Welshpool backs Phil’s 7x10k challenge

A former headteacher who was once told by his late father that he was “too fat to run” is set to raise thousands of pounds from a week-long challenge that is being backed by huge swathes of the town.

Former Ysgol Caereinion head Phil Jones revealed his bid to run seven 10ks in seven days via MyWelshpool earlier this year.

And he has already raised over £3,000 in sponsorship and secured the support of a number of schools, businesses and organisations, including MyWelshpool whose co-founder David Williams will be joining Phil on his opening 10km leg on March 18.

Phil will be doing it all to raise money for Parkinson’s UK, after his father fought the illness for several years before passing away last year.

“Working with the Parkinson’s family through the 10x7 March Challenge, has allowed me to provide that cup of love, comfort, sympathy and support when needed,” said Phil. “It has been life changing!”

He will kick it all off with a 10k from Morrison’s Car Park from 9.30am on Monday, March 18, and finish it all off with a grand finale at the Welshpool 10K on March 24.

Phil says he has been touched by all of the support shown so far.

“When a school learner donates a £100 cheque that she won in a competition and when someone donates the remaining 16p from her purse, but actually she wanted to talk about her late husband who had died of Parkinson’s, then you know the Challenge has been a success,” said Phil.

“Sam MaGuinness of STA Supplies Limited will run all seven, while Rob Wyn Jones from Llanerfyl will join me on at least three of the runs. But there are so many running one, two or a few more. It has encouraged people to get back out there and run.”

Phil said he would like to thank Great Fitness, Morrisons, Hughes Architects and David Griffin at Travel Consultants for their support along with MyWelshpool for getting the word out there.

Phil’s week of 10ks!

Monday, March 18 (9.30am): from Morrison's Car Park and a run/walk along the canal.

Tuesday, March 19: Newtown College Campus

Wednesday, March 20: Gregynog Hall

Thursday, March 21: Meifod Primary School

Friday, March 22: Morland/The Rhallt and Welshpool High School

Saturday, March 23: Morrisons (Repeat of Monday)

Sunday, March 24: Welshpool 10k.

You can also support Phil’s efforts by clicking here

PICTURE by Phil Blagg Photography: Welshpool High School are supporting Phil and he is pictured (on the right) with Josh Kinsey, Deputy Head Teacher (left), and Jon Arnold (Headteacher)