Member Article

Data Analyst to take on Great North Run challenge

A West Northumberland woman is taking on the challenge of the Great North Run this Sunday in aid of her local community centre.

Sarah Usher, originally from Wylam, is raising money for Hexham Youth Initiative, where she is treasurer.

It is the first time that Sarah, 26, has taken on the 13.1 mile route from Newcastle to South Shields, and is hoping to finish the course in under two and a half hours.

Sarah also works on the National Citizen Service (NCS) programme as a Data Analyst. The scheme, which is the country’s biggest youth movement sees 16 and 17 year olds take part in adventure and skills building residentials before giving back to their local communities through social action projects. Find our more at www.ncsyes.co.uk.

Sarah said:

“I’ve been the treasurer at Hexham Youth Initiative for almost two years and have taken on fundraising challenges like a sponsored skydive for them. I also climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in 2012 for a different cause.

“Hexham Youth Initiative is a key asset to the local community and I’m really proud to be supporting and fundraising for their excellent services.

“Before I signed up to take part in the Great North Run I hadn’t ran any long distances before. I’ve been training over the past few months and have been slowly building my way up to take on the 13 miles. I think I’ll finish somewhere behind Mo Farah – just!

“Although Sunday will be gruelling, I’ll be completing the run with a smile on my face – I’ll certainly be putting the ‘fun’ in fundraising.”

Sarah has already raised £210 but aims to raise £300 by Sunday. To support Sarah’s fundraising efforts, visit https://www.givey.com/sarahusher

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by NCS North East .