The GWT London Marathon line-up
On Sunday 21st April our team of fundraisers will follow the iconic 26.2 mile course around London, joining over one million runners who have crossed the line since the historic race first began in 1981.
This once in a lifetime opportunity will not only bring the physical and mental health benefits of being active, but also the chance to ‘give back’ to the Gurkha veterans who put their lives on the line for Great Britain.
Meet our runners
Imogen Jagathesan
This will be Imogen’s first ever running event! In March of 2023 she sadly lost her Grandad who worked with and supported the Gurkhas throughout his life.
“Growing up, I heard countless stories about the soldiers and work they did so when I saw the opportunity to run the London marathon for them I knew I wanted to do it. It has given me the opportunity to raise money for this incredible charity to help support the work they do, as well as honour my grandfather.”
Imogen’s thoughts on training so far…
“As you can probably imagine, as someone who was not a runner 6 months ago, training has been tough at times. But, I have definitely enjoyed it and am amazed at how much my body has adapted. It has also improved my fitness and given me the opportunity to meet lots of other runners who have been very supportive in my journey.”
…and fundraising
“Raising the money for the Gurkhas was a huge reason as to why I wanted to run, and I am extremely happy with how it has gone/is going. It seemed quite daunting at first, but there are so many ways to raise money. I’m lucky enough to have very supportive friends and family who have kindly donated to my online donation page. I also did a big clear out and sold items at car-boot sales and online though second-hand websites. Cake sales are always a success and a way to raise some money.”
Visit Imogen’s fundraising page
Chloe Finamore
This is Chloe’s first marathon and she is hoping to finish the course in between 4.30 and 4.45 hours.
Chloe’s grandfather, Col. Samuel Craxford, worked alongside the Gurkhas in the 1960s in Hong Kong. Over the years, she heard many stories of his work with them and the depth of his admiration and affection became clear last year after he suffered a fall.
“During our hospital visits Sam spoke of little else! On hearing of his condition, the Brigade of Gurkhas immediately rallied troops and, in true Gurka-style, Captain Pali paid Grandpapa a visit in hospital with a get-well soon card in hand. It was a wonderful day that we will always cherish. As a family, we are deeply touched and grateful for the memories of that special visit. As a nation, we owe a debt of honour to the Gurkha for their steadfast loyalty and devoted service. So running the London Marathon felt like the perfect way to both pay tribute to my Grandma and Grandpapa while also raising much-needed funds for an important cause.”
Chloe’s thoughts on training so far…
“Training has been great fun, though I have a love/hate relationship with the weekly long run. An injury took me out of training for a month, but I was relieved to be able to get back into it with 8 weeks to go. I might be slower than I had initially hoped, but finishing and enjoying the amazing atmosphere and support is my main goal.”
…and fundraising
“I hosted a charity auction pub night with a great deal of support from London’s St James’s community. I was blown away by the generous donations of raffle and auction prizes and by bids on the night – it was clear that many people were eager to support the great work of the Trust. The night itself was a success and also a lot of fun.”
Visit Chloe’s fundraising page
Angus Watson
Angus is no stranger to running marathons, this is his fourth London Marathon and his second raising money for The Gurkha Welfare Trust. Angus served with the Brigade of Gurkhas and has held them close to his heart ever since.
Angus’s advice for those who are running their first marathon…
“Don’t worry – have fun – remember most people don’t get to do this and by just starting you are already a winner!”
His thoughts on training so far…
“Training was going really well but then deployed to do humanitarian surgery in Gaza, the only training I did in Palestine was 150 laps round our small safe house compound!”
…and fundraising
“I have been slow to get going but I am also planning to the the Barcelona IronMan for the GWT, so I am hopeful that over the two events I will raise lots of money for this wonderful charity!”