A veteran from Sheffield is currently training to compete in a 100km walk in Yorkshire for Blind Veterans UK, the national charity for blind and vision-impaired ex-Service men and women…
David Seddon, 56, has an incredibly busy 2018 ahead, with the 100K Yorkshire planned alongside four half marathons. He explains: “As a veteran myself I’m always on the lookout for new military charities to support. I found Blind Veterans UK and was instantly taken by the cause.”
David was in the Royal Corps of Transport, serving across the UK at both Catterick and Regents Park, as well as in Minden, Germany. He served from 1980 until 1987 and explains that if he could do it all over again, he would. He says: “Civvy Street has not been an easy journey for me. I have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) along with a number of mental health illnesses.
“This is why I do what I do. Whether it’s running 13.1 miles or walking 100km, for me it’s just so important to raise money for those less fortunate than myself. We have a comradery that civilians would just not understand. From your first day of basic training you learn that the person stood next to you could one day very well sacrifice their own life to save yours. You never forget that and you remain ‘Brothers in arms’ long after you discharge.”
Alongside the 100K Yorkshire, which takes place from 23 – 24 June, David will be embarking on half marathons in Sheffield (8 April), Leeds (13 May), Rutland (16 September) and Manchester (14 October).
With a training schedule that leaves one exhausted by just thinking about it, David has been sure to leave no stone unturned in his preparation. He says: “I’ve invested in proper gym-grade equipment, partly because of my anxiety, which makes it difficult for me to leave the house. Every day is something different. Thursday is rowing machine and treadmill day – not for the faint hearted!”
The 100K Yorkshire will take place from 23 – 24 June 2018. It will see participants start and finish at Darley Memorial Hall in Nidderdale, with a circular route which passes through Brimham Rocks, Ripley Castle and an abundance of stunning fields.
Registration is now open with a fee of £40 for individual and team entrants, and £90 for relay teams. There is a minimum sponsorship pledge of £300 for individuals, £1,250 for teams and £500 for relay teams. The all-inclusive entrance fee includes lunch, dinner and breakfast at numerous rest stops, snacks and refreshments along the route and a free event t-shirt.
To support David as he prepares to take on the 100K Yorkshire for Blind Veterans UK, please visit www.justgiving.com/d-seddon1
To sign up for the Blind Veterans UK 100k, please visit www.blindveterans.org.uk/100k