Keeping Charity Running

Last month I ran my first half marathon. It was not the typical London Landmarks experience - I've been told. Firstly, because I ran it in my home town, Portsmouth - which lacks the Landmarks promised by the shiny brochure that drew me in. And secondly, because I ran it alone. No cheering supporters and no runners by my side. I overtook a couple of elderly couples out on their daily walks (remaining a safe social distance apart) and listened out for announcements from Strava through my headphones as I approached each km.

The run took me 1:56:43 and I was delighted to have Broken 2.0 - only to realise I'd stopped 0.8km short of a half marathon, a glitch I'm sure that would't occur at the real thing. I ran the last stretch, but having already ended my run on Strava, I have no idea if I did indeed go 'Sub-2' (I'll have to invest in some Vaporflys for next time to make sure).

While the running was a struggle, the greater struggle, has been raising the funds for my charitable place in the event. I feel awkward at the best of times asking people for money, and during a global pandemic when the event didn't "really" take place, that sentiment is doubled. However, it seems I am not alone, charities are reporting the catastrophic effects that the cancellation of events is having on them. Collectively culminating in the loss of billions in income through fundraising events.

The Virgin Money London Marathon alone, which should have taken place today, Sunday 26 April, is the world’s biggest one-day fundraising event (It raised more than ￡66m for charities in 2019). As a result, many of these charities have had to reduce or stop services at a time when vulnerable members of society need them most; thousands of staff have been placed on furlough and many charities will not survive the next few months.

However, there is something being done about it. The 2.6 Challenge has been put together by the organisers of some of the UK's biggest mass participation sports events - including the London Marathon. The premise of the challenge is easy. It is a call to action to raise money to help these struggling charities. People can do any activity they like that incorporates the number 26 – from running 2.6 miles to holding an online workout with 26 friends (while safely social distancing).

I don't care if you donate to my chosen charity or the endless list of other charities that are out there doing an amazing job. I simply hope that this article will help to increase the awareness of the threat being posed to so many wonderful charitable organisations. Here is a link to the 2.6 Challenge website. And here is a link to my Just Giving page, if you do want to donate to the great work my chosen charity, Guide Dogs, are doing. Thank you.