Craig Bentham

Manchester Half Marathon 2026

My activity tracking

14
miles

Why I am fundraising for Parkinson's UK

Hi, I’m Craig — and this year I’ve decided to take on the Manchester Half Marathon to raise money for Parkinson’s UK, a cause that is incredibly close to my heart.

Fifteen years ago, my mum was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Like many families, we didn’t fully understand what that diagnosis would mean at the time. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition, and over the years we’ve seen first-hand the challenges it brings — not just the physical symptoms, but the emotional and mental toll too.

My mum has shown incredible strength and resilience throughout her journey. Each day she powers through with courage. This is both inspiring and, at times, heartbreaking. It’s one of the main reasons I’ve decided to lace up my trainers and start tanking pavements again. Time to get out there and put some miles in!!!

Running 13.1 miles will be a huge personal challenge. There will be tough training sessions, early mornings, and so many moments where I’ll question why I signed up. But none of that compares to the challenges faced every day by people living with Parkinson’s. On race day, when it gets hard, I’ll be thinking of Sandy B — and of the thousands of families navigating life with this condition.

Parkinson’s UK does vital work funding research into better treatments, campaigning for improved services, and providing support for those affected. Every donation — no matter how big or small — helps to make a real difference.

If you’re able to support me, I would be so grateful. Your contribution will not only motivate me through those 13.1 miles but will also help fund research and support that families like mine rely on.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, and thank you for any support you can give. Let’s make every mile count.

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My updates

First Miles!

Saturday 21st Feb
Since Christmas I have been putting in the miles but without a real focus. It was just to get moving more again. Now it’s time to keep putting in the yards on a regular basis and prepare for longer runs.

Thank you to my sponsors

£30

Stella Brown

Good luck Craig! Such a worthy cause. Your mum and dad will be so proud of you. x

£35.61

Sheelah Tennant

Great cause, go for it!

£10

Alex Beaumont

Good luck mate! Great cause! 🙂

£11.33

Vakaas Ahmed

Good luck brother ❤️

£200

Mum & Dad

Good luck Craig sure you will smash it. Thanks for doing it for Parkinson’s UK

£55.42

Norman

Go smash it Craig!!

£55.42

Judith Hinchliffe

Super human with all your commitments well done.

£11.33

Gary

Good luck Craig.

£15.45

William Lodge

Good luck mate, a great cause also very close to my heart.

£21.84

Wiggy

Top man Benth💪

£24.94

Linda Whitehead

Good luck Craig. Running for Parkinson's UK and your mum. Sending much love. Aunty Linda x

£27.05

Helen Hinchliffe

Good luck Craig!

£11.33

Eddie

£50

Sophie Bentham

£11.33

Liam Swain

£11.33

Kathryn Hardwick

Good Luck Craig! All those runs in the rain will be worth it! Kat, Paul, Olly and Jack x

£11.33

Liam Houldsworth

£11.33

Craig Bentham

Getting the ball rolling!