Abbotskerswell cricketer running London Marathon for cancer charity

Runners stream away from the start of the London Marathon

ALL-round sportsman Ben Cowdry plans to tackle a new challenge on behalf of a cause that means a lot to him

Cowdry, a 17-year-old pupil at South Dartmoor College, will be running the 2018 London Marathon in aid of the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Cowdry plays hockey for Ashmoor HC and the college, is a keen cyclist and plays cricket for college and Abbotskerswell CC.

It was because of a problem that flared up while playing cricket last year that Cowdry found out he had a rare form of cancer.

He went in for what was supposed to be a routine knee operation, which uncovered synovial sarcoma. 

Two operations later Cowdry is cancer free and currently receiving a course of radiotherapy.

Paul Mitchell, the chairman of Abbotskerswell CC, said running for the Trust has a special significance for Cowdry.

“Ben has received some amazing care and support through the Teenage Cancer Trust and is now keen to give something back,” said Mitchell.

“We knew during the 2016 season Ben was troubled with a knee problem as it was a real struggle for him to run around in the field and whilst batting. 

“Ben called me in March to say that he would miss the start of this season as he was having an operation to clear up his knee problem.

“The severity of the outcome we know hit Ben and the family hard as well as us all at the club. 

“Despite the worry, Ben managed to get a few games in for us between operations and we are all delighted that he is now on his way back to full fitness and raring to go again next season.

“We are all very proud of the way he has handled the illness and ask all our friends in the cricket and wider sports community to rally and if possible make a donation to this fantastic cause.”

Contact Mitchell for details of how to make a donation.