We went along to hear Colin Jackson, Robbie Britton and Dean Pitcher talk about this year’s Wings for Life World Run.
Returning for the fourth year, Wings for Life World Run is a unique synchronised charity race brings together runners of all levels around the world to run simultaneously, no matter what time it is in their location. Wings for Life sees participants of all abilities in 25 countries run day or night across 6 continents.
With over 130,000 participants racing worldwide the competition is stepped up with a ‘Catcher Car’ that sets off to catch up with the runners. Gradually increasing its speed and driven this year by former Formula One driver David Coulthard, the car overtakes runners and wheelchair participants one by one and knocks you out of the race, with the last runner to be caught crowned the global champion.
Registration is now open for groups and individuals to sign up for the 2017 race in Cambridge with 100% of the entry fee going towards spinal cord research. You can enter now at
www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com
This is a brilliant concept and a brilliant event. It truly is suitable for all runners. The catcher car gives everybody a head start of 30 minutes so whether you want to walk a few km or test yourself out to see just how far you can get, this run will deliver.
We got some top tips for runners doing Wings for Life from Colin, Robbie and Dean.
Colin Jackson (Olympic and World Championship medallist at the 110m hurdles and Race Director of Wings for Life): take your time, don’t go out too fast.
Dean Pitcher (wheelchair user following a spinal cord injury in 2009): just enjoy it - it’s a great day out.
Robbie Britton (ultra runner and Team GB 24 hour runner): get yourself into a comfortable pace, then take that back a notch. When it gets tough break it down mentally - e.g. just think about getting to the next lamppost. And most importantly don’t look back when the car is coming up behind you. Robbie thinks we shouldn’t give David Coulthard the satisfaction.
If you can’t make it to Cambridge or any other worldwide location, Wings for Life World Run has a Selfie Run app that allows racers who can’t be at a race location to take part at the same time as the other runners, anywhere in the world with its very own virtual ‘Catcher Car’ within the app. The app also contains features to help with your training in the run up to race day.
No matter where they live, runners of all levels can sign up for any location of their choice. For more, including registration information and location updates, visit
www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com.
