Ian’s London Marathon Challenge

“This was not my first rodeo. In fact, this was the third time I’ve tackled the London Marathon, and I was pondering which charity to support when I sadly found out that Russell had died.”

You’ve got to use the opportunity to do some good, because that is what makes it such a unique and wonderful event.

Ian Williams

“I’ve always been a huge sports fan and I’m very active in my everyday life, and having run the London Marathon before, I knew what to expect and how to prepare.

“I knew if I didn’t train then the experience would be unpleasant. Unlike previous years, I employed an online running coach who helped me create a six-month plan. In total, I was running two to three times a week, including long runs on the weekend and regular strength sessions in the gym.

“It all meant I was nicely prepared for the big day and I surprised myself with how strong I felt, and finished with a more-than-respectable 3 hours 21 minutes.

“While I do enjoy the competitiveness of running, the really great thing about the London Marathon is the event itself.

“I have seen it from all sides: runner, spectator and journalist, which gives you a great perspective. For one day, the whole mood of the city changes and it feels so positive. The memories of lost loved ones and friends hang almost tangibly in the air, like they are running alongside us. And each person, 50,000 of us, are all playing our small part, along with the fervent support.”

Why I supported Winston’s Wish

Having grown up in Sidcup in south east London, Ian has lived and worked in various places across England. Now specialising in African sport, his career has allowed him to travel to some of the world’s biggest events, such as the Olympics, Paralympics and football’s European Championship. It was through journalism, and a shared love of sport, that he met and worked with Russell.

“As soon as I heard the news that Russ had died, I knew I was going to run the London Marathon for him. He was a lovely guy and would always greet me heartily whenever we saw one another.

“I even worked in the same newsroom where he met his wife Rachel, but we hadn’t spoken for many years. I found myself calling her about the death of her husband from the side of a pool in Ivory Coast where I was covering the Africa Cup of Nations.

“It was a strange occasion that will stay with me for a long time, but through that conversation I found out about Winston’s Wish. Rachel suggested the charity because it had provided support for her and the children.”

So many friends and former colleagues of Russ’ were generous enough to donate, send their support and share tales of Russ. Some I didn’t even know, but Rachel told me after the race how much that display of love meant to her as well. I was pleased I was able to do that for the both of them

Ian Williams

Fundraising for Winston’s Wish

Keen to raise as much as he could, Ian set about using his knowledge and connections within the industry to support Winston’s Wish.

“As someone who is not normally a big user of social media, I embraced the platforms to share videos of my training and encouraged others, including Rachel, to share posts and do their own.

“I emailed people at work, contacting former colleagues and places that Russ and I had worked together. Through that, I managed to get myself on-air at talkSPORT on the Hawksbee and Jacobs afternoon show, where we all chatted about Russell a week or so before the marathon.

“I had a running shirt with Russ’ picture created. That was a great image to share on socials, especially when Rachel and Russ’ kids held it up.

“My advice to those fundraising – start early and don’t be afraid to spam people!

“I’m pleased to have played my part and to have helped Winston’s Wish, but I also take pride in having been part of the world’s biggest display of altruism.”

Feel inspired by Ian’s London Marathon challenge?

Has Ian’s London Marathon challenge inspired you to take on a fundraising challenge? Then look no further.

With running events happening throughout the UK this year, you can find your perfect challenge. Head over to our running events to find your next run.