About me

Duncan Read, Founder of Fitter for Having It. A positive mindset that harnesses transferable strengths from dealing with T1D every day.

Duncan Read, Founder Fitter for having it

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‘an ordinary bloke that’s done extra-ordinary things’

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes aged 14 and grew up not wanting to be defined by a life long condition for which there is no cure.

Sport and exercise was my passion, and although its a bit harder, making that the centre of my life has improved my health and wellbeing.

Life and diabetes

Using Type 1 diabetes as a reason to run. 'I HAVE TYPE 1 DIABETES' and messages from the people who love and support me carry me through.

I’ve had a full life:

  • T1D since 1986

  • Father, husband, son, brother

  • Dexcom Warrior

  • Community Ambassador

  • Volunteer and fundraiser

  • Mentor and key note speaker

  • Certificate in Positive Psychology, USyd (2025)

  • Rio Tinto Children’s Diabetes Centre

    • Member Consumer Involvement Committee

    • Representative Scientific Sub-committee.

Sport and exercise

Duncan Read (race bib 134), Racing the Planet New Zealand, 2019. Smiling makes running easier. On Day 4 of a 6 day 250km staged ultra marathon through New Zealand. Fitter for Having It

I’ve enjoyed sport and run a long way:

  • Six marathons in six days

  • Ten ultra marathons in ten years

  • Adventure racer

  • Cycled over the Pyrenees

  • Multi day unsupported hikes

  • Junior sports coach

  • Team sport

    • Representative cricket

    • Rugby, London Division 1

    • Football, tennis, squash, rowing

Career and business

A black and white photo of a meeting room with two people. One person is sitting at a desk with a laptop and a tablet, watching a presentation on a whiteboard. The other person is standing and writing on the whiteboard, which has diagrams and notes. There is a large monitor on the wall displaying a desktop background of a rocky island.

I enjoy work:

  • Member Australian Institute of Company Directors

  • Business owner

  • Non-executive director

  • Consultant in UK, Australia, Middle East

  • Senior State Government roles

  • Project director, Senior advisor

  • Certificate in City Planning and Governance London School of Economics (2021)

  • BSc (Hons) and Dip Town Planning from Birmingham City University (UK)

Reach out

I am available to coach or discuss type 1 diabetes, exercise, and mental resilience.

Ask about one-on-one or group coaching, small team sessions, or key note talks on being #fitterforhavingit