Tag: edinburgh marathon festival

Sister runs 78km marathon challenge for disabled brother

A WOMAN has smashed a £10,000 fundraising target by completing four Edinburgh Marathon Festival events in a single weekend- running 78km in two days for the disabled brother she helps care for.

Micaela Church completed the 5km (3.1 miles) and 10km (6.2 miles) on Saturday, followed by the half marathon (21.1km / 13.1 miles) and full marathon (42.2km / 26.2 miles), raising vital funds for Capability Scotland’s Our Inclusive Community Project (OICP).

The new development will replace Upper Springland, the Perth residential facility where her brother Matthew lives, which faces a significant flooding risk that threatens its long-term future.

Matthew, who was born with cytomegalovirus, lives with learning disabilities, autism, epilepsy and severe anxiety that requires round-the-clock specialist care. When Micaela and her siblings became his welfare guardians following the sudden loss of their mother five years ago, Upper Springland’s support proved invaluable to the whole family.

Micaela said: “The team at Upper Springland have taken the time to truly understand Matthew, his needs, his anxieties and the things that bring him joy.

“Knowing he is safe and genuinely cared for gives our whole family peace of mind. That’s what I’m running for.”

The new OICP facility will include a specialist hydrotherapy pool and that detail has driven every training mile. Swimming is where Matthew is at his happiest and the thought of securing that for him, and others like him, gave Micaela’s campaign its purpose.

Micaela remembered her mother returning from the Edinburgh Marathon Festival with a medal, convinced she had won. Decades later, she ran the same course carrying that memory with her.

Ailsa Wallace, Head of Fundraising & Communications at Capability Scotland, said: “What Micaela is taking on is extraordinary both the physical challenge and the dedication behind it.

“Upper Springland has served people from across Scotland for over 40 years. The OICP will ensure that exceptional care continues in a modern, purpose-built environment that truly reflects it and fundraising like this brings that future one step closer.”

To support Micaela’s challenge, visit:

 https://www.justgiving.com/page/manymilesformatthew?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL&utm_campaign=lc_frp_share_transaction_fundraiser_page_launched

Local Paramedic to run Edinburgh Marathon in full suit of armour

Edinburgh City Paramedic, Jay Watt, is running in this weekend’s Edinburgh Marathon to raise money for SAMH, clad in a full suit of metal armour.

Jay has been running the Edinburgh Marathon every year since 2011 in a new costume to raise money for local and children’s charities. Previous years’ costumes have included Buzz Lightyear, aliens, and a bunny suit, raising money for The Yard and The Teenage Cancer Trust, amongst others.

Speaking about his latest challenge, Jay said: “In my job, I have encountered patients struggling with their mental health, so this year I wanted to raise awareness of the support SAMH give and raise money to help them continue their important work.

“This is my 20th marathon, and I’ve run in big mascot costumes before, but this year I wanted to break through the stigma of mental health and let people know it’s okay to have a chink in your armour.”

In addition to running the marathon, Jay has been putting the suit through its paces by skiing, boxing, kayaking, and more. He has had some help from a Scottish blacksmith, Kev Paxton, to ensure his suit can withstand each challenge.

Jay said: “Kev has helped me adjust the suit so I can do these activities in it and raise as much awareness as I can.

“By taking part in these sports and fitness activities, I am looking to encourage a positive vibe about mental health and encouraging people to reach out.”

Follow Jay’s journey and donate to his fundraiser here: 

https://www.justgiving.com/page/jay-watt-6?fbclid=IwY2xjawR6UwNleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF2THpPak1NRUtXMzFEM3Zrc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQPNTE0NzcxNTY5MjI4MDYxAAEeEBNPDXJ6JmNWNClTw1K_8aDpgLquv-7udeB17cUE3ihSc37gTnW2rUjFZm4_aem_JBv0cfBcER4Nr4Vm4Nq9YA

Aldi reveals the surprising benefits of carrots in powering marathon runners

Aldi Scotland is claiming that a simple supermarket staple could help fuel runners through one of the country’s toughest endurance challenges, as excitement builds for the return of the Edinburgh Marathon Festival.

