A student from Manchester University is putting his best foot forward in one of the region’s biggest racing events to help communities devastated by war.
25 year old PhD student, Finn Box, is taking part in the Great Manchester Run to raise funds for City Centre-based Nobel Peace Prize-winning charity, MAG (Mines Advisory Group), whose work clearing landmines and destroying weapons helps communities rebuild their lives after conflict.
Part of a team of runners taking part for MAG, Finn will be the only participant pounding the pavement in MAG’s heavy demining gear, complete with helmet, flak jacket and metal detector.
Said Finn: “It will be tough in all that equipment, but so worth it!”
“We’re lucky in Manchester. We don’t have to worry that our next step could be our last. But landmines and other deadly items left after war kill or injure 11 people every day. In some countries, one-third of those victims are children.
“MAG does incredible, life-saving work all over the globe to help clear this threat. I’m proud to be able to support them.”
Cat Smith, MAG’s Fundraising Officer, is encouraging more students to get involved.
She said: “Everyone, no matter what their fitness, can take part – whether you’ve always fancied having a go but never got round to it, or you’re a marathon pro. And just by joining Team MAG, you can transform the lives of people in some of the world’s poorest communities.”
Race registration is now free! To find out how you can take part, please visit www.maginternational.org/gmr for the Great Manchester Run.
