A SPORTY 10-year-old wasn’t going to let a bit of snow put him off his mission to raise funds for the cancer unit where his friend’s beloved gran is receiving treatment..
Lucas Wint, of Westbury, has so far raised more than £700, with complete strangers adding to his online appeal total.
His mum, Frances Wint, 38, a teaching assistant, explained: “Lucas was determined to run the 5K Bowerhill Bomber race on February 3 to raise funds for the Bath Cancer Unit Support Group but the event was snowed off and cancelled.
“He wanted to raise funds for the BCUSG because his best friend, Jack, had told him about his grandmother, who is receiving treatment at the RUH for cancer.”
Undeterred by the icy conditions, family friend Tom Reynolds took Lucas out and they ran their own race around Westbury, covering over 6.5k.
Hearing about Lucas’s determination, the Bowerhill Bomber race organisers contacted Frances and her husband Andy and offered to take Lucas around the 5k route once the snow and ice cleared.
A week later Adam Firks, of Redfish Events, which organises the race, ran the very muddy route with Lucas, enabling him to complete his personal challenge in an impressive 26.5 minutes - and to be the only 2019 runner to receive a medal.
Mrs Wint, of Storridge Road, Westbury, said: “I’m very proud of Lucas. He came up with the idea and has worked incredibly hard to raise the money.
“He originally set a target of £50. Complete strangers have donated to our online appeal. It’s been incredible.”
Lucas, who goes to Bitham Brook Primary School, said: “I’d like to thank all the people who have donated. It’s really kind of them and really means a lot to me.”
BCUSG chairman Mike Taylor said: “We’re absolutely blown away by this young man’s determination and very grateful for the incredible amount of money he has raised. Well done Lucas.”
Lucas plays football for Westbury Youth U11s and his school teams, while his sister Hallie, eight, ran last year’s Race for Life with her Mum.
To donate, visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/FrancesWint
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