Amateur runners raised more than £40,000 to support YMCA services at this year’s Virgin Money London Marathon, the highest figure ever for the young people’s charity.
In total, 24 people took on the 26.2 mile course for the YMCA alongside 38,000 other amateur athletes on Sunday 26 April. The total raised will go towards supporting the charity’s vital work with vulnerable young people both locally and nationally.
YMCA is the oldest and largest charity working with young people in the world and has 114 federations working across England.
Tom Truman, 24, from Sutton Coldfield, near Birmingham, was taking part in his first marathon. He completed the run in four hours and 15 minutes.
He said: “I embarked on this ‘mission’ to raise much needed funds to help young people from disadvantaged backgrounds achieve their dreams.
“The race was a harder challenge than I thought, but the crowd were amazing and we had supporters from YMCA Birmingham during the route, which gave me a boost through the pain!
“I see how the YMCA inspires and cares for people on a daily basis, and how their lives are improved – and so this thought kept me going to the finish line.”
YMCA runners ranged from first time participants to hardened athletes. A team of volunteers were stationed in Greenwich at mile six to cheer them on while, after the race, runners were treated to a well-deserved massage and refreshments at Central Hall Westminster.
David Drozdziak, YMCA England Corporate Partnerships Executive, said: “The Virgin London Marathon is one of the most famous and most popular runs of its kind in the world and we are honoured to have had so many runners take part for us this year.
“It is a special moment for anyone to cross the finishing line, not only because they have achieved something special, but also because they have helped to raise money for a charity that we know is so close to their heart.
“The money raised will support YMCA services across the UK and help us give young people the chance to play an active and fulfilling role within their community.
“If you’re interested in taking part in a sporting event to raise money for YMCA, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”
You can find out more about fundraising for YMCA England by visiting https://www.ymca.org.uk/fundraising or emailing events@ymca.org.uk.