Meet our 2025 London Marathon Runners
Today, six of our dedicated supporters will be lacing up their running shoes to take on the iconic TCS London Marathon, 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
Richard Kemp & Raj Gurung
Richard and Raj serve together as officers of The Queen’s Gurkha Signals (QGS). This will be Richard’s very first Marathon! “I have ran a few half marathons before. Im hoping my training will get me across the finish line. The idea of getting to the finish line of a half marathon and turn around to go back is daunting.”
Richard’s thoughts on training so far…
“Training has been challenging especially the longer runs. Juggling work and family time whilst trying to get training miles in has been a challenge but I feel ready. I feel like the training has been such a big part of my routine for a while now that in some way I might miss it and continue some of the training after Sunday. Don’t hold me to that though.”
…and fundraising
“The fundraising has also been challenging. We have organised some momo lunches at work as well as a mobile bake sale around camp during the day which was quite successful. Anytime there is food on offer, especially momos, people are eager to get involved.”
…and how is he feeling about the race ahead?
“Im feeling excited, I’m hoping to be able to take in the atmosphere on the day and enjoy as much of it as I can.”
Visit Richard’s fundraising page
Visit Raj’s fundraising page
Sukeallia Blount
This will be Sukeallia’s ninth Marathon! She has decided to run for GWT to support a cause that helps the lives of others and to honor her grandmother in a meaningful way as she supported the Trust for years.
Sukeallia’s thoughts on training so far…
“Errrm, it could have gone better!!!!! ”
Read more about Sukeallia’s fundraising efforts here.
…and how is she feeling about the race ahead?
“Im excited and nervous, my expectations have been shifted and carefully managed, it’s about enjoying the day as much as I can and soak up the atmosphere! ”
Visit Sukeallia’s fundraising page
Matt Commander
This is Matt’s first marathon. He chose to run the marathon for The Gurkha Welfare Trust following his experience working with the GWT Nepal team on the ground during his time as a Queen’s Gurkha Engineer Officer. “I have seen first hand the positive effects their work has on communities within Nepal and I wanted to support the GWT in continuing their task.”
Matt’s thoughts on training so far…
“The training has been great. I have enjoyed it and there is a lot of support and advice available out there. It has not always been easy but it has been rewarding!”
…and fundraising
“The fundraising has been going well. I am lucky enough to work in a school and the community have been very supportive, as have friends and family.”
…and how is he feeling about the race ahead?
“I am excited for the big day! There is a little trepidation but I am just focusing on enjoying it.”
Visit Matt’s fundraising page
Prajjwol Gautum
Prajjwol is an avid runner with a long-standing dream of participating in the iconic London Marathon. After failing to secure a spot through the ballot, he was delighted to see that he could run for a charity that holds a space in his heart.
“Many international races don’t feature charities that significantly impact the Nepalese community. That’s why I was thrilled to find GWT listed. The trust’s dedication to supporting the Gurkha community back home perfectly aligns with my mission and values. I am eager to be a part of their work through the London Marathon, helping to make a difference for those in need.”
Visit Prajjwol’s fundraising page
Katie Shanahan
Katie is a Sports presenter and former England Hockey player, having represented her country for five years. She ran the London Landmarks Half Marathon for GWT in 2024, and is back this year to take on the challenge of the full marathon for the first time.
“The Gurkha Welfare Trust is my chosen charity as my family have served alongside and written books all about the Gurkhas! So I’ve been well educated about the Gurkhas for many years. I think the Gurkha veterans deserve all the help we can give them after showing their loyalty and dedicated service to the British Army.”
Katie’s thoughts on training so far…
“Training has been good. I’ve been training for a while, but only managed to get up to 16 miles, as my knees have been struggling. But after lots of treatment and monitoring them during training I think they’ll be fine. I may just struggle the next day…! I would say naturally I’m more of a sprinter over short distances, but the fitness is there…! This will be my first marathon and the furthest I’ve ever run, so I’m just going to try and enjoy the day as much as I can. ”
…and fundraising
“The fundraising has been good and great to see more and more coming in over the £3k target, so lots of Gurkha veterans can benefit from the generous donations people have made.”
…and how is he feeling about the race ahead?
“I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve got family and friends coming along with signs and blow up microphones. It’s going to be a fun day and I can’t wait to join up and run with the other GWT runners too!”