The MVA's Famous 5 take on the 2026 London Marathon!

For some, its a first marathon. For others, its more of wanting to experience 26.2 miles of awesomeness again!!

The MVA Society (www.mvasociety.org) is the first and only organisation in the world to focus research into this ultra-rare condition. In doing so, we will find a treatment for this condition and prevent related cancers! So, this is a big deal!

Such projects are not a sprint! They are a marathon! So, like our 5 budding athletes, its simply a question of one step at a time, grit your teeth and get cracking!

Here's a short note from each of them....

Julian Young - the Kings Lynn Flyer!

Despite the fact I have maintained for many years that running a marathon ‘ can not be good for you & I would never run one’ how could I say no when Mr Bracey, the MVA Society, and at the centre of it all, lovely George, give me the opportunity to run the London Marathon. In addition to raising funds for the MVA Society and Children with Cancer UK, I will be using the marathon and all the training it entails to help me focus on positivity and wellbeing following the death of my eldest son Felix in 2022 aged 18. When I am running, I think about Felix a lot, usually asking him for some energy or a motivating sign. Clearly, he will be in demand over the coming months, and I know the actual 26 miles through London will be fuelled by emotion. Please do give generously to these fabulous charities and to remember Felix.

Scott Healy - the Dashing new Dad!

Initially meeting Jonathan as a client, I have worked, travelled, golfed, and socialised with Jonathan and the Bracey family for the last decade and considers them, and of course the incredible George as great friends. I am incredibly proud to be a Trustee of The MVA Society and grateful to be running the marathon for both The MVA Society and Children with Cancer.

While reasonably fit an active, I’m not built physically or mentally for distance running as I generally get bored approaching 10k so while the training is going to undoubtedly be a challenge, it’s going to be hard to get bored on the big day so only looking forward to that.

I am also unapologetically using the marathon milestone to force myself to stay somewhat fit through the first 6 months of being a new father!!

John Soanes - one of OAs finest!

16 days short of my 53rd birthday, I will attempt to run my first marathon, which is a daunting thought. I've known Jonathan for several years as we used to play rugby together, and when he explained what George has been through, and the challenges that he faces in the future, I thought that I had to try and help. As a Father of two boys, I am also very aware of how hard things will have been for Jon and Rachel, and admire them very much for not only looking after George, but also for setting up the MVA Society with a view to helping other families in a similar position.

A cruciate ligament injury made me hang up my rugby boots, and a few years afterwards I started running. Both of my parents were diagnosed with terminal cancer, and I found that running really helped me mentally. I think most people come into contact with cancer at some point in their life, and we are not surprised when older people get it. However the thought of children having cancer is terrible, and I am very proud to be able to raise money for both the MVA Society and Children with Cancer UK. I can't say I will enjoy the training through the winter months, or the inevitable aches and pains. Hopefully, I'll stay injury free and will be able to cross the line in April - and maybe I might actually enjoy it!!

Roberto Keel - the Italian Stallion!

Running, pasta and beer....my ideal combination! Looking forward to it and supporting the MVA Society and my God Son, George!

JB - the old man of the team!

Its that time of year again….and Im lucky enough to have a place again in this amazing race! Its one of my highlights of the year….26 miles of cheering crowds and adrenaline-fueled runners! I love it. The atmosphere is out of this world! It’s a privilege to be running for the MVA Society again – a charity so very close to my heart as our gorgeous little boy, George was diagnosed with this ultra-rare condition back in 2023. We are making really great progress with the research we have started. Funding further research though is key to finding that all-important treatment that we are seeking….so, charity fund-raisers like this are core to what we are all about! I cant wait….see you on the course or in Shepherds Market for the after-party!!