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An 85-Year-Old Runner Has Been Chosen To Be One Of The Faces Of The New Adidas Ad

March 31, 2023

An 85 year old grandmother from Manchester, England, has just been chosen to be one of the faces of a new Adidas advert.

Barbara Thackray / Credit: St Ann's Hospice, Greater Manchester

Barbara Thackray is one of the stars of adidas' new running campaign after she was scouted by the brand for her incredible running achievements.

The 85-year-old grandmother took up running eight years ago to raise money for St Ann's Hospice. Her late sister Audrey was a patient at the hospice and wanted to give back.

"It is vital they are able to continue the wonderful support and care they give for people for many more years, just like they did for my sister in 1988," Thackray said.

Barbara Thackray / Credit: St Ann's Hospice, Greater Manchester

Barbara says she is glad she found running at the age of 77 as it is something that is keeping her fit.

When asked if she'd seen the new Adidas ad, Barbara told the BBC she had "only seen it vaguely".

"So long as they [Adidas] were prepared to make a significant donation to St Ann's Hospice, I felt okay about it," she added.

Earlier this month, Barbara completed the Run North West Trafford 10k run where she was the only runner in the 80+ category. In front of her 20 proud family members, she achieved a personal best time of 85 minutes.

Watch the advert below.