Why on earth are Dean Jackson MBE and Gillian Sewell running the London Marathon?

(…and why you absolutely should sponsor them)

When most people hit a “certain age,” they celebrate with a nice quiet weekend, a pair of comfy slippers, or maybe a gentle stroll that definitely doesn’t require months of training. But not our dynamic duo. No, they looked Father Time squarely in the eye and said, “You know what? Let’s run 26.2 miles instead.

Gillian Sewell

A legend in Derbyshire who has spent over 30 years creating opportunities for young people, building homes, transforming communities, and creating a vibrant local YMCA. Former star of Derby's Unstrictly dance competition, Gillian doesn’t do things halfway. Even when the “thing” is 26.2 miles long and Couch to 5K was her Everest just a few months ago.

She led on the creation of life-changing services like Key College, Y Kidz and Foundry Point transitional housing for young people. She’s retiring this year; most people would choose a party and a holiday. Gillian chose the marathon. Because of course she did.

Dean Jackson

Sports-industry trailblazer. Founder and head of HUUB. Holder of a brand new MBE. After building a global brand, collecting world records and shaping how athletes perform, Dean has decided it’s his turn to take on a challenge that can’t be solved with aerodynamics alone. Apparently, you can’t “streamline” your way around the Embankment at mile 22—but he’s going to try anyway.

So why are they running?

Because YMCA Derbyshire is home to young people who refuse to give up. It’s also a safe and welcoming space for families and individuals to get support when times are tough.

Because every mile they run supports housing, stability, education, family services and a thriving community in Derby.

Dean says: “Having witnessed the inner workings of the YMCA I was privileged to see the differences they make in the city where I grew up. I know the marathon will not be easy … but I just felt so compelled to help and I know the effort will be worth it”

They’re running to show what resilience looks like.

They’re running to raise vital funds.

They’re running because, apparently, neither has discovered the joys of simply sitting down.

Sponsor them. Cheer for them. Question their judgement?

But most importantly—support the young people whose futures will be brighter and communities that will stand taller thanks to our dynamic duo!

Of course there's still an opportunity for businesses to get in on the action, with a logo on the t-shirts of our dream team. Please contact fundraising@ymcaderbyshire.org.uk for brand sponsorship and help put a buzz into Derby!