Clare Sharkey will participate in the Leeds Abbey Dash this weekend to support Ilkley Good Neighbours Dementia well-being café that supports her mum and dad.
Clare, a teacher from Leeds, is gearing up to participate in Sunday’s event, running in honour of her father and regular participant, Keith, who stepped back last year at the age of 86, having run in every Leeds Abbey Dash since it started in 1986. For Keith, it has always been more than just a run—it’s a way to stay active and challenge himself year after year.
This year the family will be donating their funds raised to Ilkley Good Neighbours Dementia well-being café, who help Keith and his wife Pat to stay connected with the vibrant local community.
Clare said: “Running the race with my dad, Keith, and my cousin two years ago was a day filled with joy and cherished memories. It was my first and his last Leeds Abbey Dash. All the other runners cheered us on as they passed us on their way back – it was really emotional. I’m not a natural runner, but this is for him.”
Keith, who now enjoys walks with friends, will be there at the finish line, cheering them all on. The family of runners, consisting of Clare, her cousins, and their partners—a total of seven—will draw inspiration from Keith’s enduring passion for running.
Clare adds: “The support and encouragement from my dad as we run means the world. It’s going to be a lovely day.”
The Leeds Abbey Dash is this Sunday, 13th October 2024, starting at Millennium Square at 9:30am where it also finishes.
You can support Claire and the well-being café by making a donation to Clare’s JustGiving page www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/clare-sharkey-3