On 16 November, Sgt Mike Templeman will run a 49-mile ultra-marathon in memory of those who lost their lives on Lincolnshire roads in 2023.
Each mile is a mile too many – representing each person taken too soon, and each family devastated by loss.
This incredible challenge follows Mike’s effort last year, which saw him run 48 miles for the 48 people who lost their lives in 2022. This event raised £4281 for road safety charities and inspired Mike, a Gainsborough Response Sergeant, to do it all again. Describing himself as “truly humbled,” Mike explained that his motivation to repeat the challenge was influenced by the families and friends affected by road deaths who shared their stories both online and on the day. He said, “We can and must collectively do more to make our roads safer for everyone. In my 22 years in the job, I have seen first-hand the devastation that road fatalities inflict. The Fatal Five offences that contribute to these needless deaths on our roads are: speed, distraction, drink/drug driving, carelessness and not wearing a seat belt. If this run can help highlight these factors, then every mile will be worth it.”
As with last year’s event, Mike’s aim is to highlight that devastating number of road deaths in Lincolnshire, whilst raising awareness of road safety. We will be including messages on the Fatal Five throughout our promotions for the event and on the day. The Fatal Five are the most dangerous things you can do when driving which, if eradicated from our roads, would result in a significant reduction in those killed and seriously injured.
The 49 miles will be completed on Saturday 16 November, ahead of world day of remembrance day for road victims on the Sunday. The run will take place at Yarborough Leisure Centre in Lincoln with no fewer than 197 laps of their 400m track making up the 79 kilometre distance.
Mike has a Just Giving page and we welcome any donations which will go to RoadPeace – the national charity for road crash victims. You can make a donation here.
Kate Davidson MBE, CEO of RoadPeace, said: “We are deeply moved by Sgt Templeman’s extraordinary commitment to honouring the lives lost on Lincolnshire’s roads. Every mile he runs is a powerful reminder of the families devastated by road crashes and the urgent need to address the Fatal Five offences that cause these preventable deaths. Mike’s efforts not only raise vital awareness but also demonstrate the personal dedication of those who witness this devastation first-hand.”
You can follow, like and share on social media: @LincsPolice and @SgtTempo using #MikesRoadSafetyAwarenessUltra. You can also come along any time on the day to support or even do a lap or two with Mike!
As a tireless promoter of road safety, Mike created a video released last December entitled “delivering the message” in which he explained the process of visiting a family to tell them that their loved one is not coming home. Being in the position many times of undertaking this task is behind Mike’s determination to complete this challenge. You can watch the video here:
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