Big sporting names to visit LJMU ahead of Randox Health Grand National

Feel the excitement of the Randox Health Grand National early this year, at Randox Health Week in association with Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and Liverpool Hope University.

Randox Health Week is an important vehicle to share messages concerning human healthcare. LJMU School of Sport and Exercise Sciences has developed an educational series based around health and well-being, delivered by a combination of world-leading industry and academic speakers.

The programme will focus in particular on aspects of mental health, physical activity and health diagnostics, which is particularly fitting given the nature of the Grand National sponsor’s line of work. With over 36 years’ experience in creating and manufacturing innovative and cutting-edge clinical diagnostic products, Randox Health has developed the world’s most comprehensive and personalised health check; so highly advanced that it can detect the earliest possible signs of disease even before a patient becomes symptomatic.

It is this pioneering health check from Randox Health that led to Sir Anthony McCoy being diagnosed with prediabetes. Joining Randox Health Week on Day Three, Wednesday 11 April, of the programme, the legendary jockey will lead a discussion on transforming our health behaviours from a reactive to a proactive approach.

“Prevention is always better than cure”, says founder and CEO Dr Peter FitzGerald. “Our aim is to empower people to take control of their health, to live longer and more healthy lives.

“We are delighted to be teaming up with Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Hope University as part of Randox Health Week ahead of the Randox Health Grand National. The world’s greatest race offers us the perfect platform to spread our message of preventive health for people and horses, and we look forward to sharing our knowledge with the audiences at this exciting event.”

Professor David Richardson, Director of the LJMU School of Sport and Exercise Sciences commented:

“The School of Sport and Exercise Sciences is delighted to be working with Randox Health. Our research has already had a major impact on the health and wellbeing of jockeys and reduced the occupational risk of race riding not only in the UK but throughout the world. The morning workshops are intended to raise the students’ understanding of these appropriate training protocols and techniques associated to horse riding and different sports at an elite level and the aligned health benefits. The afternoon sessions capture hot topics such as mental health, physical activity and preventative health and include an array of world leading experts, practitioners and athletes who will provide valuable insight and discussion.”

One of the most talked about health issues today is mental health, and this will be explored on day one, Monday 9th April. A highlight is a collaboration between Liverpool John Moores University’s School of Sport and Exercise Sciences and the Racing Welfare (funded by the Racing Foundation). The afternoon also includes a Q&A session with LJMU, The Racing Welfare team and special guests: professional flat jockey Franny Norton and boxer Derry Matthews.

Day two, Tuesday 10th April, turns to physical evolution of physically active cities and the challenges that we face in creating a global sport for all movement. The afternoon includes a panel discussion led by Anne Boyd, Chief Executive Officer of Active Cheshire, and Wolfgang Baumann, Secretary General for The Association for International Sport for All (TAFISA).

On the final day, attention turns to the topic of health screening, and how the right approach can deliver significant benefits. The speakers include Sir Anthony McCoy, the legendary jockey who was able to reverse prediabetes after it was caught through a health check, and Frank Cogley whose son Tim, known as the ‘King of Heswell’ died as the result of an undiagnosed heart condition. Champion boxer Paul Smith and Olympic Sailor Matt McGovern  will also take part, and the panel will be joined by Prof John Somauroo from LJMU and Dr Denise Roche of Liverpool Hope. This free event takes place in Exchange Station from 2pm.

Visit this page for further programme details, Speakers and updates