An 84-year-old runner has taken part in what she says may be her "final half marathon".
Annie Bruce-Low from Glasgow, who now lives in Hampshire, joined the line up for the ABP Southampton Half Marathon on Sunday, May 3, an event she has taken part in almost every year since 2015.
Annie moved to Hampshire after her son settled in the area, but her passion for running goes back to her school days.
She said: "Running has been my medication – through Covid, through losing my husband, through all of it.
"And this event is something else.
"The organisers, the spectators, the other runners, they're all marvellous and deserve far more credit than they get for creating such an incredible race and atmosphere."
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Annie first completed the Southampton Half Marathon more than a decade ago and said she would never do it again – but returned the following year and nearly every year since, except for 2020 when the event was cancelled due to Covid.
The course is one she knows well, including the challenging Itchen Bridge, where she once fell during the race in high winds.
This year’s race was particularly meaningful for Annie as her son, who normally runs with her,, wasunable to take part.
Having also recovered from a recent injury, Annie's focus was on completing the race safely, rather than chasing a finishing time.
She said: "This year I'm running for Southampton Hospitals Charity, who work in partnership with University Hospital Southampton.
"My son and I are so grateful for how my husband was treated by all the different departments before he died, and it means everything to be able to give something back.
"It's been a tough year, but I couldn't not be here, and I can't wait to cross that finish line once again."
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Chris Rees, founder of Rees Leisure and the ABP Southampton Marathon, said: "We were honoured to have Annie race with us again.
"To come back each year and still be lining up at 84 after everything life has thrown at her, is a remarkable achievement.
"The ABP Southampton Half Marathon is for everyone – and Annie embodies that spirit completely."
For more information or to register, visit southamptonmarathon.co.uk.
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