I always said I’d never run a marathon. They’re quite a long way and I’m so impatient I’d get bored easily. But then every time I go watch it I burst into tears at the atmosphere, passion and happiness on the course and in the crowds. I’ve got to experience that. So here we go.

But of course, there’s more than that.

I’m running the London Marathon for Coach Core because two of the things that have brought me the most joy in life are moving my body and building a career I love.

Running makes me excited. It makes me proud of my body - something I never thought I’d feel. It gets me out, is a welcome break from a hectic day. It’s a cool way to explore the city I live in and the places I visit. It’s hard, for sure. But what joy.

I bloody love my job. But it hasn’t always been that way. Growing up, I never really knew what kinds of jobs were out there. I remember being utterly baffled by the kinds of jobs and companies people at uni were talking about - a different world and one not for me. Coach Core helps young people kickstart careers in sport, giving them skills, confidence and real job opportunities. They believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunities often aren’t – and they’re working to change that. I want everyone to have the chance to discover what they’re good at and build a future that excites them. Because purpose matters.

Coach Core helps young people gain skills and confidence through sport, opening doors to careers they might never have imagined. Supporting them feels like a perfect way to say thank you for the happiness movement and meaningful work have brought me.

About Coach Core Foundation

Coach Core Foundation wants to know that every young person can access meaningful education and employment opportunities without barriers and discrimination.

We are helping to make that become a reality by harnessing the power of sports and apprenticeships. We take 16-24 year olds who are not in education, employment or training, and place them on a sports coaching apprenticeship. There they earn a wage, whilst securing vital qualifications and learning about the world of work - setting them up for a career filled with passion and purpose.