John Thurkettle to complete Ipswich Half Marathon this year

John Thurkettle collapsed at mile 11 during the race on October 23 2022 due to a cardiac arrest. 

Kevin Ward saw that John, who was 60 at the time of the race, was in distress and performed CPR immediately, alongside fellow runners Ben Solway and David Smith.

Mr Thurkettle was taken to hospital and has since undergone surgery, which he is recovering well from, meaning he has recently returned to work part-time.

At this year's event on September 17, John will complete the final stretch of his 13.1 miles with his loved ones and those who helped save his life. 

John Thurkettle (front right) with some of the runners who helped to save his life, including back left David Smith, back right Kevin Ward and front left Ben Solway (Image: James Thurkette)

The family of John Thurkettle said: “It’s difficult for us to put into words the importance that CPR can play when saving a loved one.

"To put it bluntly, without the heroic and timely actions of all involved, we wouldn’t have our dad with us now. We can never repay what they have collectively done for us." 

John will also be a guest of honour at the start line at 9.30am when thousands of participants begin their own races.

Tristan Batley-Kyle, operations director at Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All said: “We are thrilled to welcome John back as the first finisher at this year’s Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon.

“John’s story shows the importance of quick thinking, learning valuable life skills and the sense of community at these events."

The Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon will kick off outside of Portman Road, before taking in the sights around the town and finishing back at the stadium later in the day.