Blind runner takes the Great Scottish Run in his stride

06 October 2022

While being of Scots heritage is not mandatory to take part in the Great Scottish Run – held last Sunday in Glasgow – it must help to be running on home turf, especially if the first one taken part in and even more so if it is the début running challenge for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

One of those taking part was Scott Cunningham, a blind runner and the Challenge and Community Events Officer for SSAFA.

Scott, a resident of Larkhall in South Lanarkshire, is as at home fundraising as he is running. His career has spanned years in the third sector and fundraising circles, and he has taken part in some 12 marathons – and that is in just the past 18 months.

Describing the Great Scottish Run as a “fantastic challenge”, Scott added: “I enjoyed every step of the way in beautiful weather from George Square in the city centre throughout parks over to the South Side then finishing back at Glasgow Green.”

But even such an accomplished runner as Scott benefits from having a running buddy or two. These came in the shape of his friends David and Moira Mooney.

“David was my eyes,” said Scott, “and he was an incredible guide around the course, so big thanks to him for the effort running AND guiding.”

Scott added that David’s wife, Moira, joined the pair and helped when the course became busier with the three running in peloton style.

Of his first running event for SSAFA, Scott said: “My run was dedicated to Her Late Majesty The Queen, who was Patron of SSAFA, which is the oldest tri-service charity in the UK.

“We sure got loads of cheers and encouragement along the course by serving military and veterans, which helped make a great event even more special, and something I’d encourage anyone to try.”