By Mencap
Michael plans to run 100km in one week and raise a phenomenal £10,000 for Mencap.
The challenge
The challenge will take place over a week and will start with Michael taking part in the Cardiff Half Marathon on 6 October. Michael will then travel with his mum Erika to up to 13 local Mencap groups over the week and run between 5-10k with them. The challenge will end with Michael running the Manchester Half Marathon on 13 October, crossing the finish line at Old Trafford, to complete the 100km.
Michael is aiming to raise an amazing £10,000 by taking on this unbelievable challenge. We will be tracking Michael’s progress along the route as he logs those miles. Michael’s big aim is to spread the message that people with a
learning disability
A learning disability is to do with the way someone's brain works. It makes it harder for someone to learn, understand or do things.
can do anything they want to if you set your mind to it and have a goal. With his passion for running and his determined nature, we are sure that Michael will absolutely smash his challenge.
Michael Beynon will be visiting up to 13 local Mencap groups
During the challenge Michael will be promoting a fitness programme to all, encouraging people with a learning disability that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.
A bit more about Michael
Michael Beynon, from Chirk, in North Wales, is a Mencap Myth Buster – one of a group of people who are living life with a learning and
physical disability
A physical disability is to do with your body. You might find it hard to do some things like walk or lift things.
and campaigning for change. He has represented GB at the special Olympics and world games and was the first person with
Down syndrome
Down syndrome, also known as Down's syndrome, is a type of disability. People with Down syndrome may find it hard to learn new things and may need support. They may have more problems with their health too.
from Wales to run the London Marathon.
Michael took on both the Virtual London Marathon in 2020, and the in-person London Marathon in 2021, and raised just under £5,000 to support people with a learning disability across the UK.
Alongside running Michael also runs his own business COALPIT Welsh cakes. At this point we are wondering if there is anything Michael can’t do!
If you would like to make a donation towards Michael incredible challenge then please visit his JustGiving page. £25 could help to signpost a parent or carer to the support available in their local area and have a life changing impact.