A reason to run 🏃‍♂️

Tom Brown

Have you always been interested in running?

“I started running during the first Covid lockdown. Because I couldn’t play cricket, I had to find something to get through the summer. I started small and before I knew it, I was running 10km routes regularly. Then I just couldn’t stop running after work and got very fit, to the point I was running with a weighted rucksack on.”

Have you run a marathon before?

“The furthest I have run at the moment is 25km, which is in a training programme I am doing. It’s a bit daunting knowing I’ve got to run 42.2km, but I am relishing the challenge!”

What is your motivation for running for World Horse Welfare?

“The charity means a great deal to me personally. My fiancée is a senior groom at World Horse Welfare’s Hall Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Norfolk and has worked for the charity for over seven years. In that time, I’ve seen first-hand the impact the charity’s work has — not just on horses, but on the people who care for them.

“The stories and images she’s shared of neglected horses are often heart-breaking but hearing how those same horses go on to find loving new homes is truly inspiring. The dedication, time and care that goes into nursing these animals back to health is nothing short of remarkable.

“I think any charity that helps animals deserves recognition and as much support as possible.”

How is training going ahead of the big day?

“Training isn’t going too bad; in fact, I’m rather enjoying it! I’m covering long distances on Sundays with shorter runs in the week. The furthest I’ve run so far is 25km, with 27km the plan for this coming Sunday. Hopefully it stays dry! I’m enjoying finding routes to run along and getting out in the fresh air!

“It’s not long to go now and I’m very excited for the day.

“By supporting my marathon journey, you’ll be helping World Horse Welfare continue to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome horses who deserve a second chance at life. Every donation, big or small, will make a real difference. Thank you so much for your support — and wish me luck on race day!”

Chloe Lemieux

Tell us a bit about yourself…

“Hi! I’m Chloe, I’m 19 years old and I’ve always been much more comfortable in the saddle than in running shoes! I’m an international show jumper and have been around horses all of my life. I’ve never considered myself a runner, so this whole marathon experience is definitely out of my comfort zone but I’m looking forward to the challenge. Especially for a cause that means so much to me.”

Have you always been interested in running?

“Not at all! I’ve always admired people who could run long distances, but I never thought I’d be one of them. My idea of cardio usually involves riding or mucking out stables! But I wanted to push myself and do something I’ve never done before. The marathon felt like an incredible opportunity and to be able to do it for a charity we support as a family and business makes it even better!”

What is the furthest you have run before?

“In the past, the furthest I’d ever run was 5km! I attended a few park runs with my friends for some fun and to stay on top of my fitness for riding. More recently, I’ve slowly built up my distance to 10km and completed some races. I love fitness and the gym and go most days. This has really helped build my strength and discipline for running. I really am so new to this long-distance running malarkey, but I’m looking forward to it!”

What made you decide to run the London Marathon for World Horse Welfare?

“World Horse Welfare is a charity very close to my heart. Their work supporting horses in need – whether through rescue, rehabilitation or education – is so important. As someone who knows how much horses give to us, it feels only right to give something back.

“Our wonderful, rehomed Shetland, Lemon, is a World Horse Welfare rescue. She has given us so much joy and happiness and plays a big part in my motivation to run the marathon for World Horse Welfare. We can’t thank the charity enough for everything they did for her and for continuing to help many other horses in need. Running the marathon is my way of helping raise awareness and funds to support the charity’s incredible work.”

How is training going ahead of the big day?

“Training is going really well and I’m starting to feel the progress week by week. Last weekend I completed my first 15km run which felt great and gave me a real confidence boost. This weekend I’m stepping it up to 18km, before attempting my first half marathon in a few weeks’ time. It’s definitely a challenge fitting everything around a busy life, but I’m loving the process and feeling very excited for the rest of the training and, of course, race day at the London Marathon — all in support of World Horse Welfare!” 

Freya Donovan

What made you decide to run the London Marathon for World Horse Welfare?

“I decided to run the London Marathon for World Horse Welfare because I wanted to set myself a personal challenge. All while supporting a cause that means a great deal to me.

“I’ve always loved horses and have owned two of my own, so their welfare is something I’m really passionate about. Running the marathon felt like the perfect way to push myself and give back to a charity that works so hard to protect horses around the world.”

Have you always been interested in running?

“No, running is completely new to me and the furthest I have run before is 5k! Training ahead of the big day has definitely been a challenge so far but I’m pushing through and running three times a week.

“Any donations will make a huge difference and help World Horse Welfare continue their amazing work. Your support means the world – to me and to countless horses who rely on this charity.”

How is training going ahead of the big day?

“Training has been a lot harder than I anticipated. As someone who hasn’t properly run before, it has proved challenging. Currently, I am running up to five miles and trying to increase by a mile or two each week. I am excited but equally nervous for the day, as I know it’s going to be super tough, but also a great achievement I will never forget. I always remind myself I am doing it for the horses!”

Tilly Gill

Have you always been interested in running?

“I have run ever since school and always loved it, but this will be my first marathon! Before training started for the London Marathon, the furthest I had ever run was 12km – not even a third of the full 42.2km distance!”

What made you decide to run the London Marathon for World Horse Welfare?

“I have always had a passion for horses and have ridden since I was seven. World Horse Welfare is a charity close to my heart as an equestrian and lifelong horse lover. I wanted to give something back to help the horses who are unfortunate enough to have not found themselves in the loving home they deserve.

“The charity’s work to rescue, rehabilitate and protect horses around the world is nothing short of inspiring. I’d love your support in helping them continue it.”

How is training going ahead of the big day?

“Training is going well despite some shin splints meaning I had to miss a week’s training. I have joined a gym to help with motivation when the lovely British weather is doing its thing outside.

“This marathon will be a huge personal challenge. In February 2025, a gym injury forced me to stop running entirely. To prepare for the marathon, I started from scratch. So yes – it’s going to be tough. There will be sore legs, setbacks and self-doubt. But I’m determined to give it everything I’ve got because the cause is worth it. Because horses deserve better. And because I want to cross that finish line on April 26th, 2026 not just for myself, but for every horse this charity helps.

“I might enter a half marathon race in March to help keep me moving! I also have a 20-mile race booked in for the end of March before I hit the pre-marathon taper.

“Exciting but terrifying times ahead! I was definitely a 5km runner before this and am looking forward to returning to my comfort blanket post marathon!

“Your support – whether it’s a donation, a share or just cheering me on – means the world to me. Together, we can make a difference for the horses who have no voice. Here’s to the miles ahead, the ups and downs of training and that unforgettable victory lap. Let’s do this – for the love of horses!”