As Ambassador for the Solgar Pacers, Dame Kelly will be present alongside other Solgar Pacers to interact with fans and support runners in achieving their race day goals, whether they aim to secure a personal best or simply finish their first 10K or Half-marathon.
Dame Kelly says: “As someone who knows the importance of consistency & quality in looking after your health, becoming the Ambassador for Solgar® in their partnership of this year’s The Great Run series is an absolute joy. Their focus on supporting people’s wellness journey, whether they’re going for a personal best in a half marathon or just starting out, really resonated with me. It’s not just about the big win in the big race but it’s also about the small every day wins and those moments of self-care that keep us happy and healthy."
The Solgar Pacers are dedicated to helping runners reach their potential and cross the finish line. Each Pacer has their own inspiring story. One such Pacer, Richard Parker, 59, from Skipton, who has a remarkable journey. After losing his hearing suddenly 25 years ago, he found solace in running, which helped him cope with his challenges. “It was as if someone literally just flicked a switch and turned off my hearing. I was told it was possibly caused by a virus. So since then, I’ve worn two hearing aids. I have no hearing in one ear at all and only about 10% in the other. Becoming severely deaf plunged me into a very different world, I really struggled mentally and running really helped me cope. To run amongst nature, across the fields, being able to see and enjoy the seasons come and go, made me feel just how fortunate I was, despite my hearing loss. Plus raising money for charities through my running meant I felt that I could give something back. These days I’m no longer interested in my own PBs, but more in helping others reach theirs and achieving what they thought might not be possible!
This year, several new Pacer faces will join the ranks, including Andrew Porter from Burnley, Laura Colcough from Stafford, and Andy Hall from Oldham. Each brings their unique flair and motivation to the event, ensuring that the atmosphere remains vibrant and encouraging for all runners wanting that extra support on the day.
