Vinod Patel, from Enfield, Middlesex has been recognised at the Palace of Westminster with a British Citizen Award in recognition of his extraordinary endeavours. The British Citizen Award, in partnership with One Stop, is now in its fifth year and recognises exceptional individuals who positively impact their communities throughout the country.
Vinod was honoured for his services to the community, with a BCAc, at an official medal presentation held on 23rdJanuary 2020.
72 years old Vinod,for the past 40 years has been coaching local runners. Breaking away from the original organisation he coached, as they appeared to favour only ‘good’ runners, Vin felt everyone should be given the opportunity to reach their full potential, so started his own group called ‘Freedom Runners’.
Vin coaches a group of runners of all ages, sizes, nationalities and abilities. The group has just welcomed their youngest member who is pushed up and down in her buggy every Saturday morning by Vin, so her mum can run with the group. Some of the group run to keep fit and healthy, others to enjoy the social interaction and some take part in races all over the world. Vin treats everyone the same regardless.
The coaching Vin contributes is completely free, with total inclusivity.
