Andy Drozdziak
CAFOD is celebrating after its supporters raised over £58,000 in the London marathon for the Catholic charity.
Motivational speaker David Wells, who confessed before the race to having ‘dodgy knees’, spoke of finishing the marathon on 21st April as ‘a life-enhancing moment’.
“I loved the day. I didn’t want to walk and I managed to keep running. I’m sat here feeling very grateful to CAFOD for making this accessible for us, for supporting us through it all, and for giving us a life-enhancing moment. I will never forget it,” he said.
Prior to the race, David Wells, the author of popular Catholic books The Reluctant Disciple and The Grateful Disciple, said he had ‘two dodgy knees and a calf with more knots than a sailor’s dinghy.’ He underlined the support he received during the marathon, saying: “All your support throughout this adventure has been for me really helpful and significant. I never really felt on my own.”
Over 50,000 people took part this year, with Race director Hugh Brasher predicting that the marathon would raise more money for charity than any single-day event in history. Overall, 17 runners took part for CAFOD, including Anthony, who commented on the ‘amazing support.’
“What an awesome day,” he said. “Gutted I didn’t break four hours, but seeing CAFOD and my family at mile 16 was the biggest lift I had all day. The support from the team has been amazing and I’m so proud of all of us.”
Joan reflected on the incredible team spirit shown by this year’s runners. She said: “Thank you for selecting me to run for CAFOD. Thank you for your support and encouragement – you made this journey amazing. Congratulations team and thank you for your tips and encouragement. We did it!”
CAFOD paid tribute to the efforts of all those who ran for the charity, saying: “It was beautiful to see 17 runners complete the London Marathon while showing incredible commitment and solidarity to do it as part of #TeamCAFOD. You were amazing and thanks for doing it in support of our work.”