Husband and wife duo Ryan and Helena Smith are going for the triple this October.
Not only are they joining Team Acorns for the Great Birmingham Run Half Marathon, the couple are also hoping to smash their personal best – all while raising as much money as possible.
It’s not their first half marathon. Ryan and Helena took home medals in 2018. This time they’re hoping the complete the challenge in less than two hours.
Ryan said: “We’re pretty seasoned runners. We’ve done the Birmingham Half Marathon, and the Balsall Common 10k. I’ve done a couple of Wolf Runs and Helena is a gym addict. But we’re ready. We’re determined this time to go under two hours, that’s our target.”
Joining Team Acorns was an easy choice for the Solihull couple, who are parents to three children. Ryan works for the charity and has seen for himself how funds raised help children and families.
He explained: “It’s easy to be inspired by what Acorns do. Having worked for the charity I’ve seen the difference the money we raise makes and how it changes and supports people’s lives. I’ve been to Acorns hospices and I came out feeling so uplifted. It’s such an inspiring charity.”
And the couple have this advice for would-be fundraisers looking to help Acorns continue its work caring for children and families.
“The Great Birmingham Run is a really exciting event – the atmosphere is electric. You can really share in the camaraderie and the support is fantastic.
“So, if you’re thinking about signing up, I’d say without a doubt do it. Anyone can do it. You don’t have to be an ultra athlete, you just have to be determined and clear minded about what you want to achieve. Think about who or what you’re raising money for and be inspired by that. If you focus on that at the start, you will get there at the end – I promise you.”
We have FREE charity places in the Great Birmingham Run when you join Team Acorns.
