Pushing Past Limits With Purpose | Running Tales Guest: Ben Parker
When most people hear the word “endurance,” they think of marathons or long trail runs. For Ben Parker, it’s about so much more. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2009, Ben went from navigating city streets as a full-time bus driver to navigating life in a wheelchair. But what might seem like the end of one journey became the start of a new one. Ben has become a wheelchair endurance athlete and his story is defined by resilience, positivity, and a refusal to let MS stop him.
Now, Ben is preparing for one of the UK’s most ambitious wheelchair endurance challenges: pushing from Lowestoft to Land’s End, covering over 800 miles starting July 27. His journey is a testament to the human spirit and the transformative power of movement.
From Diagnosis to New Purpose
Ben’s MS diagnosis brought unexpected change, forcing him to leave his job for safety reasons. Rather than retreating, he leaned into the challenge. A chance to help a friend study math reignited his sense of purpose, and over six years, Ben became a qualified teacher.
His path to transformation wasn’t just professional—it was deeply personal. He openly shares the emotional toll of losing mobility, the journey to accepting his wheelchair, and the mindset shifts required to keep moving forward. His story reminds us that becoming a better version of ourselves isn’t always linear—but it is always possible.
The Realities of Wheelchair Racing
Wheelchair racing brings unique physical and logistical challenges. Ben explains how something runners often take for granted—like a flat course—can be exhausting in a racing chair. Inclines are especially tough, and race-day assistance, while well-meaning, can sometimes feel intrusive.
His call to action for race organizers is simple: listen. Accessible toilets, smoother surfaces, and thoughtful feedback channels can make events more inclusive. His message resonates with anyone working to make the endurance space welcoming for all athletes.
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Parkrun to Marathons: Small Starts, Big Wins
Ben’s introduction to parkrun was humbling. Harlow’s hilly route challenged him physically and mentally, but it also lit a fire. Since then, he’s completed 10Ks, half-marathons, and full marathons—each finish line representing a victory over limitations others assumed he couldn’t overcome.
With no running background, Ben leaned on community support and internal drive. His progress underscores the importance of showing up, staying consistent, and keeping perspective. For Ben, it’s not about being the fastest—it’s about finishing what he starts.
A Challenge with a Cause
Ben’s upcoming cross-country journey is more than a personal milestone. He’s raising funds for two charities close to his heart: Andy’s Man Club, focused on male suicide prevention, and No Child Without, which supports disadvantaged youth. Every mile he pushes is a call for awareness, action, and connection.
Supporters can follow his training and journey through Instagram and donate via JustGiving. His challenge is about hope, inclusion, and the power of community.
More Than Movement—It’s Momentum
Ben’s story is a masterclass in mindset. Through every setback, he’s chosen courage, connection, and compassion. Whether you’re training for your next race, learning to adapt to a new reality, or supporting a fellow athlete, his journey is a reminder that endurance lives in the heart as much as the legs.
At Run Tri Bike, we believe in the power of everyday athletes to inspire greatness—and Ben Parker is proof that with purpose and perspective, we can all go the distance.
Click the button below to listen or watch this episode of Running Tales with Craig Lewis. You will enjoy hearing the story directly from Ben Parker about becoming a wheelchair endurance athlete.
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