THE SISTER of the late Glamorgan Star journalist Sharon Harris has revealed plans to run this year’s Barry Island 10K race in her memory.
Julie Williams has begun training for the race, which encompasses many of the town’s most scenic spots including Whitmore Bay, The Knap, Romilly Park and Watch House Bay.
The annual summer fixture takes place on Sunday, 6th August, shortly after Julie’s 50th birthday, and she has decided to mark the occasion by taking part in memory of her much-missed sister Sharon, whose sudden death in October 2021 at the age of 50 came as a profound shock to all who knew her.
Sharon had worked as a reporter in Barry since 2007, where she became a popular and widely-respected presence in the community, known for her journalistic integrity, sensitivity when dealing with difficult stories and her sense of fun when reporting on lighter matters.
In 2003, at the age of 32, Sharon was diagnosed with a tumour (microadenoma) on her pituitary gland and she also suffered from Cushing’s syndrome.
Despite her health problems, Sharon lived a life full of adventure as she pursued her passion for travel throughout the world, and she was particularly proud of her role as a ‘Games Maker’ at the London 2012 Olympics.
Running was another of Sharon’s passions, and she did not allow her health difficulties to prevent her from taking part in the London Marathon and other races, where she raised large sums of money for charities including The Pituitary Foundation.
Julie shares her late sister’s passion for running, and she will be using the opportunity to raise funds for Hospice of the Valleys, where she works as a business and community fundraising manager. She said: “I’m doing this to mark my 50th birthday and to remember my amazing sister Sharon as Barry and its people meant so much to her.
“This is going to be a big challenge emotionally and physically as I’ve recently undergone gallbladder and bariatric surgery.
“I’m still recovering from the operation and I won’t have much time to prepare for the 10K race, but I’m still determined to do it.
“This will be the last time I take part in the race – I don’t expect anybody to believe me – Sharon kept saying it was going to be her last race and she always came back for more!
“I’ll feel Sharon’s presence every step of the way while running in a place she loved dearly, and it’s also a great way to raise money for Hospice of the Valleys to help with their work in providing a range of care and support services for people with life-limiting conditions.
“I know times are hard and anything people can afford to give will be greatly appreciated by me and the whole team at the hospice.”
To donate to Julie’s fundraiser, please visit: JustGiving
By MARCUS STEAD
• A tribute to Sharon Harris 1970-2021
• A fitting way to remember Sharon
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