He said the challenge pushed him far beyond his comfort zone, both physically and mentally and explains more about the experience below:

“My training started off in September when I focussed on getting into better shape. I started off by doing some basic weight training to strengthen muscles and endurance. This was accompanied by runs three times a week, not based on distance but based on time.

Initially, I had no way of recording run distance until a classmate suggested an app that allowed me to record any runs completed both on open roads and on a treadmill.

I ran regularly through the winter and in January and February I focussed on adding the 'finishing touches' such as proper hydration and being able to maintain the full endurance of 13 miles plus undertaking a mock run at the start of February. 

The marathon itself was a very tough experience with it not only testing the body but the mind too. I wanted to give up at many various points, especially after another runner splashed my feet with water, which led to me getting blisters. Although, I thought of all the people I would be running this for, and it pushed me on to finish. Especially with my family, friends and neighbours showing up to support me through and give me the momentum to finish almost 30 minutes before I predicted for myself. I managed to raise £958 for pulmonary fibrosis to support my grandad that has sadly passed and anyone else that is in the situation he was in.”

The funds will go toward supporting those affected by pulmonary fibrosis, a cause deeply meaningful to the student and his family. His determination, community support, and commitment to honouring his grandad turned a difficult race into a powerful achievement.

We are so proud of his efforts, well done!

mrs twinam, CaS and internationalism coordinator