A 70-year-old fitness fanatic will run one of Sunderland’s biggest races in the city centre this month.
Bill Wright, who is a keen runner and yoga fanatic, is proving that age is just a number when it comes to fitness.
The elderly runner, who has no limits when it comes to fitness, has completed various fitness activities in the past year.
He said: “A year gone January I started in Mowbray Park doing the 2k run. I did that for a couple of months and then I thought I would go for the 5K.”
The longest race that Bill has ran is 5K and he is now moving onto the 10k Sunderland Siglion run which takes place on Sunday May 13 in Keel Square, Sunderland.
The day consists of various activities including the 3K Family Fun Run and the 10K Siglion.
Bill said: “I think it’s important for the town as they get runners from all around. For me, it’s just another event because I do other things as well as running. I play badminton, do yoga and use the gym. It’s something different to do.”
The fitness fan, who takes pride in his running, trains every Sunday morning to prepare himself for the run, and runs on the treadmill in the gym.
The race was founded by World Champion athlete Steve Cram, who said: “Bill’s story helps to demonstrate that it’s realistic for people of almost any age to take on the challenge of a 10K run. With the right attitude and preparation, completing a 10K is achievable for even novice runners.
Bill was encouraged by his experience in the Sunderland BIG 3K last year to tackle the longer distance and now I am sure that he will help to inspire others who just need a bit of a nudge to take up running as part of a more active lifestyle.
Good luck to Bill – pace yourself, soak up the atmosphere and have a great morning with thousands of others on the streets of Sunderland.”
The 10K run starts at 10am, followed by the half marathon starting at 10:25am. You can run for charity or just for fun.
Visit the website www.sunderlandcity10k.com to find out more about the event.