 10, and is a member of the Harrogate Tri Club. He also plays football with the Beckwithshaw Saints, where his dad Simon is a coach. To help boost Callum’s fundraising total, the club is auctioning an Everton football shirt worn by Louis Saha, which has been donated by one of the coaches.
Callum is also being supported by his teachers and fellow students at Rossett School, where he is in Year 8.
Headteacher Helen Woodcock said:
We are really proud of Callum taking on this challenge in response to his personal knowledge of the impact of this devastating condition. We wish him lots of luck in reaching his target.
To sponsor Callum, please visit his JustGiving page at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/callum-handley
