A lifelong Wolves fan has joined Team Foundation for this year’s Wolverhampton 10k as the first step of a journey to improve his health and fitness.
James Fereday, 36, is in training for next month’s event as part of plans to take part in several different fundraising initiatives this year to support the work of Wolves Foundation, the club’s official charity.
A service integration manager with the Vodafone Group, James is already enjoying the challenge of preparing for the 10k and associated benefits to mental and physical health that regular exercise brings.
“I’m not built for speed and definitely not your typical runner, but have been trying to get into shape and become more fit and healthy for a long time,” says James.
“I used to do martial arts as a kid, have been in and out of the gym doing heavy lifting over the years, and have tried to do couch to 5k on a few occasions.
“This year I decided to find a focus, and while part of it is selfish, to help me, I also wanted to give back.
“I’m a Wolves fan, my Dad’s a Wolves fan, and my grandfather, so the club has always been a big part of my life.
“I even talked my wife Kirstie – who is also running the 10k – into coming to a game this season as well!
“I have also been inspired by the incredible work of Wolves Foundation in supporting and giving people opportunities in the local community, and so it is a natural fit to try and raise money for that work.
“I am finding running is really helping me in terms of being able to get out and switch off from everything else, it’s a chance to de-stress and get everything out of my system.”
James is also planning to take part in the Molineux Abseil and Molineux Sleepout this year, to further boost his fundraising for the Foundation.
Starting and finishing the 10k at Molineux is obviously an added bonus given his lifelong support of Wolves, whilst donning the running trainers and getting out and about is also a trait which has, quite literally, run in the family.
“My Dad went on his own fitness journey a good few years ago and he has actually run about seven marathons which is incredible,” added James.
“He’s now an established runner and has told me to just make sure I enjoy the day and enjoy the interaction with the crowds.
“And the fact that it’s starting and finishing at Molineux, the Golden Palace, and raising funds for the Foundation, makes it all even better.
“It shows that Wolves is about more than just football - it’s pride, identity, and a shared sense of belonging.
“The Foundation takes that connection and turns it into something genuinely powerful by supporting children, young people, and adults through health, education, wellbeing, and inclusion.
“I’m really looking forward to the day.”
To support James, please visit his fundraising page by clicking here.
