Baston runner completes 21-mile challenge for Peterborough Down's Syndrome group

Baston dad Kieran Lynch ran through the pain barrier to raise money for a down syndrome group particularly close to his heart.

Kieran completed a 21-mile run around Baston, Langtoft and Market Deeping to mark World Down’s Syndrome Day on March 21.

The gruelling four-and-a-half-hour run also raised money for the Peterborough Area Down’s Syndrome Group (PADSG).

“Harrison has Down Syndrome and when we moved back here from London the charity was really helpful to us as a family," said Kieran.

"They have supported us so much I wanted to give something back to them.”

A lifelong sportsman, Kieran has rheumatoid arthritis in his knees and feet, but it didn't deter him from taking on a second epic running challenge in as many months.

He completed a challenge to run 100 miles during February with a clubmate from Deepings Rugby Club.

This gave him the impetus to tackle a distance just five miles short of a full marathon.

Training time was limited, however, having come up with the idea on his birthday - just six days beforehand.

“I’ve played football and play rugby now, but I’d never been into running,” Kieran explained.

“I didn’t think I could do the 100 miles in February, but I smashed it.

“So from that I fancied pushing it a little bit more and raising some money for the group."

A friend joined him towards the end to get him through the hard yards, while supporters en route also supplied water and bananas.

“The first 10 miles was fantastic and it was only towards the end I thought ‘I don’t know if my body can do this’," he added.

“I was quite surprised that I kept going for such long periods - the encouragement was brilliant.

“It has really motivated me to do a marathon."

Kieran has already exceeded his initial £150 target, and four days after the challenge, the tally stood at £1,300.

However, his main support crew on the day were sons James (10) and Harrison (8).

“Harrison has aspirations to grow, learn to become a chef, have a family and friends, and live as independently as possible, and we believe he can," said Kieran’s partner Emily Jellis.

To donate, visit www.facebook.com/donate/171107251370521 and to find out more about PADSG, visit www.padsg.org