THE wet weather over the weekend couldn’t dampen the spirits of a Woodley woman as she completed the Great South Run for charity.
Jane McCarthy ran the 10-mile course in Portsmouth on Sunday to raise money for the Catholic international development agency, CAFOD.
After starting parkrun a few years ago, Jane got into the habit of running weekly and having enjoyed a couple of 10km races, she decided to sign up for a more testing race.
Having attended a CAFOD supporters meeting, Jane learned about how others had helped to raise funds, and she decided to combine her passion for running with her desire to raise money.
Despite some pre-race nerves, Jane said the race went really well.
She said: “We were all a little worried about what the weather was going to throw at us as the previous day’s events were cancelled due to poor weather.
“Apart from being a little windy it stayed dry, the sun came out and everyone was determined to enjoy a day they’d been working towards for a while.
“The event was really well organised and there was live music around the course that raised the spirits just when you were starting to flag, giving a much-needed boost of energy! It was a great day and I would recommend it to anyone to have a go – there were so many inspiring people there who had personal reasons for taking part such as in memory of a loved one or for a cause they believe in.”
The money raised by Jane will be used by CAFOD to help those living in extreme poverty to reach their full potential, regardless of religion or culture, by equipping them with the skills to live with dignity, support their families and give something back to their communities.
CAFOD representative in Reading, Jo Lewry, said: “It’s wonderful that Jane decided to run the Great South Run for CAFOD.
“We’re really glad to hear that the race went well and hope that she inspires others to have a go!”
To sponsor Jane visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/janemccarthy77
