A SECOND-timer is taking part in perhaps the world’s most famous marathon in New York next month.
Scottish Borders Council IT official Keith King is running for his mum Muriel, of Russell Place, Selkirk, who has had Parkinson’s disease for more than 25 years.
Between them, Keith and his brother Struan have raised thousands of pounds for the research and support charity Parkinson’s UK.
Keith said: “I’m really excited about the start. When you look online and see the pictures, it looks fantastic and I’m looking forward to running down past Central Park. It’s one of the most iconic races and it’s the biggest mass participation marathon - they’re talking about 50-60,000 people doing it this year.”
What will spur him on is running for Parkinson’s UK. “It doesn’t help my mum in particular, but it goes into a big pot and will help others in the UK, which is good.”
The 42-year-old, who lives in Galashiels, continued: “The fact that I can run and do these things and that Mum can’t: to be running for somebody who can’t is quite touching, if that’s the right word.”
Proud dad, community councillor Ian, said: “The more awareness we can raise the more people chip in and help make the effects of this devastating disease easier.”
Keith’s first marathon was last year in Edinburgh when he vowed “Never again”! He and his midwife wife Becca fly out to New York in about a week for the race on Sunday, November 4. To donate, go to www.virginmoneygiving.com and type in Keith King in the ‘what’s your friend’s name’ box to get to Keith’s ‘Keith versus the 2012 New York Marathon’ fundraising page.