RUNNING a half-marathon is a huge achievement by anyone’s standards, but doing it with a congenital heart defect, that makes even walking difficult, is nothing short of heroic.

That is exactly what 60-year-old Acton resident Edward Eagle will be doing on Sunday, September 29, when he lines up for the Ealing Half Marathon.

Having undergone two open-heart surgeries and been in hospital for a number of heart attacks, Edward began his journey to the start line at the 2016 race.

As a spectator, he saw everyone smiling and having a good time and felt it was something he would like to do.

Edward signed up to his local running club, the Ealing Eagles, in May 2017. He started their Beginners 0-5K programme and went on to complete his first 10K.

Edward volunteered at last year’s half-marathon on one of the water stations, which strengthened his resolve to run the event. His role as a volunteer earned him a free place.

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Any hiccups along the way, he takes in his stride, such as an enforced break from training following his latest heart procedure in April.

In 2016, Edward was invited back to the children’s hospital where, aged seven, he underwent his first open-heart surgery.

As a guest of honour, he celebrated 50 years since his life-saving operation and spent time talking to young patients.

“It may take me a long time, but my Ealing Eagles friends will be waiting for me at the end and cheering me over that finish line,” he said.

Now is the perfect time to sign up and train for the much-loved Ealing Half. For complete beginners, starting Couch to 5K, there is still time.

Go to www.ealinghalfmarathon.com to register and for further race info.