With just over a week to go until Scotland’s largest marathon event, the retailer has teamed up with Edinburgh Running Network to inspire runners in a very unusual way, turning the streets of the capital into a giant carrot-shaped running route using Strava. The playful campaign is designed to spotlight the benefits of the humble vegetable as a natural training fuel.

Fronted by its iconic mascot, Kevin the Carrot, Aldi is promoting the unexpected benefits of carrots for runners preparing to go the distance.

While high-performance gels and protein bars often dominate marathon training plans, Aldi Scotland is championing a more natural option, highlighting its Scottish-grown supply chain and the farmers behind it.

The retailer sources its carrots from Benzies, a fourth-generation family-run farm in Aberdeenshire operated by Philip Benzie alongside his wife Hazel and stepson Charles.

Philip Benzie, owner, Benzies, said: “Carrots might not be the first things runners reach for, but they offer a surprising mix of benefits.

“They provide a gentle, steady source of energy thanks to natural sugars, while their high water content helps support hydration. They also contain potassium for muscle function and beta-carotene, which supports recovery and immune health, which are all important for anyone training consistently.”

Producing between 20,000 and 30,000 tonnes of Scottish carrots every year, Benzies also noted that carrots are easy to digest, particularly when cooked, making them a practical option for pre and post run meals, or as a light snack during busy training days. 

Lynne Cowden, coach co-ordinator and run leader, Edinburgh Running Network, said: “We loved the idea of turning Edinburgh’s streets into something a bit more playful in the run-up to the marathon.

“The carrot Strava art was a fun challenge for our community and a great way to keep motivation high as race day approaches.”

Benzies’ range of carrots is available across Aldi’s 113 Scottish stores.

You can find your nearest Aldi here.

LifeCare: Kick-start 2026 with a run that makes a difference

Team LifeCare invites runners of all abilities to join Scotland’s biggest running festival

Local runners are being encouraged to kick off their New Year fitness goals – or keep their good habits going – by signing up to run for a cause at the Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2026.

With standard entries for the Full and Half Marathon now sold out, the charity-exclusive entry period is officially underway. That means the only way to secure a place in these flagship events is by running for charity – and LifeCare Edinburgh is calling on the local community to join Team LifeCare!

Taking place over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend 23/24th May 2026, the Edinburgh Marathon Festival offers nine distances, from 5Ks to the full 26.2 miles, all set against some of Edinburgh’s most stunning routes. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just getting started, there’s a challenge to suit every ability.

Why run for Team LifeCare?

By running for LifeCare, every mile you cover helps support older people in our community to live healthier, more connected lives.  

  • Guaranteed charity place in the Full or Half Marathon when you fundraise
  • A choice of nine distances, from 5K to Full Marathon
  • Unforgettable routes through and around Edinburgh
  • Be part of something meaningful while achieving a personal fitness goal

Final entry deadline: 1pm, Saturday 31 January 2026 (Full & Half Marathon charity places)

What your fundraising could support

Funds raised by Team LifeCare runners help deliver vital services for older people across Edinburgh, including:

  • Nutritious meals delivered directly to older people’s homes
  • Health and wellbeing activities that reduce loneliness and support unpaid carers
  • Social clubs, entertainment and companionship for older people
  • One-to-one care and support that helps people stay independent for longer

Ready to start your New Year challenge?

Places are limited, and demand is high. Runners are encouraged to sign up now to avoid disappointment.

Sign up today and secure your place:  https://tinyurl.com/TeamLifeCare

National Walking Month Sparks a New Trend: The Rise of the Walking Marathon

THE RISE OF THE WALKING MARATHON

  • As thousands of runners prepare to take part in the Edinburgh Marathon Festival at the end of May, you might be wondering: could I complete a marathon?
  • Many people feel inspired by the challenge of a marathon, but are not runners, sparking the rise of the walking marathon!

