Former Yapton teacher will be an Olympian runner soon

Dudley Floodgate will be among just 5,000 entrants in a five mile run which ends at the stadium’s finishing line.

The unique event will take place on March 31.

Dudley, 61, is looking forward to an occasion beyond compare.

“This is a fantastic opportunity and something that comes along just once in a lifetime,” he said.

“I didn’t manage to get any Olympic tickets so this will probably be my only chance to see the stadium.”

The race starts at 2pm outside the stadium and winds its way around the Olympic Park - passing such sights as the Velodrome and Aquatics Centre - before ending in the stadium.

Dudley has chosen Crossroads Care South Central to benefit from his experience.

He has already raised £2,000 towards its work with carers and hopes to take the total closer to £5,000 by race day.

He said: “I want to make the experience benefit carers living in West Sussex and Hampshire.

“My wife and I spent a number of years supporting my parents in the latter stages of their lives. So, we understand the stresses and strains of being a carer.

“If my efforts help just a few people, then they will definitely have been worth while.”

Dudley began running in 2000 to prove to his sons his age wasn’t a barrier.