Mark Rutherford

Mark's enthusiasm for life and adventure is an inspiration to us all. He has always been highly active in a number of sports including running, kayaking, swimming and diving but after completing a 5km race he collapsed and had a seizure. To most people this would be enough to give up sports all together, but for mark......it made him even more determined to carry on life to the full and be better than ever. He still competes regularly in fell races, marathons inspiring those around him but last year was his ulitmate challenge. He and 2 friends ran Hadrains wall (86 miles) in one go in a time of 23 hours 15 mins. This was a truely amazing feat which raised over £600 for the great north air ambulance and proved that determination wins in the end. He is also an active member of the Carlisle canoe club and always makes an effort to help out at events which assist the development of young people such as taster sessions, support cover for local schools rasiing money to go on exchanges overseas and general fun. Mark also helps provide saftey cover for open water swims in the Lake District, he loves being part of the team and is rewarded when swimmers achieve their dreams. His whole ethos is about being self motivated, determined, caring, having dreams and striving to achieve them, to me these are all characteristics of the Olympic's. We also get married next year and I know that if he was selected to carrry the torch he would feel truely honoured making 2012 his perfect year.