Scarborough University Technical College minibus driver to take on marathon challenge for cancer charity

Bob Casey, who works for Scarborough University Technical College, is taking on the Liverpool Landmarks Half Marathon on March 15.

His sponsorship money will go to the college’s chosen charity for this year - Stand Up To Cancer.

“I’m looking forward to it,” he said. “I’ve never been the most motivated about going to the gym but signing up to this challenge has given me something to focus on.”

The 56-year-old, from Cayton, started running after undergoing a heart valve replacement operation in 2017.

He discovered he had a heart murmur during a routine examination, and the condition progressed to the point that he needed surgery.

Since then, he has been determined to keep fit and healthy, and was inspired to take up running by his wife, Hilary.

“She has run quite a few half marathons,” he said. “We often run from Cayton into Scarborough and back again.”

In 2018, he climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in aid of the British Heart Foundation.

“I never used to run because I’ve got two prolapsed discs in my back but when I was training for Mount Kilimanjaro, I improved my leg and core strength and since then I’m able to run.”

Bob also suffers arthritis in one of his knees but says running has also helped this condition.

A spokeswoman for Scarborough University Technical College said: “Scarborough UTC’s charity for this year is Stand Up To Cancer and we are proud to be able to support Bob in his own personal fund raising effort for the charity.”

Anyone who would like to sponsor Bob can click here