Washington runner set to take on first marathon to support Veterans For Crisis Sunderland

Steven Hudak, 47, is running the Coniston Trail Marathon to support the Veterans in Crisis Sunderland charity, which is a cause close to his heart.

The marathon will see Steven run 26.2 miles off road around Coniston lake in the Lake District, with the added challenge of being at an elevation of 2300ft.

Despite the mammoth challenge of the marathon, the hard work will be worth it to benefit Veterans in Crisis Sunderland, according to Steven.

He said: “I’m really looking forward to it. It’s my first marathon and I couldn’t think of a better charity to do it for. I’ve always wanted to do marathons in the past but I've never been able to because of injuries.

“I’m not a veteran but my family do have an army background and I really appreciate the amazing work Veterans For Crisis do in the community. From offering support and advice to helping with addiction, mental health and PTSD they really are a brilliant charity.”

Despite suffering from a number of injuries over the years, Steven is confident of being able to complete the marathon.

He added: “I’ve been ill recently so my training is not where it ideally would be but I’m still confident of completing the marathon and can’t wait.”

Veterans for Crisis in Sunderland was set up to support veterans across Wearside and aims to provide help for veterans struggling with a number of issues including mental health, addiction, housing, employment and PTSD.

Their mission statement reads: “Our mission is to do everything we can to get veterans in crisis back on their feet, however long it takes. All veterans are welcome.

The Coniston Trail Marathon is organised by Lakeland Trails, who hold a number of trail marathons and other running events within the Lake District.

Steven will be taking part in the Coniston Trail Marathon on June 6 and anyone who wishes to support him and Veterans For Crisis Sunderland can do so via this link.

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