Meet our London Marathon runner Rebecca

The London Marathon has become one of the most popular marathons in the world. The route takes in many of London’s best landmarks, including Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge. So, with the marathon just around the corner, we wanted to shine a spotlight on one of our Martin House runners, Rebecca.

Why did you choose to do the London Marathon in support of Martin House?

Martin House is a special charity close to my heart. We stayed there in January 2021 just after I had my twin girls, Amelia-Grace and Imogen. When the girls were born, Amelia-Grace had a congenital heart defect and wouldn’t survive long after birth. Martin House provided us with a home, love and support while we were a family of 5. I could never repay Martin House for the love and support they gave us and continue to give us, so the least I can do is raise as much money as possible for this wonderful charity.

Where is your favourite place to run?

My favourite place to run is around where I live, I plan routes so I can run round locally. I do this as you see people who you know who always encourage you by waving, beeping their horn, or just offering words of encouragement. When you’re on those tiring miles it makes a big difference and helps put a spring in your step. Although I once did a training run at Centre Parcs in January and that was wonderful!

What’s your favourite running music?

My running playlist has a variety of different music on it from Tina Turner, to Beyoncé, Eminem and bewitched. I love the variety. Although on my playlist I have 3 really important songs to me. True Colours, Somewhere Over the Rainbow and Purple Rain. These songs mean a lot to me as the first two were played at Amelia-Grace’s funeral and Purple Rain was played at my big brother’s funeral. These songs seem to come on just when I need them too, they give me a push when I need it most and remind me of who I’m doing this for.

Your top marathon training tip?

Remember the reason you’re doing the marathon, this will give you the push and determination you need. Relax and enjoy.

What will you be having for your pre-race breakfast?

I will be having porridge, a banana and following that with a peanut butter and jam sandwich. Plenty of fuel to try and keep my legs moving.

Have you ever run a marathon before?

I haven’t run a marathon before, but I have done half marathon’s. Also, in October 2021 I ran 10km everyday to raise money for Martin House, so that month I ran 192 miles. Surely that counts!

Rebecca is fundraising for Martin House through her JustGiving page here.

If Rebecca’s story has inspired you to sign up to Team Martin House, join us in one of our challenges this 2024.