Day 5 – Marathon Sunday

So came the final day, marathon day itself and with it, closed roads and amazing support lining the route.

Patrick started in Carrington at mile 20, through Urmston and back to Stretford.  The extra mile today was a bit tougher for Patrick, but the phenomenal support of the crowds cheering along the way spurred him on to the finish.

In particular Patrick would like to say a huge thank you to spectators at the 25 mile marker at Stretford road onto the main Chester road, the support there was awesome.

Runners were patting him on the back as they passed. Huge cheers from the crowds lining the finish saw Patrick home at 12:45

Patrick has recovered well.  He slept most of the way home, stopping for a now traditional doughnut or two ????

When asked about his weekend, Patrick said appearing at the Marathon Eve Meet-Up was a great experience.  It gave him an opportunity to tell his story from his point of view and was great.   Yes, he does raise money, but his main aim is to show people that whatever their challenge, they can do it.  “If you put your mind to it and use whatever means necessary, you can do it”.

Patrick loves the event and may be back for another go next year, watch this space!

Day 4 – Saturday

Patrick started at mile 15, heading through Brooklands, Sale West and Ashton Upon Mersey finishing on the straight up to Carrington at Mile 21.

That evening he spoke in front of a crowd of hundreds at our Marathon Eve event

 

Day 3 – Friday

Covering five miles today, Patrick started his journey this morning from Timperley and walked the route to Altrincham and looped back up to the 15 mile mark.

Patrick has just finished at the 15 mile marker and is having a well-deserved rest! He is in great spirits and looking forward to Saturday ????

 

Day 1 – Wednesday

The best of luck to Patrick Barden who has today started a revised pavement route of the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon which will see him undertake the 26.2 mile distance over the next four days, on foot and with a frame to help him.

Patrick is 24 and has cerebral palsy.  He is raising awareness for the charity that has supported him growing up, Step and Learn. Walking with his dad Colin and other family and friends he has to stop frequently for rest breaks to ensure his muscles don’t seize up.

In October 2017 he completed the Wiggle Manchester Half in 3 days.  He has also undertaken other events to support his charity and raise funds to help those affected by motor neuron conditions. Patrick will be a special guest at our Marathon Eve Meet-Up on Saturday.  For all the details please visit the Marathon Eve Meet-Up page

He will be crossing the finish line at the marathon on Sunday where a 20,000 field of participants will also be taking part.

This morning at his start outside Trafford Town Hall, he said “Great to be back. Manchester is my 2nd home”

We will keep you updated on Patrick’s progress over the coming days.

Good luck Patrick!