Taking your first steps to conquering a marathon

  • Cancer charity Walk the Walk offers a feel-good way to fulfil your marathon dreams with The MoonWalk Scotland 2025
  • The MoonWalk is the original 26.2 miles overnight walking marathon and takes place on Saturday 6th September 2025, starting and finishing at Holyrood Park, Edinburgh
  • For those who are new to walking for fitness, Walk the Walk also offers an overnight 13.1 miles half marathon, as well as a family friendly 5K ZOOM Walk on the morning of Saturday 6th September, designed for all ages and abilities

The Power of Walking

  • Why not take the plunge, sign up for a walking challenge and make walking a regular habit?
  • May 2025 marks National Walking Month, spotlighting the simple but powerful benefits of walking for both physical and mental wellbeing.
  • A survey** commissioned by cancer charity Walk the Walk reveals:
    • 82% of adults say walking boosts their mood and mental health
    • 69% go for a walk at least once or twice a week to support their wellbeing
  • In a fast-paced world, walking is proving to be one of the most accessible and effective tools for self-care

Angela Mairs, 58 from Livingston was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024, following a routine mammogram. She’ll be taking on her second Full Moon (26.2 miles) at this year’s MoonWalk Scotland. 

“The MoonWalk Scotland 2019 was my first ever marathon – I’d never done anything like it before. Although it was a tough challenge, I felt such a huge sense of achievement when I finished.

“Having now been diagnosed with breast cancer myself, this time my marathon will be very personal. I need to build up my stamina following all my treatment and all the training I’ll need to do before September will give me a fantastic focus.”

Edinburgh Marathon Festival success for Sepsis Research FEAT runners

Survivors of sepsis, along with those running in memory of loved ones, took part in the Edinburgh Marathon Festival two weeks ago to support research into the number one cause of preventable death worldwide  

Two weeks ago, Edinburgh Marathon Festival saw a total of 21 runners come together as they raced to raise money, and awareness, for Sepsis Research FEAT. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that is the result of the body’s extreme response to infection.

When it strikes, the body’s immune system overreacts and starts attacking not just the infection, but everything else around it including the body’s own tissues and organs. 

Colin Graham, Chief Operating Officer of Sepsis Research FEAT, said: “Sepsis is not uncommon; people are just not as aware of it as they should be, partly because its symptoms can mimic other common conditions.

“It affects around 50,000 people across the UK, with approximately 50,000 people dying from sepsis every single year – that’s five people per hour.

“Out of those who survive, roughly 40-50% will be left with life-changing physical and psychological conditions.” 

Colin added: “Worldwide, sepsis kills 11 million people every year, which is higher than cancer.

“The magnitude of the problem highlights the urgent need for funding. Sepsis is the number one cause of preventable death in the world, and to every runner who raised money for our charity over the weekend, we want to say a big thank you.” 

Among the runners, who raised a total of £ 14,105 were sepsis survivors Erin Montgomery and Lori McIvor, along with Nadia Imbabi, Megan Kane and Alison McNeil who were running in memory of loved ones.  

Erin Montgomery, who survived sepsis in 2023, said: “Today was for myself and anyone else who has battled sepsis. All the pain is worth it when the money raised is going to the charity Sepsis Research FEAT.” 

Although the charity carries out invaluable work across the UK: funding research; raising awareness; supporting fundraisers and speaking with and sharing the stories of those with lived experience of sepsis, Scotland’s capital has always been close to the charity’s heart.

When living in Edinburgh, Sepsis Research FEAT’s founder and chair Craig Stobo developed sepsis, before losing both his wife Fiona and unborn daughter Isla to the immune response within a 36-hour period. 

As a result, Colin Graham said: ‘It was fantastic to see so many individuals touched by sepsis come together in order to raise money and remember loved ones where it all began”. 

To find out more information about sepsis, or get involved with Sepsis Research FEAT, please head to https://sepsisresearch.org.uk/  

Lothian youngsters conquer Edinburgh run for deaf children

Three children from the Lothians – including two siblings – conquered the Edinburgh Marathon Festival’s 2k run in support of the National Deaf Children’s Society.

West Calder siblings Jamie Farquhar, 10, and Cerys Firth, 11, and Wallyford youngster Mila Coult, 9, took on the picturesque course, which followed Queen’s Drive in the shadow of Salisbury Crags, on Saturday 25 May.

Jamie and Cerys smashed their original fundraising target, with £750 raised, while Mila did likewise and has raised over £900 so far for the charity, which supports the UK’s 50,000 deaf children and their families.

All three youngsters chose to run for the National Deaf Children’s Society because they have been affected by deafness in their families. Jamie was born deaf and now wears hearing aids, while Mila became deaf at the age of three and now has cochlear implants. Both families have been receiving ongoing support from the charity.

