ATHLETICS legend Steve Cram has signed up to join thousands of runners in the York 10K, saying the event could become as popular as the London Marathon.

The former mile and 1,500 metres world record holder and 1,500 metres World Champion said the race had “the potential to be huge” as he paid a visit to the city yesterday.

On August 2, 5,000 runners will take to the city’s streets in a ten-kilometre race to raise money for charity in memory of Yorkshire sporting and fundraising legend Jane Tomlinson.

It is hoped the race will raise tens of thousands of pounds for a wealth of good causes.

Mr Cram, founder of children’s charity COCO, which has partnered with the Jane’s Appeal for the York 10k, said: “It is going to be a fantastic event,” he said. “The setting in York is beautiful and I would urge everyone to be involved.

“It is in its first year and to get the chance to be there for the start of what I can see being as popular as other famous runs such as the London Marathon or the Great North Run is a great opportunity.

“Now is the time to be a part of it – I have been involved with so many races around the country and watched them grow and grow.

“By the time next year’s event comes around, I think places will be hard to come by – how quick the entry places sold is testament to that.”

He said there was still a chance to take part as COCO needed more runners to complete their quotas.

“There is a still a window of opportunity to be involved – we still have some places left.

“I think a lot of people are scared to come to events like this, fearing they are too old or overweight – but a 10K really is for everyone, whether you walk it or run it – it is about taking part and raising money for charity.”

He said if people did not want to cover the 10K, they could still be involved by being a volunteer.

“We need volunteers for the day – whether that be handing out water bottles, race marshals or handing out goody bags.

“It is a chance to be part of an event that will hopefully be earmarked in the city’s calendar for many years to come.”

The race will mark the ninth anniversary of COCO – a charity helping the lives of children living in poverty throughout the developing world.

Founded in 2000, COCO has since raised over £1.3 million, helping to fund children’s projects Africa,Thailand, Bosnia, Peru and Romania.

Anyone who wants to run for COCO or to volunteer can email laura@coco.org.uk or phone 0191 261 7427.


Steve’s training tips

* Plan your training regime back from the day – what you want to build up to and where you are now.

* Build up gradually – you will be surprised that even if you just start with a ten-minute walk today how far you can quickly improve.

* Commit to three training sessions a week.

* Try and do at least one long run a week.

* Have fun with your training – you don’t have to go to a running track or the gym.

* Try and do short bursts of running then walking to get your heart beat up and expand your lungs.