My Cardiff Half: giving back to my dad’s cancer care

This autumn, politics student Joseph is taking on the Cardiff Half Marathon to support vital cancer research at Cardiff University. Read his story for inspiration or take on your own challenge and join #TeamCardiff.

What inspired you to sign up to the Cardiff Half Marathon?

In 2015, my dad was diagnosed with sarcoma cancer in the jaw. As a storyteller, the diagnosis not only affected his health, but also his livelihood and identity.

Thanks to researchers and medics at the University Hospital of Wales, my dad was given the all-clear. Raising funds for Cardiff University’s cancer research department is my way of giving back, as well as getting one step closer to ensuring no family endures the hardship mine did.

Can you describe your running journey so far?

I started running in the winter lockdown of 2021. I was a keen squash player, but due to Covid regulations, I couldn’t get back on the court. I needed a way to keep fit and running offered just that.

Later in 2022, my friend introduced me to parkrun, and my running really took off. Seeing my times drop motivated me to set bigger goals, and volunteering inspired me to make a difference on a larger scale – both of which led me to run the Cardiff Half for cancer research.

Can you tell us about your Cardiff Half training plan?

I’ve taken on half marathons before (Cardiff and Newport), so I’m not unfamiliar with the distance – but it’s definitely a challenge. The crowds make it much easier though, and the atmosphere is always amazing.

My training will mostly consist of easy runs, with a long run once a week. When I’m at home in Abergavenny, I’ll make sure to do some hill training, in preparation for the one in Roath at the ten-mile point! I’m also aiming to reach 150 parkruns by the time of the race, so I’ll definitely integrate them into the plan.

What are you looking forward to on race day?

I’m really looking forward to running the race with friends from university, my running club Runwithus Abergavenny, and regulars from Cwmbran parkrun. It will be great to see everyone who has cheered me on in my running journey. My family and friends have been hugely supportive of me taking on the race – they share my passion for the cause and I’m really grateful for their encouragement.

If you’re thinking of running yourself, I would say go for it! The money you raise will fund life-saving cancer research, and you have everything to gain.

Support Joseph

Show your support for Joseph on JustGiving and help him boost his fundraising total.

Join #TeamCardiff with your own place

Do you have your own place ready for the 2025 Cardiff Half Marathon? Join #TeamCardiff and support Cardiff University’s cancer or neuroscience and mental health research.

Take on a different active challenge

Whatever your fitness or ability level, there’s a challenge to suit you. Places are now available at running events across the UK and abroad – including races around Bristol, Amsterdam, and Alton Towers. You can even join #TeamCardiff for a night time trek up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) in July.

If you have any questions about joining #TeamCardiff, contact donate@cardiff.ac.uk.