Debbie Edwards Memorial Run Tuesday 22/04/25
Tuesday 22/04/25 is the 2nd anniversary of Striders inspirational Debbie Edwards passing away so instead of the usual club sessions there will be an all inclusive paced 5K run (the tees barrage parkrun route) in memory of her. We’ll meet at the anchor at 6:25pm ready for a 6:30pm start
Debbie was a well loved member of the club and the committee strongly believe we should have no official run sessions that evening as many members and coaches will want to attend the barrage run to honour and celebrate Debbie’s life.
The committee however are aware several of our newer members will not have known Debbie so I’ve been asked to do a short write up … wow where do I begin.
Debbie joined the club towards the end of 2017. As a visually impaired athlete, having lost her sight at the age of 19, Debbie came to the club for support with her running having previously run solo and the challenges that presented. Her aim? to get a sub 2hr half marathon!
Showing such enthusiasm, determination, compassion and dedication in 2018 she smashed PB’s in parkruns, 5k, 5 miler (with the worst hangover ever!) 10k, and a sub 2 hour half marathon!
She also threw herself into volunteering duties at the club and parkrun – she could do anything but timer at parkrun she used to say!
As with many of us, her running goal then turned to a marathon distance & in October 2019 along with her striders buddies she completed her first marathon at York.
As you all know Covid put the spanner in the works for 2020 running plans, so instead thought turned to 2021.
Sadly at Easter 2021 Debbie was diagnosed with breast cancer. However the diagnosis didn’t stop Debbie’s sunny take on life and she was determined to turn things into a positive.
Whilst undergoing treatment, she got back parkwalking & was determined to run again. She also dedicated many hours to fundraising for the Trinity Holistic Centre where she had received treatments.
All of her Striders buddies were there to support her with the fundraising. Another much loved and sadly missed Strider, Ben Robinson wrote and recorded our Striders song and Debbie & her Dollie’s ran GNR in 2022, raising thousands of pounds in the process.
Sadly Debbie lost her fight on 22nd April 2023, a fight she fought with dignity and strength.
Despite everything she was going through, Debbie was always the biggest cheerleader for her striders buddies and so it was fitting to have our striders member of the year award carry her name in tribute.
I’m sure she’ll still be looking down on us all with a big smile on her face cheering on everyone’s achievements – our very own Paula Radcliffe look alike 💚💙💜