Fed member overcomes 28-degree heat to raise funds for Parkinson's UK

7 February 2024

A West Midlands Police Federation member says 'the community spirit’ helped him to overcome 28C heat to complete the Marrakesh Half Marathon.

Inspector Adhnan Afzal took inspiration from Muhammad Ali and others who have had Parkinson’s disease to sign up for his first half marathon.

Adhnan completed the course around the Moroccan city in support of Parkinson’s UK and to raise awareness about the disease.

And he said the atmosphere on the course and the goodwill of fellow runners helped him to complete the course in difficult conditions.

“It was a great experience,” Adhnan said. “There was a lot of people lining the roads, children cheering.

“What struck me most was the unity in the running community. Strangers sharing water or oranges, offering words of encouragement and a shared understanding of the physical and mental challenges.

Inspector Adhnan Afzal.

“It was a great community spirit and a great event.”

Adhnan, partnerships inspector at Birmingham local policing area, joined 14,000 other runners who were taking part in either the Marrakesh Half Marathon or Marathon on the day.

Organisers describe the run as among the most prestigious marathons in the world. Runners run a lap of the city that takes them alongside its 12th-Century ramparts, through the Menara Gardens, and on dusty roads lined with palm tress.

Adhnan, who has been an officer with West Midlands Police for more than 20 years, said the 28C temperature was in stark contrast to his training runs in Birmingham.

“I was determined to persevere,” he said. “I drew strength from the crowds and the cause I was running for, reminding myself that the discomfort was temporary, but the impact of the funds raised would be lasting.”

Adhnan has set up a JustGiving page if members want to support him.

Now he has his sights set on running the Istanbul Marathon event in November.

“It starts in Asia and finishes in Europe, which is unique and gives me something to aim for,” he said.