Running mates from Leighton Buzzard and Olney on Marathon mission to raise funds for disability charity
Two friends from Leighton Buzzard and Olney are taking on this year’s London Marathon to raise vital funds for disability charity Contact.
Katie King and Rachel McKenzie-Martin will run the 26.2-mile challenge on Sunday, April 26 in support of Contact, which provides expert advice, information and support to families of disabled children.
This year’s event marks Rachel’s second time running the London Marathon for Contact, while it will also be a special milestone for Katie as she completes her 30th lifetime marathon.
For both Katie, who is 41 and a teacher at Brooklands Middle School in Leighton Buzzard and Rachel, 47, a Paramedic Clinical Advisor for EEAST in Bedfordshire, running the marathon together really cements a really close bond.
Speaking about the challenge, Rachel and Katie said: “We are delighted to be taking on the London Marathon together in support of Contact. It means so much to raise both funds and awareness for a charity that makes such a positive difference to families. Training together has been an incredible journey and we are excited to take on this challenge.
“So far, we have raised almost £4,500 through a fitness fiesta event, cake sales, a raffle and charity scratch cards, and we are incredibly grateful for all the support we have received.”
Kaya Korablina, from Contact, said: “Running 26 miles is a phenomenal achievement, and we’re incredibly proud of Katie’s dedication, commitment and fundraising efforts. Her support will make a real difference to families with disabled children across the UK.
“We wish Katie and Rachel the very best of luck. Their run will help ensure we can continue providing vital, life-changing support to families who need it most.”