Six-year-old Harry from Kent is preparing to lace up his trainers and take on this year’s Hospice Mini Marathon alongside his mum Charlotte and his nan Sue.
Harry, who is in Year 1 at school, will be running his first ever Mini Marathon when the event returns this spring. The trio are taking part together, making it a special three-generation moment for the family.
While this is Harry’s first Mini Marathon, the family are no strangers to a challenge. Last year, Harry joined Charlotte and Sue at the Brands Hatch 5km inflatable run.
Charlotte said: “This is Harry’s fist Mini Marathon but last year alongside myself and my Mum (Harry’s Nan) we took part at The Brands Hatch 5km inflatable which Harry thoroughly enjoyed so we set out looking for a new challenge this year.”
Harry is already a keen sports fan and spends much of his time running around, whether that’s at football, swimming or golf lessons.
Charlotte said: “Harry loves sport and is always telling us he’s the fastest in his class. Harry is part of a local football club and plays at the weekend as well as swimming and golf lessons - he is super busy and always on the go!”
Harry agrees.
“Yes, I like running, football and basketball because I’m good at it.”
The idea of taking on bigger races has already captured his imagination. Harry has watched Charlotte and family friends run major events like the London Landmarks Half Marathon and the London Marathon.
Charlotte said: “He has watched me and a super close family friend run the London Landmarks Half Marathon and another family friend run the London Marathon. The whole time he kept saying I want to run the marathon when I’m 18 - they were great days out and he enjoyed the buzz of them! I hope it can inspire him to train, keep trying, never give up and achieve your goals.”
Although Harry isn’t running in memory of someone directly cared for by our hospice, supporting hospice care is something that means a lot to the family.
Charlotte explained: “We aren’t running in memory of anyone who has been supported by the hospice but my wonderful Grandad (My Mum’s Dad) was cared for in a hospice local to them which gave our family great comfort during such a difficult time. As a family we know how important hospices are often during the last stages of people’s lives. My Grandad would have loved Harry and would have been super proud of his achievements.”
Harry has already started fundraising with support from friends and family. When asked how much he hopes to raise, he didn’t hold back.
“A thousand trillion!!”
Charlotte laughed: “Wow we have some more serious fundraising to do!”
Harry was thrilled to discover he had raised the highest amount so far.
“I felt happy because I’m winning the money for the charity.”
Training for the big day hasn’t required too much preparation.
Charlotte said: “Harry loves to be outside and is constantly on the move so not much training needed!”
Harry added: “I run lots at football.”
Like many young runners, Harry already has his eye on the prize.
“I’m looking forward to getting the medal.”
Outside of running, Harry’s life is packed with sports and fun. Charlotte describes him as a loyal friend who loves supporting others.
“Harry is super loyal and loves playing and supporting his friends. He loves sport and is getting super interested in football - He likes to defend to tackle the ball and has memorised chunks of the league table! Harry’s favourite Gladiator is Nitro and he thinks he would be great at the travelator!”
Harry also shared a couple of important facts about himself.
“My favourite food is pepperoni pizza and I like all sports.”
And if he had one message for other children thinking about taking part?
“I would tell other children that it will be fun.”
