Bampi and I are Champions

It is one thing to win a marathon but to win a marathon three times on a trot. The total number is four and it would have been more save for punctures during the last three.

It is just the latest win in a remarkable sporting career for Richie Powell. The Welsh Athlete was a protege and great friend of Chris Hallam.

The ABP Newport Marathon Festival consists of a marathon, half marathon and a 10k along with kids races on the same day.

If Richie winning in front of a large crowd was not enough for family and friends to cheer about there was an upcoming toddler by the name of Tommy who won the toddler’s race and happens to be the grandson of Richie Powell.

Richie said: “This year I set off and punctured in the first mile. I had to get out of my race chair in the Newport Stadium, sit on the floor and change the tyre.

“It took me the best part of 30 minutes to sort out, meanwhile all the runners ran past so by the time I sorted the flat I was 5 miles behind the lead wheelchair.”

Those who know Richie know full well that quitting is not an option for this extraordinary athlete. Richie said: “I weaved through the runners and caught up with second at 11 miles and put the hammer down and caught up with first at 23 miles.

Incredibly Richie went on to win by 3 minutes. Despite the remarkable comeback and so much success during his career, Richie said that the icing on the cake was being able to watch his grandson cross the line as a winner and give him a huge hug.

For little Tommy, he could not be prouder of his Bampi and after a long and energetic day, Tommy was glad to get home and get to bed. Richie celebrated in moderation. He has a number of races lined up for 2024.