By Jean Hollings
15th August 2022 was a sad day for Grant Chakas’ family, friends and work colleagues.
At only 43 years old he died suddenly, leaving his wife and a young family of three children.
Grant was at his happiest with his family and friends, showing and demonstrating to people in Bramley how to cook and eat healthily.
Yacine Sahel (Yaz) was so affected by Grant’s death he felt he had to do something to commemorate Grant’s life and to support his young family.
As a runner with Bramley Breezers he decided to come out of retirement from long-distance running to complete a 43km run – with 1km for Grant’s birthday.
After discussion with Grant’s wife, his family and Greggs Bakery – where they both worked – it was decided the run will be on Sunday, 18 September.
Yaz will start at 8am at Pure Gym, Bramley where Grant initially took ill. Yaz will finish at around 12noon at Greggs Bakery.
The route will be going to Morley via the ring road then Dewsbury Road, into the city centre past the hospital where Grant died, then along the canal to Rodley Barge and turning left to Farsley police station. He will then go left into Stanningley Road, then left into Broad Lane and finally two laps of Bramley parkrun to give chance for people to join on the short distance back to the bakery where Grant worked.
If you see him en route please spur him on by clapping and cheering.
Members of Bramley Breezers will also be joining him on the route. Local cheerleaders have also stated they’ll be supporting him too.
Dean Ward, a friend to them both has offered to be Yaz’s support vehicle for refreshments and water.
Greggs bakery has kindly offered to provide refreshments at the finish line.
Yaz has set up a gofundme page for anyone wishing to donate.
There will also be a fundraising event at the next clothing exchange at Bramley Community Centre on 8 October.