Running for Laughter. Running for Hope. Running for Children.

In 2026, two young men will stand on the iconic London Marathon start line with 26.2 miles ahead of them — but they won’t be running just for the medal.

They’ll be running for children who need joy the most.

We are incredibly honoured to have been awarded two London Marathon 2026 charity places, and even more proud of the runners who have stepped forward to take on this extraordinary challenge for The Laughter Specialists.

Meet Our Runners

Tommy Clark is no stranger to the London Marathon. Having taken on this monumental challenge before, Tommy knows exactly what it demands — the discipline, the doubt, the pain, and the triumph. Yet he has chosen to do it all over again, driven by something bigger than himself: the belief that every child deserves moments of happiness, confidence, and laughter — no matter what life has thrown their way.

Dan Joannou will be running his very first marathon. For Dan, this journey is about pushing personal limits and turning determination into purpose. Taking on 26.2 miles for the first time is no small feat — but knowing the difference it will make to vulnerable children gives every mile meaning.

Together, Tommy and Dan are running not just as athletes, but as advocates for joy.

Why They’re Running

The Laughter Specialists exists because laughter is not a luxury — it’s a lifeline.

Every day, we work with vulnerable children who are facing challenges no child should have to face alone. Children who may be living with trauma, illness, disability, anxiety, loss, or instability. Children whose lives are often defined by appointments, assessments, uncertainty, or fear.

Through carefully designed, inclusive laughter-based sessions, we help children:

• Reconnect with joy and play

• Build confidence and emotional resilience

• Feel seen, valued, and understood

• Experience positive human connection in a safe, supportive way

Laughter opens doors that words often can’t. It creates moments where children can simply be children again — free, expressive, and empowered.

The Impact of Your Support

Funds raised through this campaign will help us continue and expand our work — reaching more children who desperately need moments of light during difficult times. Your support enables us to deliver meaningful experiences that foster wellbeing, confidence, and hope long after the laughter has faded.

Every donation helps turn miles into smiles.

Every step our runners take helps a child feel less alone.

Every pound raised helps us bring joy where it’s needed most.

Join Us on the Journey

As Tommy and Dan train, push through tough miles, and stand on the start line in April 2026, they carry the hopes of the children we support — and the generosity of everyone who believes in the power of laughter.

Please support them if you can.

Cheer them on.

Share their story.

And help us keep laughter alive for the children who need it most.

Together, we can change lives — one laugh, one step, one mile at a time.