Three first-time London Marathon runners from North Yorkshire have completed one of the world’s most famous races in a test of endurance and determination.
Ripon Runners club members Sara Barker, David Brown, and James Pollington-Clyne crossed the finish line in London on Sunday, April 26, in what they described as "one huge carnival".
Their efforts raised funds for the Blue Cross animal welfare charity and the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association.
Ms Barker, from Coxwold, ran in support of the Blue Cross and overcame significant personal challenges to take part.
She said: "I hadn’t been running regularly for the last few years as I have recently had two children, so having found out that I had a place in the marathon I knew I had some work to do.
"The run itself was like one huge carnival.
"I ran with so many inspiring people, all with unique stories and challenges that they had overcome to get to the start.
"It’s a very emotional day which really illustrates the best of humanity and community."
Following knee surgery last September, Ms Barker began her training with a Couch-to-5k programme before gradually increasing her distance.
Mr Brown, a Ripon resident and lifelong Leeds Rhinos rugby fan, dedicated his run to the MND Association.
Mr Brown said: "I only had from December to train for the London race, so it was pretty intense.
"I ran with Ripon Runners during the week and built up my long runs to 21 miles, three weeks before race day.
"The second half was the biggest running challenge I’ve ever faced, and the finish line was a massive relief.
"I was so pleased my wife had booked a hotel at Trafalgar Square—really close to the finish.
"The crowds around the finish were huge; all the roads were full of people."
Mr Brown was inspired by rugby legends Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield in his fundraising efforts.
Mr Pollington-Clyne, also from Ripon but currently studying at Loughborough University, hadn’t run further than 16 miles before the marathon.
He said: "I’ve been a runner and triathlete for almost 10 years.
"Training for the marathon properly began in January, and I built up to running 50km a week, balancing that with my triathlon training.
"Crossing the line is a real mix of emotions—both relief and excitement.
"But for me, what stood out was the rush of adrenaline that comes from having completed a big challenge that you’ve worked towards for so long."
The trio are members of Ripon Runners, a community-focused running club founded in 1985 by local milkman Cameron Weatherburn.
The club welcomes runners of all ages, genders, and abilities, and also has a dedicated junior section.
Based at Ripon Rugby Club, Ripon Runners meets on Tuesday and Thursday evenings throughout the year and hosts regular weekend runs and social events.
They also organise the Jolly Holly Jog, Ripon 10 Mile, and Ripon Ultra races to help keep membership fees low.
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For anyone considering the London Marathon in the future, Ms Barker offered some practical advice.
She said: "Train gradually and consistently, set a realistic time goal and don’t sacrifice your experience to chase a time.
"There are other much less crowded (and perhaps less atmospheric) marathons for that."
More information about the club can be found at www.riponrunners.org.uk.
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