Something for everyone at Walney Fun Run!

There was something for everyone at the recent Walney Fun Run in Barrow, Cumbria, where a new one mile disability race overlooked by local Paralympic hero Dean Miller took centre stage!

It was the third annual running of the event held by Walney Wind Cheetahs who showed that they have not rested on their laurels after winning last year’s Group of the Year in the Run England Awards.

Barrow mayor, Councillor Colin Thomson, started the proceedings and Paralympian Dean Miller – who competed in the 1500m at London 2012 – was guest of honour, showing his support for all the competitors, especially those taking part in a one mile disability race.

Dean said: “It’s great that the Wind Cheetahs are really getting people involved and it’s nice to see so many people from my local area enthusiastic about the sport that means so much to me.

“The introduction of the disability mile event this year, on the year anniversary of the Paralympics was also great to get disabled kids involved in sport and keeping fit, something I'm also passionate about.

“I'm proud of what the guys are doing in Walney and how much running is thriving over there!”

There was a 5K on offer for the youngsters who included the new Cheetah Cubs (pictured, right with their medals), who form the group’s junior section, and 10K for adults. Thanks to the hard work of the organisers everyone was catered for!

Walney Wind Cheetah’s Ian Jones, who helped introduce the disability mile, said: “The Walney Wind Cheetahs were honoured to win the Running Group Awards in 2012. We wanted to prove we deserved them and have worked really hard in 2013.

“We have done a lot of work providing opportunities for children and young adults with disabilities. The development of our WWC Cubs section was also a new and rewarding project.”

The Wind Cheetahs - who market themselves with a Facebook page, website, newsletter and email list - managed to get coverage of the event in their local press and on regional TV - well done to all involved!

Find out more about the Walney Wind Cheetahs by checking out their website at walneywindcheetahs.org.uk or searching for them on our group finder map at runengland.org/groups.