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Chasing Dad’s 2:53:43 | London Marathon for Phoenix

Sheldon Ford is raising money for Phoenix Enterprises

London Marathon 2027 - Sunday · 25 April 2027 · Start fundraising for this event

Our amazing runners are taking on the 2027 London Marathon for Phoenix! Every pound raised helps us provide a safe, supportive community where adults with learning disabilities and mental health conditions can build skills and confidence.

Story

Running the London Marathon for Phoenix Enterprises 💙

My Dad ran a marathon in 2:53:43. It’s a time that’s been hanging over me for years. In 2027, I’m taking on the London Marathon to see if I can get close — while raising £2,000 for Phoenix Enterprises.

Why am I running?

I’m a mainstream secondary school teacher, so supporting young people is a big part of my everyday life. That includes working with children with special educational needs, and I’ve seen how much it matters for people to feel supported, included and valued.

That’s one of the reasons I’m so pleased to be running for Phoenix Enterprises.

Phoenix is a Swindon charity supporting adults with learning disabilities and mental health conditions. It offers much more than somewhere to work. It provides meaningful activities, friendship, support and a real sense of belonging.

For some people, Phoenix is their main source of regular social contact. It helps them build confidence, learn new skills and feel connected to their community.

Last year, 107 adults spent more than 13,500 hours at Phoenix, with 75% saying it helped them feel less lonely, make friends and feel part of a community.

That’s something worth running 26.2 miles for.

The personal challenge

I’m not just aiming to finish the marathon. I want to see how quickly I can run it.

My dad’s marathon time of 2:53:43 has always been in the back of my mind. It’s a time I’ve thought about for years, and I’d love to get as close to it as I can.

I know it’s a big target, but that’s what makes it exciting. I’m ready to put in the training, deal with the tired legs and see what I can achieve on the streets of London.

Having Phoenix behind me will give every mile an extra sense of purpose.

Please support me

My fundraising target is £2,000, and every donation, however big or small, will help Phoenix continue supporting the people who rely on its services.

Whether you donate £5, £10 or more, you’ll be helping a brilliant local charity and giving me even more motivation during the training and on race day.

Thank you so much for your support. I’ll be giving it everything I’ve got!

💙 26.2 miles. £2,000 for Phoenix. And hopefully a time I can be proud of.

Donation summary

Total
£420.00
+ £105.00 Gift Aid
Online
£420.00
Offline
£0.00

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