This weekend, Royal Navy veteran Alexander “Midge” Ure will take will lace up his running shoes and join fellow supporters on the streets of Portsmouth and Southsea as they take on the Great South Run, raising funds for the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC).
A familiar face within the Royal Navy community, Midge served for almost 33 years in the Royal Navy after joining HMS Raleigh in September 1990. During his career, he served on Vanguard, Swiftsure and Trafalgar-class submarines before finishing as a Warrant Officer 2. He now continues to support Royal Navy training through his work with STS Defence Limited at HMS Sultan.
Having enjoyed an active lifestyle throughout his naval career as both a footballer and runner, Midge admits that fitting training around civilian life can be challenging, but says the race gives him something to work towards each year.
Midge said:
“The GSR is my local running event, so it’s an easy one. It’s also flat and takes in the beautiful sights of Portsmouth and Southsea,” he said. “My running club, 545 Absolute Running, and STS Defence both have plenty of runners taking part, so I have many friendly faces around me to keep me motivated.”
When it came to choosing a charity, supporting RNRMC was an easy decision. Midge explained:
“I’ve had many dealings with RNRMC and plenty of reasons to be grateful for the work they do in my local community. Both my children are currently serving in the Royal Navy, so anything I can do to help provide better opportunities for them in the future, I will endeavour to do. The charity is always in my thoughts when looking to raise money.”
Midge has also seen first-hand the impact charitable support can have through his wife, Lesley, whose role supporting service children in Gosport brings her into close contact with initiatives supported through RNRMC funding.
Everyone at RNRMC wishes Midge the very best of luck and thanks him for helping raise vital funds for the naval community. To cheer Midge on, visit his JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/alexander-ure-5
