Born to run
Mohamed was so impressed with Independent Age’s work that he ran the London Marathon for us this year.
I’m a physical education teacher by qualification so, although I never worked in PE, I’ve always practised some kind of sport or physical activity, like going to the park for a walk.
But when I was approaching my 70th birthday in 2018, I wanted to mark it with a special occasion. Someone suggested running the marathon, so I said “okay”!
The idea then was just to participate. This time around, in 2023, I decided to run for Independent Age, because the charity has helped my neighbours at the retirement community in a variety of ways. It was an easy decision choosing them as my charity for the London Marathon — they do brilliant work supporting older people like me.
This might sound strange, but I didn’t find the training difficult — I always feel motivated and excited about a challenge ahead. Since 2018, I’ve run four or five half-marathons, and I did a 10k run in 56 minutes when I was 70. If you ask any runner about that time, they will tell you that that’s a feat.
I’m proud to do something for vulnerable people. It’s a privilege to help others less fortunate than we are and I’m really impressed by how Independent Age is run. I’ve represented other charities before and they just don’t care. Independent Age is different.
Create your own event!
If you’re feeling inspired to raise money to support older people in financial hardship, we’d love you to get involved and organise a fundraiser. Here are some great ideas to get you started.
Arrange a bake sale — A quick and easy way to raise money and super tasty, too! Host it at home, at work or in the local community.
Host afternoon tea — Get your nearest and dearest together over a cuppa and some delicious treats.
Organise a pub quiz — Try your local pub. Invite friends, family and colleagues to form teams. Ask for a donation as an entry fee.
Sell raffle tickets — You could organise a raffle as a fundraiser or as part of an event.
Throw a dinner party — Invite your friends over to enjoy a delicious meal. Ask guests to donate what they would spend on a typical meal out.
We have charity places in races all over the UK — from 5k runs to full marathons — plus challenges from walks to skydives. You can see all our upcoming events here or find out more by calling our events team on 020 7605 4229.
