Thank you, #TeamCardiff

The University would like to express its gratitude to members of #TeamCardiff who took part in the Cardiff University/Cardiff Half Marathon for their incredible achievements in what has been a sad time.

Everyone involved has been greatly saddened by the tragic death of two runners: Ben McDonald and #TeamCardiff member Dean Fletcher (BSc 2007), a Cardiff Business School graduate.

Cardiff, both as a city and a University, played an important part in Dean's life.

After moving to the Welsh capital in 2004, he maintained a close circle of friends that he met while living in Talybont North and through his studies. After graduating he remained in the city to embark on a successful career in accountancy.

During this time he met fellow Cardiff graduate Katie (nee Punter) (BScEcon 2010), who he then married. They moved together to Exeter and started a family, with daughter Evie arriving last year.

Katie described Dean as a “fantastic husband and father” whose main drive and joy in life was his family and friends.

Professor Karen Holford (PhD 1987), Deputy Vice-Chancellor, said: “#TeamCardiff and the University community more widely has been profoundly affected by the tragic death of Dean Fletcher.

“Dean was running to help raise funds for world leading research into neuroscience and mental health: his efforts will benefit patients and families for years to come.

“His untimely death was so very sad. During such a difficult time, the unique bond and sense of community that #TeamCardiff creates has been evident.

We’ve been touched to see that many members of #TeamCardiff – along with other runners; Cardiff alumni, staff and students; and members of the public – have chosen to donate to Dean’s fundraising efforts. Thank you for your generosity.

“Thank you also for your hard work, training and dedication. It is making a huge difference – not only to our research but in helping us support each other at this time of sadness and loss.”

To date, #TeamCardiff’s 2018 cohort has raised £74,000 for cancer, neuroscience and mental health research at the University.

The University has been touched to receive many ideas and suggestions about how best to remember and celebrate Dean, and will consider these with his family in due course.