“Can this really be the 24th April? I’m sure I just saw snow falling!”

Almost 39,000 runners battled the cold weather last Sunday to be #oneinamillion and take part in one of the world’s most famous events, the 36th London Marathon 2016, raising thousands of pounds for hundreds of great causes. And amongst the mighty strong crowd hoping to be crowned the millionth runner to cross the finish line was our ever so heroic #TeamVariety, who were supporting sick, disabled and disadvantaged children all across the UK.

Starting at 10:00am in Greenwich park, #TeamVariety’s valiant group dwindled down through injury to 17 who took part on the day but much to the delight of those taking part …and equally, the supporters gathered around the course, the enthusiasm of the participants helped keep our runners positive and the cold at bay.

Our numbers may be small but boy did they have an impact in fundraising! Over £50,000 has been raised so far through the kindness and generosity of sponsors and the hard work of the #TeamVariety.

Leading the pack and Variety’s fastest runner was Ben Harris 24, who took just 3hours 40mins. Ben, is a Fast Stream Civil Servant who had a placement at Variety for six months. He is now a Very Fast Stream Civil Servant!

Our very own Karé, who received a sports wheelchair from Variety and at just 15 years old, won the London Marathon Under 17s Wheelchair Race to add to her 2014 and 2015 under 14 titles.

Variety’s oldest runner, Hos Davies, from Swansea, aged 67 commented afterwards:

“I can’t believe that I have just run the London marathon, It was a day that will live with me forever but without Variety’s support I would never achieved it”.

And Variety’s support didn’t just come from across the UK. International runner Faizan Jamal flew in especially from Dubai to run in the event for Variety – what a star! His motive….simply to….make a difference to children’s lives!

Fiona O’Donovan, who ran for her little boy, PJ who received a wheelchair from Variety said:

“Why would you not raise money for a charity that helps children”.

Adam Kettle, from Travelex emailed to say:

“I just want to say thank you to you and all the guys at Variety! I am so glad I decided to run the Marathon again this year and also glad I ran for Variety”.

All Variety’s runners came home in under 6 hours 30 but more importantly, collectively have raised funds for our work helping disabled and disadvantaged children and young people…..and we can’t thank them enough!

As well as our incredible runners, we would like to extend a HUGE thank you to all the volunteers and staff who gave their time to support #TeamVariety and make it such a special day for all concerned.

Variety raised almost £1million since it’s relationship with the London Marathon and hopes to raise much more in the year’s to come.