Devon paralympian makes marathon history

Congrats Dave Wetherill!

A former Paralympian from Plymouth has become the fastest man to complete the London Marathon on crutches.

35-year-old Dave Wetherill has etched his name into the record books after finishing in a remarkable time of just under six hours – 5:59:05 to be precise.

Wetherill’s incredible achievement shattered the previous Guinness World Record of 6:11:11, by a significant 11 minutes.

 Born with multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (MED), a bone condition that has required him to use crutches daily since the age of 10, Wetherill has never let his disability define him. 

A decorated table tennis player who has represented Great Britain at three Paralympic Games, he turned his focus to marathon running last year.

This wasn't Wetherill's first attempt at the record. He ran his debut marathon in Barcelona last year, clocking an unofficial time of 5 hours and 44 minutes, which would have already surpassed the existing record. 

His official entry into the London Marathon on Sunday, April 27th, was driven by his ambition to make that record official on one of the world's most prestigious stages.

His achievement will undoubtedly motivate countless individuals to pursue their own goals, regardless of the obstacles may face.

Here he is being cheered on through the capital yesterday.