​Walsall’s Usingh Bolt takes on Resolution Run

Walsall’s answer to Usain Bolt is set to officially start the Stroke Association’s 5k, 10k and 15k Resolution Run at 11am on Sunday 05 March at Hagley Hall.

IT support worker, Barinderjit Cheema, is currently working his way through a year of running challenges for the Stroke Association, including ten full marathons, ten half marathons and ten 10km races. Barry enters long distance events as Usingh Bolt, after his cousin coined the nickname. The Resolution Run is the latest in his fundraising venture, when he’ll be officially opening the event for more than 400 runners.

Barry was inspired to fundraise for the charity after his friend Neil Thompson passed away after a stroke in 2015, just before his 40th birthday.

Barry said: “Neil was a close friend from my school days and it really hit home how a stroke can affect anybody at any age. Sadly Neil didn’t survive, leaving behind a wife and two children. The Stroke Association was there for the Thompson family, and I know even more work is still needed to help raise awareness of stroke and its devastating impact.

“My father also had a stroke in 1992 just before he turned 40. It was touch and go as to whether he would survive, but fortunately he did. His stroke was very serious and physically he is still impacted, but thanks to the support we received from the Stroke Association and some wonderful medical professionals, he has been able to carry on with his life and he is still mobile.”

Katrin Winstanley, Community and Events Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “With around 1.2 million people across the UK living with the devastating impact of stroke it is vital that we have people like our Resolution Runners to raise funds and help us conquer stroke. We’re thrilled Barry is joining us to start the race, as part of his epic fundraising journey.

“At least half of strokes could be prevented if people made simple lifestyle changes, such as keeping blood pressure under control and exercising more. The money raised will help the charity fund vital research, support people affected and prevent stroke.”

To sponsor Barry, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/usinghbolt2017' or text USNG50 5 to 70070. Entry fee is just £15 and runners can choose the 5km, 10km or 15km course. All runners receive a technical running t-shirt and medal. For more information about entering or volunteering at the Resolution Run, visit www.stroke.org.uk/resolution, email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.