Why Jason’s running the 2024 London Marathon for Barnardo's

What's your motivation for taking part in the London Marathon?  

“I have watched the event many times and I have always been inspired by the amazing atmosphere and the runners' determination and commitment.  

“I have been a runner for many years, usually participating in 10k races and the occasional half marathon, but the London Marathon is the ultimate running experience and I've wanted to be a part of it for years. I've applied for a place many times and this year was my lucky year!” 

Why are you supporting us?  

“I’m a teacher and have worked with young children for over 30 years. During this time, I have taught children who have been supported by Barnardo's.  

“Barnardo's provided counselling for my child and invaluable insight and guidance so that we, as a family, could understand how we could also provide support for them during challenging times.” 

What’s the best thing about being a part of Team Barnardo's? 

“I enjoyed the training day that Barnardo's hosted. I'm not a member of a running club, I don't go to the gym, and I don't have a personal trainer, so the Barnardo's training session was really helpful.  

“I picked up lots of tips about nutrition, training, fuelling, injury prevention, tapering and fundraising. The highlight of the day though was meeting my childhood hero Daley Thompson! Also, the email updates and Facebook communication has made me feel a part of a team and that I am not embarking on this challenge alone.” 

Do you have any advice for someone thinking about taking part in the London Marathon? 

“Slow and steady training is the key! When I found out back in May last year that I had been offered a place in the 2024 Marathon, I spent lots of time exploring training plans until I found one that I felt would work for me.  

“I found a 16-week plan online, adapted it to fit around my life and then started to build up a solid running base, so that by the time I needed to start my plan, I could run 10 miles.” 

Have you faced any challenges during your marathon training? 

“Ever since I suffered an injury as a child, my knees have often been an area of weakness and I always run with knee supports. During the first few weeks of my training, I fell over and landed on my knee.  

“It really hurt and I struggled to walk, let alone run. I was hopeful that a few days of rest would sort it out, but it didn't improve. I was worried that I had a serious injury or had even broken a bone, so I went to see a physiotherapist.  

“It was the best thing I could have done! Kelly was fantastic. She reassured me that I hadn't caused any major damage, gave me some exercises to strengthen the muscles around my knees and gave me some recommendations about running shoes.  

“I did the exercises, bought some new trainers and was soon back out running. Since then, I have really noticed a positive change in my knee health and my knees haven't impacted on my ability to train.” 

Why should anyone run for Barnardo's in the London Marathon? 

“At the beginning of my marathon journey, I felt daunted by the fundraising commitment, and I wondered if I would be able to manage to collect enough sponsorship on top of extensive training.  

“However, I have been lucky to receive so much support from family, friends and colleagues. There have been loads of comments about Barnardo's being a fantastic charity to raise money for and it has made me realise that I am doing something very worthwhile.”