Meet the RDA Marathon Team running in the 2024 TCS London Marathon. Each member of the team has a special RDA connection, making their fundraising efforts all the more meaningful.
Thank you and good luck to all nine members of the team, we’ll be cheering you on!
Would you like to take part in a Challenge Event, all while supporting our life changing work? Get in touch with our friendly fundraising team on fundraising@rda.org.uk.
Peter McKnight
“Having wanted to for years, I am finally running the London marathon! To be make it even better I shall be running for a charity that is very meaningful to me.
The RDA played a pivotal role in my fiancée’s life. Horse riding from a young age provided physical therapy in a fun social environment and ultimately led to her competing in dressage, becoming a Paralympian, and winning 8 gold medals for Great Britain.
In a neat bit of symmetry, 2024 is a Paralympic year and Sophie hopes to represent GB for a 5th time. Additionally the marathon starts at Greenwich Park, the location of her 2012 gold medal winning performances.”
Linzi Lloyd-Henry
Meet Linzi, an experienced runner with a very horsey heart, being no stranger to RDA or brushing the yard.
“When I visit my sister each year for our weekly sister time I become a stablehand at her RDA yard Kesteven Rideablity. Horses have a certain power that makes the rider feel calm and relaxed.
This is an opportunity for me to raise funds for a charity close to my heart that encompasses both animals and people. When deciding on one of my fundraising activities, I wanted to have a bit of fun so I went to work dressed as a horse! I hope to see as many of your smiling faces on London Marathon Day look out for the swishing pony tail!”
Annie Rainbow
“Hi, my names Annie and I am proud to say I’m running the London marathon for the RDA!
Growing up, my own ponies if they were suitable were always offered for RDA lessons that took place on my yard. Turning 30 I wanted a challenge and what better way to celebrate then raising money for a fabulous charity. Being a horsey person has meant getting up early to train is not a problem!”
Andrea Wadden
“Through my work I come in to contact with people on a daily basis who have been injured and are no longer able to do the activities they used to. One of my colleagues introduced me to the RDA and what they do. Seeing how they are able to help kids and adults both physically and socially was very inspiring, and I’m delighted to be able to raise some money for RDA to continue doing the amazing work they are doing!”
Gillian McNaughton
Meet Gillian, Gillian volunteers at Carrick RDA in Ayreshire and is very excited for the challenge.
Gillian says:
“Having been involved with RDA for many years and I have seen first hand the positive impact that interacting with horses has on the physical and mental health of the people who attend our local Group.
My Mum is a regional trainer and I volunteer and we both love it. It is truly amazing to see how participants overcome their challenges on a daily basis and this is the reason we are running for the charity.
My main motivation that keeps us going on long runs is the difference we are making, thinking about others…”
Raina Hayles
Raina is no stranger to RDA, with special ties to our very own Belvoir Vale RDA.
Raina says:
“My partner’s mother is the Group Chair of Belvoir Vale RDA works in Nottingham. They have recently built a brand new state of the art centre which is incredible, which we often visit. So much time and effort goes into running the centre, so I am keen to help in any way I can. It is easy to see what a difference it makes to the lives of the riders – it is such a worthwhile cause.
For anyone else taking on a big challenge, my top tip for staying motivated is keeping a diary of your progress. It is very easy to forget how far you’ve come and how amazing your body is! One day 5km seems daunting and then before you know it you’re running a marathon! It’s important to recognise how much you’ve achieved already.”
Ben Davies
Ben is no stranger to RDA, with family ties to Belvoir Vale RDA in the North Midlands Region.
“I have seen first hand the amazing work that my local Belvoir Vale RDA center does in providing a much-needed community resource for disabled children and adults living in the local area.”
Chris Henderson
Chris says:
“I am running the London marathon for RDA to combine a personal achievement with a meaningful cause. I’m excited that my efforts will contribute to empowering individuals with disabilities through therapeutic horse riding, creating positive impacts on many lives.
I hope to raise awareness of the cause and vital funds, enhancing the lives of those supported by RDA. I am proud to run on their behalf and look forward to supporting them through the
year.”
