Pensioner from Sheffield vows to complete 10k Run in the Park for 8th time

7th April 2016

A 76 year old pensioner from Sheffield has signed up to complete a 10k race in July for the 8th year in a row to support his local cancer hospital.

Jack Cowlishaw, from Southey Green, Sheffield who is ranked number 6 in his age group for all 10k runs across the UK, will once again pull his running shoes on on the 10th July and take part in the popular Run in the Park event to raise funds for Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity. Run in the Park welcomes families, friends and colleagues to don their running vests in support of the cancer charity and is well attended by hospital staff, fundraisers and patients alike. Now into its eighth year, the cancer charity is encouraging participants of all ages and abilities to take on either the 3k fun run or 10k race on the 10th July through Graves Park as part of this popular event. Former steelworker Jack is 1 of only 2 runners who have taken part in the event every year since it started back in 2008 and is keen to take part in the run once again whilst supporting the vital work of Weston Park Hospital. Weston Park Hospital is one of only a handful of specialist cancer hospitals in England and treats patients from all over South Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire and North Derbyshire a population of almost 1.8million people. Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity is the only dedicated charity for the hospital and exists to support the world-class cancer research and to improve the treatment and care for people living with cancer. Jack, who attends the gym four times a week and regularly completes half and full marathons across the country, has vowed to continue running as long as he is able and says he won't let age stand in his way. -I started running as a hobby at the age of 45 and soon found myself competing in local races and slowly but surely I began appearing on the winner boards. Said Jack -Run in the Park is a special race for me as I've known so many people affected by cancer who have needed the services of Weston Park Hospital. If people like me, who are fit and healthy, can run for those who are perhaps not so able then it's a brilliant way to raise money for this fantastic cause. -Even though I run regularly I still enjoy the challenge of the race and the atmosphere on the day is absolutely brilliant- I'm proud to be part of it. As well as taking part in Run in the Park every year, generous Jack also supports the cancer charity by giving a monthly donation by direct debit. And with many miles left in him yet, Jack continues to sign up for races and runs, raising money for many local charities in the process. He continued, -Not only do I enjoy running, but I have seen an unbelievable improvement in my physical and mental health since taking it up as a hobby. -I am in total awe of those receiving cancer treatment as well as those who have survived cancer who choose to take part in Run in the Park and it's an honour to run alongside such strong people on the day. -The event really is open to everyone and I'd encourage anyone looking for a great day out as well as a personal or group challenge to join me on the 10th July at Graves Park. Run in the Park, which last year saw over 900 people attend, has raised over an incredible £300,000 since it first began 8 years ago and each year attracts more runners wanting to raise money to support the vital work of Weston Park Hospital. The cancer charity needs to raise over £1.9 million this year to enable the funding of committed and new projects that will keep patients at the forefront of cancer treatment. Lucy King, Community Fundraiser for the cancer charity said, -Since 2008 Run in the Park has grown in popularity and size and this year we are hoping that more people than ever before will join us on the day. -With an option of a 3k fun run or 10k race, the day offers something for everyone as well as entertainment to keep spectators occupied from the side-lines. -Jack is a true inspiration and we hope his determination encourages runners of any age to sign up for the event and raise money so that the cancer charity can continue investing in life-saving projects for cancer patients. To sign up for Run in the Park and take on the 3k fun run or 10k race at Graves Park visit www.runinthepark.org.uk