Megan Bates

Megan, 14, is a middle distance athlete (as was Lord Coe), and competes for Eden Runners; Team North Cumbria and the Cumbria County Team. The 20th June, when the Olympic Torch is due to be carried through Carlisle, is a significant date for Megan. Last year, on the 20th June 2010, Megan had a Team North Cumbria competition at the Sheepmount Track in Carlisle, but unknown to the rest of her team her mother Joanna (a single mother) so sadly died unexpectedly just before midnight. Megan wanted to support the team and compete, incredibly bravely producing a personal best 1500m time and taking part in the relay as she always does - it was very moving. Under her grandparents care Megan remains optimistic and cheery and always tries her best for her school, club and county teams and is a dedicated hardworking inspirational athlete to all those around her, always striving to improve. She is the current Cumbria U15 800m County Champion, County Record Holder and North of England U15 800m Champion. She competed at the English Schools Championships in July 2010, three weeks after her mother had died - helping the Cumbria team win the Junior Girls Trophy. Her mother would have been so proud of how she is coping and how well she is doing - everyone who knows her admires her courage. She is a lovely runner and would make a very fine Olympic Torch Bearer.