University of Sussex staff member sets himself the challenge of completing three marathons in six weeks to raise funds for the Martlets Hospice in Hove.
MARK RAVEN, who is the University’s Head of Research Finance, completed his first marathon in 2011. He has since run several other marathons both in the UK and overseas, including a 30-mile ultramarathon in December 2017.
Mark says: “It’s a real challenge to run a marathon, but that sense of achievement and buzz you get when you finish is just amazing. There’s also something really special about being in a large group of people who are all trying to reach the finish line.”
This year he has set himself the challenge of completing three marathons in just six weeks to mark a particularly important milestone.
He explains: “It has been 10 years since my friend passed away at Martlets hospice. Although it was a really difficult time, the staff were absolutely fantastic. It was then that I decided that I wanted to give something back to a place that had made a real difference.”
Not only has Mark run several marathons to raise money, he has also organised other fundraising activities such as pub quizzes. To date, Mark has raised around £15,000 for the hospice.
Antonia Shepherd, Fundraising Manager at the Martlets, said: “Mark is a fantastic fundraiser, but he’s never attempted something as ambitious as three marathons in six weeks.
“We’re immensely proud and grateful to Mark. Money raised by our fundraisers helps us provide life-changing care to people across Brighton & Hove and the surrounding areas.”
Mark is now preparing for his third and final marathon in Edinburgh tomorrow, Sunday, May 27, having completed the Brighton and London marathons in April.
This is the first time that Mark will attempt the Edinburgh marathon. He is hoping that the downhill course and favourable weather conditions will help him finish the challenge with a good time.
He said: “I’m really looking forward to tackling a new course. I love the city of Edinburgh and I’m hoping to finish my three-marathon challenge in style by achieving a personal best.”
If you wish to contribute to the total Mark raises, click here:
You must be logged in to post a comment.