Jamie and Cerys live in West Calder with their parents Carrie-Ann and Callum and other siblings Emma and Erin, while Mila lives in Wallyford, near Musselburgh, with her mum Regan and stepdad Shaun.

Jamie said: “I chose the National Deaf Children’s Society because I love the activities I do with them and I want to keep that going for other deaf children.

“It felt amazing to finish, it felt great getting the medal. The thought of the medal kept me going. I tripped over a bar near the end, it was funny! I’m just really proud of how much we raised.”

Cerys added: “I ran for the National Deaf Children’s Society because my little brother is deaf. It felt amazing to get to the finish line. We both tripped up at the end! I knew I had to finish because if I didn’t, I’d have let lots of people down. I was doing it for Jamie.”

Commenting on her run, Mila said: “I really liked raising money, the run was really active and encouraged me to keep running and push myself. It was really tiring but I feel proud that I did it.”

Regan, Mila’s mum, added: “I’m so beyond proud of Mila and what she’s accomplished, both in fundraising for a charity so close to our hearts, and by pushing herself to run and have fun.”

Tamsin Bayliss, who supports fundraisers for the National Deaf Children’s Society, said: “I want to say a huge thank you to Jamie, Cerys and Mila for taking on this challenge for us. Conquering the Edinburgh Marathon Festival’s 2k run was a great achievement and we’re very proud of you.

“The National Deaf Children’s Society is dedicated to supporting the UK’s 50,000 deaf children and their families. The efforts of selfless fundraisers like Jamie, Cerys and Mila will help us to keep on doing our vital work, now and into the future.”

Scottish berry grower to fuel over 35,000 runners at this year’s Edinburgh Marathon Festival

Scottish berry grower and supplier Angus Soft Fruits has partnered with the Edinburgh Marathon Festival to fuel over 35,000 runners as they cross the finish line with delicious, nutrient packed AVA™ strawberries.  Continue reading Scottish berry grower to fuel over 35,000 runners at this year’s Edinburgh Marathon Festival

City Centre Hotel Offers Exclusive Discount to Edinburgh Runners

A CITY centre hotel is offering an exclusive discount to participants in Edinburgh’s biggest weekend of running festivities. Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket is offering a 10% discount on food and beverages for all those who take part in the Edinburgh Marathon Festival over the May bank holiday weekend.

The discount will be available to anyone who presents their Edinburgh Marathon medal after completing the various races taking place around the city tthis weekend over the 26th and 27th May.

Formerly known as a Premier Inn, the hotel is located in the heart of the capital, nearby Haymarket station, with a stylish onsite bar and restaurant.

Gillian Duthie, Cluster General Manager at the Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket said: “We’re thrilled to be offering this exclusive discount over a very exciting weekend in Edinburgh.

“It is sure to be a fantastic atmosphere, as the Edinburgh Marathon Festival always creates a great buzz about the city among visitors and residents alike.

“We’re hoping that tired runners ready for refreshment will pop in and enjoy this discount – they will have definitely earned it.”

Leonardo Royal’s modern lounge bar offers a range of light bites, snacks and beverages, with its restaurant, ‘Vitruv’ providing a popular food and wine menu.

The hotel has seen recent refurbishment, featuring designs from renowned hotel designer Andreas Neudahm, who has created a rustic, homely feel with touches of tartan and tweed – whilst retaining a contemporary style.

The bar area has also had an overhaul, with a stylish new marble tile flooring, treated oak lightshades and furniture, and classic Leonardo tall-back chairs to finish.

Gillian added: “We can’t wait to welcome everyone over the weekend to enjoy good food and drink in such a fantastic setting.”

To find out more, visit: https://www.leonardo-hotels.com/leonardo-royal-hotel-edinburgh

Think you’re ready to run the Edinburgh marathon? Five tips to prep like a pro

Edinburgh-based personal trainer Michael Ulloa has teamed up with AVA Berries to provide some race-preparation tips ahead of the Edinburgh Marathon Festival weekend at the end of this month.

Whether you are running the 5k, 10k, relay race, or the ultimate 26.2-mile challenge, here are five things that every runner should think about before the big day: Continue reading Think you’re ready to run the Edinburgh marathon? Five tips to prep like a pro