A runner who thought his marathon-running days were over when he was diagnosed with a heart condition achieved his personal best at the TTP Cambridge Half Marathon.  

Philip Scurrah, from Burwell, ran the event on March 3 as part of his training for the TCS London Marathon, which he had to defer last year due to his illness.

Proudly holding his medal, Philip said: “This time last year, I had a blocked right coronary artery and thought my running days were truly over.  

“However, thanks to the wonders of modern science, the team at Royal Papworth Hospital and the stent they fitted in my heart, I managed to finish the race at the age of 54 years in a personal best official time of 1 hour 49 minutes and 54 seconds.  

“I am now looking forward to my next challenge of completing the London Marathon.” 

Ely Standard: Philip Scurrah achieved his personal best at the TTP Cambridge Half Marathon on March 3. Philip Scurrah achieved his personal best at the TTP Cambridge Half Marathon on March 3. (Image: Philip Scurrah)Philip took up running several years ago and ran the London Marathon for the first time in 2022 and was among the lucky few to get a ballot place for the following year.  

But in January 2023, he suddenly felt extremely breathless during a training run and had to stop straight away.  

Until he had the stent fitted, he continued to experience severe breathlessness just even walking up and down the stairs. 

The experience, as well as losing his mum Glennis to a heart condition when she was aged 68, has inspired Philip to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation at the London marathon on April 21, 2024. 

Ely Standard: British Heart Foundation runners at a previous TCS London Marathon. Philip will be running the marathon for the charity in April.British Heart Foundation runners at a previous TCS London Marathon. Philip will be running the marathon for the charity in April. (Image: British Heart Foundation)Gary Atyes, Fundraising Manager for the British Heart Foundation, said: “It's great to hear that Philip is feeling so well and has been able to return to running so quickly. 

“We’re very grateful for his support as the money he raises will enable scientists to look for new breakthroughs that can save and improve lives in the future.” 

To donate towards Philip’s London Marathon effort visit www.heartbeat.mobi.