London Marathon legends!
Sunday 2 October marked the 42nd TSC London Marathon, where 53 sensational Shooting Star Children’s Hospices runners took to the streets to take on the iconic route, raising £118,500 and counting, for their local children’s hospice charity.
Avoiding any train woes due to the strikes, our terrific Team Shooting Star runners arrived together via our team coaches, giving them plenty of time to get their minds and bodies race ready.
The team, which included members of families who are supported by Shooting Star Children’s Hospices, long-term supporters, community and corporate supporters, staff, first-timers and serial marathoners, were celebrated and encouraged along the route by our cheering squads at the halfway mark of Tower Bridge and on the final miles at Embankment.
Our fastest Shooting Star Children’s Hospices runner was Michael Krayenhoff, who completed the 26.2 miles in an amazing 3 hours 16 minutes.
Michael said, “It’s been a great honour to run for Shooting Star Children’s Hospices. We thought it was set to rain but it turned out a beautiful day and there were so many crowds cheering. The last 2km were very tough and I was thinking ‘are you going to walk?” and I was like no push on!”
The phenomenal amount of money raised will go to providing our vital care and support to families across Surrey and west London.
At both cheer points our supporter and volunteers were joined by some family and friends to cheer their loved ones on, much to the delight of the team as they passed.
2022 London Marathon marked the fifth time Arthur Simmons took on the 26.2 miles, this time dressed as everyone’s favourite ogre Shrek. Arthur, who completed it in 4 hours and 10 minutes, was running in memory of his son Ted, who was supported by the charity.
Arthur said, “The cheer points at Tower Bridge and Embankment are amazing, they really get you going and keep you going – it’s a real highlight. I love being part of Team Shooting Star, it’s being part of something bigger than yourself, raising money for a charity that do incredible things for families and children who really need their support.”
Eileen Wright, who completed this year’s marathon in 4 hours 55 minutes said, “it’s an absolutely phenomenal experience, London is the best place, the crowds are amazing and I urge anyone to sign up and sign up to support Shooting Star Children’s Hospices because you won’t be supported by a better charity – do it, do it, do it!”
Inspired by our Team Shooting Star marathon marvels? Why not enter 2023 ballot – it’s now open until this Friday 7 October. You can also apply for one of our charity places and be part of the best marathon team around! We hope to be cheering you on next April!