Gareth Thraves

I have known Gareth for around 10 years and in terms of his own personal achievements he has been an inspiration to many people at our work (Northumbrian Water) initially having ran a 1:13:48 for the Great North Run. As a pacemaker for the British Milers Club he took the field through 200m in world record time, assisting other to world class personal bests. He also won the Corporate Games 10k in 2004, and then headed off to assist team mates at Cricket. In recent years Gareth has turned his attention to other athletes and is always willing to run with others and offer training guidance regardless of their ability. He just loves running and enjoys the challenge of getting people to exercise and to believe in themselves. He has helped a colleague to break the 90 minute barrier for a half marathon, sacrificing his own race, by carrying drinks maintaining the pace. Charity wise Gareth has raised hundreds of pounds for charities such as the Meningitis Trust and the Livestrong Foundation, where both life threatening diseases have had an effect on his life. This year he is running for Radio Tyneside, a hospital radio charity. I think the dedication shown in his own running and his willingness to help others at Northumbrian Water will give him legendary status, as he can't walk anywhere without someone asking 'Gareth are you still running?' He is an inspiration to all and I truly believe he should be rewarded in history by given the opportunity to carry the Olympic Torch.