Record half marathon hopes for dad living with MS, tell me about this news today

This story centers on Mark Allison, a 54-year-old father from South Shields, Tyne and Wear, who set his sights on breaking a Guinness World Record at the Great North Run despite living with multiple sclerosis (MS).

The Challenge and the Goal

Allison was diagnosed with MS around two decades ago, a condition that severely affects mobility, balance, and energy levels. Rather than letting the progressive neurological condition sideline him, he committed to completing the 13.1-mile Great North Run on crutches to break the world record for the fastest half marathon completed on crutches (with a non-amputated lower limb).

The Record to Beat

• Target Time: He needed to finish the 13.1-mile course in under 3 hours, 28 minutes, and 45 seconds to establish the new record.

• The Route: The Great North Run, stretching from Newcastle upon Tyne across the Tyne Bridge and finishing along the coast in South Shields.

The Purpose Behind the Run

Beyond achieving a personal sporting milestone, Allison took on the grueling physical challenge for two major reasons:

1. Fundraising: To raise funds and awareness for the MS Society, supporting vital research into treatments and providing assistance to families coping with the condition.

2. Representation and Hope: To demonstrate to his son, his family, and others diagnosed with degenerative conditions that a serious diagnosis does not have to be the end of personal ambition or resilience.