Countrywide supermarket chain The Co-operative Food reported that super
competitive mums and dads, taking part in Parents’ Races are helping to
create a boom in sales of bandages and painkillers.
So desperate are they to win that many go too far, pulling muscles, falling
over and injuring themselves, says the retailer.
Some parents now insist on taking part in what used to be a fun event wearing
full sports gear, including shorts, vest and spiked running shoes.
Sales of painkillers, including analgesics, bandages, and plasters rocket by
almost 50 per cent during the months of June and July when school sports
days are at their peak, says The Co-operative. Torn muscles, sprained
ankles, cuts and bruises are just some of the common ailments suffered.
Scott Shaw, The Co-operative Food medicine buyer said yesterday: “It’s much
more than just a race. Seeing just how competitive grown up mums and dads
can be is quite an education.
“But pushing yourself too far can often result in a very painful lesson for
parents. Everyone has a natural desire to prove to themselves that they are
still strong and fit, despite sitting in front of a computer all day.
Unfortunately, in many cases, while the spirit is willing the body is weak.â€