Inspiring Boy Prepares for Mini Great North Run After 8 Major Surgeries
The theme of this year’s AJ Bell Junior and Mini Great North Run is ‘Finding Your Superpower,’ and we’re celebrating some of the incredible young runners who embody this spirit.
These young athletes are not just participating in a race; they are discovering their inner strengths, pushing their limits, and showcasing their unique abilities.
The kids get their own chance to shine on ‘Super Saturday’ – a chance for them to experience a big event atmosphere, which is what our event is all about!
Brave Young Chip to Conquer Mini Great North Run with Team Sunshine Fund After Overcoming Multiple Surgeries for Rare Genetic Condition
Chip Richardson, a courageous 4-year-old boy with Apert Syndrome, is set to be one of our brave Mini runners on Saturday 7 August. Despite going through 8 major surgeries on his hands and skull, with more planned for his feet; ankles, and midface before he even starts secondary school, Chip remains determined to stay active. This year, he will participate in his second Mini Great North Run as part of Team Sunshine Fund.
Running is a family tradition for Chip. His grandad, Paul, took part in the first-ever Great North Run, and his dad has run the race seven times. Due to the severity of Chip’s Apert Syndome, he will be taking part in his wheelchair. However, his mam is hopeful that he will be able to walk across the finish line. “After 8 major surgeries and weekly therapy sessions, it’s nice to do something ‘normal’, and wanted to do it as part of Team Sunshine!” she says.
Chip has already fundraised for the Sunshine Fund at his nursery, and the family intends to raise funds for them again. “They have helped us so much as a family. It was through Sunshine Fund families that we met another local family whose two sons have Muenke Syndrome, a condition similar to the Apert Syndrome that Chip has,” his mam explains.
Chip’s journey is a testament to his resilience and the support of his family and community. His participation in the Mini event is not just a race but a celebration of his incredible spirit and determination.
This year’s AJ Bell Junior and Mini Great North Run is SOLD OUT and set to be the biggest ever, with over 10,500 children ready to take part. If you want to be part of the excitement next year, sign up here to be notified when 2025 entries open.
We can’t wait to see you all on the start line, dressed in your best fancy dress and ready to find your superpower!
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