Leicestershire's Pete Linnett is no stranger to pushing his physical limits to fund new treatments for spinal cord injuries. The former Britain's Strongest Disabled Man, born with Spina Bifida, has previously completed sponsored bench press and handcycle challenges. Now, at 62, he is keeping it in the family. On Thursday and Friday, he will hand cycle 106 miles from Leicester to Buckingham Palace to support his son Harry, who is running the London Marathon on Sunday.
Both are raising money for Spinal Research, the UK's leading charity funding life-changing treatments for those paralysed after a spinal cord injury. Pete, from Glen Parva, said: "Although I still go to the gym four times a week, that is mainly about strength, but this will be much more about endurance. It will be tough, but I really wanted to support Harry and to raise money for Spinal Research, a charity that means so much to the whole family. I'm one of the lucky few who can still walk, which is why I support those who cannot."
Pete is a former holder of Britain's Strongest Disabled Man title and has competed globally in disability sport, most recently placing fifth in his category at the World Strength Games in Texas. He is an inspiration to his son Harry, an event coordinator in London, who will line up on Sunday for his first marathon. Harry, 26, said: "My grandparents were told my dad would never walk, father children or live a normal life, but he's achieved what he could only have dreamed of as a child in sport and life. I've not once heard my dad complain, and I'm amazed everyday by his positive mindset and how nothing stops him from achieving his goals. It's going to be emotional knowing that at mile 26.2 my dad will be able to watch one of his sons, that he was told he would never have, cross the finish line to support a charity that has done so much for him."
Every two hours someone in the UK is paralysed after a spinal cord injury, affecting anyone at any time with devastating consequences. Suzanne Redding, head of audience and community for Spinal Research, added: "Pete is a true legend and we're so grateful to him and Harry for taking on this family challenge. Every pound raised takes us a step closer to our goal of curing paralysis. The first function-restoring treatments in history are now available to people living with a spinal cord injury, and more breakthrough therapies are coming. But we urgently need funds to get these to the people who need them."
To support Harry and Pete, visit their JustGiving page.
