HE may feel too old to pound the streets with other runners but “Wonder Woman” Phil Grant will be cheering on thousands at a city 10k next month.
The 50-year-old has always been a regular feature of the Town and Gown event – supported by the Oxford Mail – and, despite what he calls “advancing years”, is set to be a superhero once more on Sunday, May 11.
Son Chris, 27, was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy aged four and Mr Grant from Charlbury has been raising cash for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign for the last 22 years.
The Town and Gown, which takes place around the city centre , raises funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign.
Mr Grant, who also has another son, Michael, 25, said: “I just got too old really to keep running, but I love going along the sidelines and cheering and egging everyone on.
“People are starting to know me now and I do get recognised. The costume is just a bit of fun and I stand out in the crowd. It’s nice to see people smiling when they go past.”
In the last two years alone he has raised £6,500 and can often be seen around the county at weekends with a collection bucket in hand to support the research charity.
One year, a young Chris transformed his wheelchair into a pirate ship with Mr Grant as sail and crows nest.
Mr Grant, who works in the warehouse and purchasing departments of Astor Bannerman, which makes care equipment for the disabled, added: “We, as a family, do what we can to help out. Collecting money or selling T-shirts, whatever we can do.
“It is very important to us. I think getting information and awareness out about this is essential.
“Everyone should feel welcome and it’s just about doing your best and what you can.”
The muscle-wasting condition causes muscles to deteriorate leading to increasing and severe disability.
More than 2,000 runners have already signed up for this year’s event which hopes to build on a record two years to attract 4,000 runners and raise £150,000.
- Sign up at townandgown10k.com
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