Despite cerebral palsy runner shows Howe it’s done

SICK of being picked last in team sports at school, Osborne Park resident Daryl Howe took matters into his own hands.

The 39-year-old who has C6 cerebral palsy has completed 20 marathons and is challenging himself further as part of the Australian 24hr Championships in Bunbury on August 12 and 13.

Having run since 1999 where he first entered the Bridges Fun Run, Mr Howe, who is often seen running on Main Street, said he first took up running because it was an individual sport and he was solely responsible for his success.

“I took up running because being in a mainstream school I was always picked last in team sports so an individual sport was the best option,” he said.

“I love running because it’s all up to me.

“If I don’t perform I only have myself to blame.”

The popular gardener, who is known for his jovial personality and can-do attitude, has completed marathons including New York, London and the Cape Town ultra marathon, said it was time he stepped things up.

“It’s important for me to keep fit and it also makes me feel good,” he said.

“As part of the Bunbury challenge I’m running on a 400m track.

“Training is going well and before that I have a couple of half marathons to complete in including the Run for a Reason.

“It’s important to challenge myself as it keeps my running interesting.”

Mr Howe, originally from New Zealand, said despite his challenges he believed anyone could achieve their dreams and hoped his story would inspire others.

“I always say to people that nothing is impossible, unless you yourself make it impossible,” he said.