Don’t Forget Your Gels

Running for Mental Health: Extreme Challenge with a Wheelbarrow

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Ben Brindley is not your average runner—he’s fast, fearless, and dedicated to raising awareness for mental health in the construction industry. Battling his own mental health challenges, Ben takes on extreme running feats, often pushing a wheelbarrow to raise funds for The Lighthouse, the Construction Charity, which supports construction workers who are at a higher risk of suicide. From 5km events to “Everesting” (175km in 40 hours with 9,405m of ascent!), the past 18 months have been packed with incredible endurance challenges. In this episode, Ben shares his running journey, fundraising efforts, and strategies for overcoming mental and physical challenges, making it inspiring listening for runners, mental health advocates, and anyone looking to make a difference.

Some of the audio on this podcast isn't up to our usual standards, but bear with, it's well worth a listen.

Check out Ben's instagram page https://www.instagram.com/brindleyrunner and support him on his Justgiving page https://www.justgiving.com/page/benswackyraces

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have two channels, this one and another for members only. If you'd to be the focus of one just let us know using the chat function on https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com

PODCAST NOTES

Keywords
 
wheelbarrow running, mental health awareness, fundraising, charity events, construction industry, Ben Brindley, running challenges, community support, world record attempt, personal stories
 
Summary
 
In this episode, Tim interviews Ben Brindley, a unique runner from Derbyshire who races with a wheelbarrow to raise awareness for mental health in the construction industry. Ben shares his journey from a casual idea to participating in various races, including marathons and challenging climbs, all while advocating for mental health support. He discusses the logistics of racing with a wheelbarrow, the importance of community support, and his fundraising efforts for the Lighthouse Construction Charity. Ben also reveals his plans for a world record attempt and offers advice for others looking to combine running with charitable causes.
 
Takeaways
  • Ben Brindley runs races with a wheelbarrow to raise awareness.
  • The wheelbarrow symbolises the invisible burdens people carry.
  • Ben has completed various challenging races with the wheelbarrow.
  • He raises funds and awareness for mental health in construction.
  • The Lighthouse Construction Charity supports mental health in the industry.
  • Ben's fundraising is a mix of awareness and financial support.
  • He engages the community by sharing his journey on social media.
  • Ben's world record attempt is for the fastest marathon with a wheelbarrow.
  • He emphasises the importance of training with the equipment used in races.
  • Ben encourages honesty and authenticity in fundraising efforts.
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    Titles
    • Running with a Purpose: Ben's Wheelbarrow Challenge
    • Breaking Barriers: Mental Health Awareness through Running
      • Sound Bites
      • "I run many races with a wheelbarrow."
      • "The barrow represents the invisible load."
      • "I've done silly things with a wheelbarrow."
      • "I take people on the journey with me."
      • "Be honest about who you are."
        • Chapters
         
        00:00 Introduction to Ben's Journey
        02:59 The Wheelbarrow Challenge Begins
        05:52 Race Logistics and Safety
        08:52 Mental Health Awareness and Fundraising
        12:11 The Lighthouse Construction Charity
        14:58 Fundraising Strategies and Community Engagement
        18:09 World Record Attempt Plans
        20:56 Challenges and Triumphs in Running
        24:04 Advice for Aspiring Fundraisers

         

         

         

         

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        Don’t Forget Your GelsBy The Sapphire Running Zone