Tim Takes on the Park

Not one to sit back and relax, Head of Boys’ Games at Leighton Park School, Tim Green, decided to do rather the opposite and run a marathon across the School’s 65-acre park, in order to help vulnerable families throughout this period. Inspired by initiatives happening in the Leighton Park community, Tim completed 30 laps of the Park to make up the 26.2 miles that constitute a marathon on Friday 5th June, from 2.00pm.

During his training in May alone, Tim ran more than 100 miles and even encountered a deer as wildlife continues to govern the quiet Park. “Why am I doing this absurd challenge you may ask?” commented Tim. “I am raising money for one of our partners Whitley Community Development Association. This organisation works with the local community to provide support and resources for those whose lives have been significantly impacted by the COVID 19 pandemic. This includes providing food, clothes, toys and small grants, which at this time are vital for hundreds of families.”

Whitley CDA have now distributed over 1,500 food boxes which have fed over 3,300 people throughout the pandemic. Unfortunately, they are still receiving new referrals as locals are increasingly being laid off. Despite this, the organisation continues to bring hope and comfort to individuals and families in the area.

Trisha Bennett, Community Development Coordinator at Whitley CDA commented “We are so touched that Tim has decided to run to raise money for us. All of these funds will go towards providing vital support to the people of Whitley. If you can donate, even, just a little please do. We will be cheering Tim on from Whitley!”

Hosted by Jeremy Belas, Director of Sport and Andy Gallacher, Head of Rugby and Athletic Development, students, staff and their families tuned into the first and last 5k of Tim’s marathon on Friday, cheering him over the finish line with residents of the Park who came out to support. Tim has surpassed his Go Fund Me target, raising over £3,300!

Once recovered from his feat, Tim reflected “I did it – it took a little bit longer than I wanted it to and the last eight miles were very tough but over £1000 raised for charity makes it worthwhile. The total is still raising so feel free to continue to donate! Thank you to all those who have donated and to all the LP community who came out to support me in person and online! I’m taking a break from marathon running now for a bit, but never say never to another on!”