Epilepsy Action 10k attracts record number of runners this year
A record-breaking number of runners have braved strong windy conditions to take part in the Epilepsy Action 10k run today.
In aid of Yeadon-based charity Epilepsy Action, over 1,700 runners followed a 10k route from Bradford’s Centenary Square to Frizinghall and back.
With a course faster and flatter than ever before, strong gusts of wind didn’t stop people achieving their fitness goals with some running for chosen charitable causes too.
Tesfaye Debele, aged 20, came in first place for the second year running at a time of 31 minutes 42 seconds.
Talking to the Yorkshire Standard, the independent Leeds runner said: “I trained twice a day for the race and really enjoyed it. Next year I want to train harder and build my speed.”
He didn’t beat last year’s time of 31 minutes and two seconds, which was just 30 seconds off from his previous time, but coach Wondimu Keno said he was “very pleased” of Mr Debeles’ achievement.
Scott Harrington came in second place with a time of 22 minutes 21 seconds and third place went to Kevin Ogden who took a time of 33 minutes 41 seconds.
The female standings were much improved this year according to officials, as Danielle Hodgkinson came first with a time of 35 minutes 32 seconds.
Aiveen Fox came second at a time of 38 minutes 9 seconds whilst Laura Allen came third in 38 minutes 14 seconds.
In the over 60s group, Bryan Parkinson came first at a time of 42 minutes 15 seconds whilst John Smithurst was the only runner representing the over 70s group, who crossed the finish at 49 minutes 56 seconds.
Commenting on the event’s success, Katie Stocks, fundraising events officer at Epilepsy Action and race director, said: “The event is now in it’s seventh year and we’ve had a record number of signups, which is absolutely fantastic.
“We’ve already raised over £28,000 for Epilepsy Action and it seems that despite the wind, the race was enjoyed by all the runners and many people got brilliant times.”
The next Epilepsy Action 10k run has been confirmed for 22 March next year.
Ms Stocks added: “Each year we’re getting more and more signups, so we’re making more people aware of the race and getting the local community involved.”
Epilepsy affects around one in every 100 people in the UK and 87 people are diagnosed with the condition every day. Epilepsy Action will be looking to provide further help to those who have been diagnosed.
