Jon and Phil rise to virtual London marathon challenge

We all know that exercise is good for our mental as well as our physical health, and after the year we’ve had, for many of us keeping active has never been more important.

It always helps to work towards a goal, which is why Business Analyst Jon Low and Healthcare Framework Manager Phil Turley decided to take on the challenge of running the Virtual London Marathon on 4th October.

Jon had originally earned himself a ‘Good for Age’ spot for the physical race, which is usually held in April, and after an initial slump in motivation, found his daily run helped him remain on course both for the race, and as he navigated his way the challenges of furlough and lockdown.

Once he was back at work his early morning run set the tone for the day and helped make sure he remained on track as he worked his way through a new 18-week training plan.

Jon started his virtual race in wet and windy conditions, running a just under 5km loop nine times to complete his virtual challenge in a cracking 2:55:32, in the top 400 finishers.

Running is something that I use as personal therapy to help with my mental wellbeing. I just do it for the challenge and to help keep me sane.
Jon Low Business Analyst

Phil made the decision to take part in the event in late August, giving him just six weeks to train for his first ever marathon. He and his four friends decided to run for two local Herefordshire charities: Herts Young Homeless and mental health charity, MIND.

Conditions for Phil and his pals were also wet and windy, the team having to change their route several times due to flooding along the River Lea.

Phil completed his run in 4:38 and is keen to take part in a mass participation event in the future.

You can still show your support for Phil by visiting:

https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/TemplewoodRunners.

I love organised mass participation events, especially in London - running through the city streets with the crowds lining the routes certainly gives you a lift and a buzz. The virtual marathon was different, in what are challenging times, so I suppose that made it special in itself.
Phil Turley Healthcare Framework Manager