On Sunday 23rd April, Chance for Childhood’s incredible team of marathon runners will take to London’s roads and after more than a year of training, we can’t wait to see them in action on the day.
One of our team this year is Joshua Lacey, who is running his first marathon! He spoke to us about his motivations, training, and challenges in the build up to the big day.
What motivated you to run your first marathon?
To do something extraordinary and challenging while raising money for such a great cause in ‘Chance for Childhood’. Having newly founded a business, I felt it was important to give back by pledging my own funds towards a greater good.
Why did you want to run it for Chance for Childhood?
Chance for Childhood has an incredible plan for improving the quality of life for children in vulnerable situations, and their well-structured blueprint for growth is truly inspiring. How could I not want to support such a cause?
How is your training going?
Training is great, running in an area with lots of incline so hoping come Marathon day I’ll have the advantage! Consistently building up milage, gaining more and more confidence as the weeks pass by.
If you’re able, dare yourself to be great, dust off the running shoes and just go for it.
What are you finding most challenging about preparing for your first marathon?
The mental preparation and training, especially when motivation wanes. However, the fundraising aspect reminds me of the bigger picture and fuels me to push through my training, knowing that it’s all for a greater good.
What do you find most rewarding about training for the marathon?
The support from friends, family, and the fantastic team at Chance for Childhood has been incredibly rewarding. It’s like being part of a community that cheers me on during my training, both with their words and through their donations. It constantly reminds me of the more significant impact I’m making.
What message would you give to those thinking about running a marathon for charity?
Just go for it! It’s a chance to challenge yourself physically and mentally and make a difference in the world. If you have the opportunity, dare yourself to be great and make a real impact through your hard work and determination.
If you’re able, dust off the running shoes and go for it!
What are you most looking forward to about the marathon?
Taking all the hard work and dedication from months of training and giving it my all to show myself that what was once just an idea a few months ago can become a reality with the right determination and motivation fueling the fire.
Tell us about your fundraising and what has worked well for you in raising sponsorship.
Mainly directly tailored messages, reaching out to someone personally, adding a direct message per request has worked well for me in attaining some of the more significant donations. I’ve also been posting regularly on social media to give my friends and family the option to donate at a time that works best for them.
Feeling motivated to take up running but not quite prepared for a marathon? Why not consider joining us for London’s Big Half?
