YMCA runners reflect on London Marathon success

A team of runners who took part in this year’s London Marathon in aid of YMCA Derbyshire have been reflecting on the experience – and raising thousands of pounds for the charity.

Last month Gillian Sewell, the chief executive of YMCA Derbyshire, Dean Jackson, founder of elite sportswear brand HUUB, YMCA youth ambassador Matt Sewell and Rachel Fulton, of The Fulton Partnership – owner of The Pepperpot restaurant – took part in the iconic event.

All of them went the full 26.2-mile distance – and were among the 59,830 finishers – a Guinness World Record.

To date, the team has raised more than £18,000 from their efforts, which will support YMCA Derbyshire’s work.

Reflecting on her London Marathon experience, Rachel said: “Running the London Marathon was the most phenomenal experience and better than I could ever have imagined.

“The energy is electric and the challenge is immense but the crowds cheering every runner on, make the whole day.

“So many people running for causes so close to their hearts; I was thrilled to be helping the YMCA and the incredible work that they do. Thanks so much for the opportunity to run for you and sign me up for next year.”

Matt said: “I have been connected to YMCA Derbyshire for years. Being given the opportunity to run the London Marathon to raise funds for a YMCA I have grown up around, worked and volunteered at, was an absolute honour.”

Speaking about her reasons for taking part, Gillian, who is stepping down from her role as chief executive of YMCA Derbyshire, said: “Reason one was it has been on my bucket list for a while…but reason two is I have served YMCA for 35 years, and this is my retirement gift to them.”

As well as saluting the efforts of the team, the charity has also paid tribute to those who travelled to London to show their support.

In a statement, YMCA Derbyshire said: “Team Derby was out in force. It was incredible to see so many people from Derby taking part.

“Our runners were quite literally side by side with members of their own community, and along the route, they spotted colleagues and friends cheering them on from the sidelines.”