Wilberforce Student Lucy Jones to run the London Marathon
This Sunday, Lucy Jones, a BTEC Sport, Travel and Tourism, and A-Level Media student, will take on one of the world’s most iconic challenges – the London Marathon.
But Lucy’s journey to the starting line is about much more than just the race. She is running with a deeply personal mission, one that will resonate with many. Lucy is racing in memory of her mother, Clare Jones, who passed away when Lucy was young.
On race day, Lucy will be among thousands of runners, but her story is unique. Not only will she be running in honour of her mum, but she’ll also be celebrating her 18th birthday, making her the youngest participant in the 45th edition of the London Marathon. Lucy has chosen to support Macmillan Cancer Charity, a cause close to her heart. “I picked this charity because my mum used to raise a lot of money for them, and I know she’d be happy for the donations to go there,” Lucy explained. “I’m sure she’d be proud of me for doing this.”
This won’t be Lucy’s first race dedicated to her mum’s memory. Last June, she ran the Humber 10k alongside her dad, brother, and family friends. “That race got me into running,” she said. Despite feeling like quitting, Lucy found the strength to finish, thanks to the unwavering support of her loved ones, and she’s proud to have completed it in honour of her mum.
Lucy has been using JustGiving to share her mum’s story and raise funds for the charity that supported her family during a difficult time. As the London Marathon approaches, it’s clear that this race is not only a physical challenge but a tribute to her mum—a way to keep her memory alive. “I’m really nervous, but having run a half marathon already, I know I can do this,” Lucy said. “To run in her memory, and to keep that memory alive—it’s truly amazing.”
The training Lucy has put in over the past year has given her a deeper understanding of both the physical and mental preparation required for such a challenge. She also shared how special it feels to race on her 18th birthday. “Not many people can say they ran the London Marathon on their 18th birthday. When people ask me if I’m going to do it, I just reply, ‘Yeah.'”
Colin Peaks commented, “Lucy’s determination and dedication are nothing short of inspiring. Her decision to run the London Marathon in memory of her mum, while supporting such a meaningful cause, speaks volumes about the strength of her character. We are incredibly proud of her, and regardless of the outcome, simply her participation is something to be admired. We’ll all be cheering her on every step of the way on race day, and we know she will make us all proud.”
To support Lucy and contribute to the memory of her mum, you can visit her JustGiving page here.
