On the 5th May 2019, Rachel Bovington and Lucy Janes completed Newport Marathon to raise money for CRY in memory of Olivia Shaw – a beautiful, funny and caring friend who died suddenly in her sleep in January 2018.
The importance of raising awareness of cardiac risk in young people was also reinforced when Lucy and I ran the Cardiff Half Marathon in October 2018.
We were moved by the story of a lovely lady we were chatting to, whose brother had passed away from an undiagnosed heart condition.
Then, after hearing the incredibly sad news of 2 fellow runners passing away that very day after crossing the finish line, we knew we wanted to do our bit to raise money and awareness for CRY.
After committing to the marathon challenge we soon began our training. We encountered a few setbacks – namely Lucy’s knee injury – but through a mixture of determination, watching inspiring running films and many, many pep talks, we managed to keep each other going.
After all the hard work we had put into our training, the day itself finally arrived. Although we were both nervous to tackle our first marathon, we were also so excited!
We couldn’t have asked for better weather. It was sunny but not too warm, with a gentle breeze that kept us cool.
The support from the crowds really made the day as successful as it was. A fond memory that will stay with us both was when we were running through the village of Magor. It was such a surreal feeling to be supported and cheered on by hundreds of spectators.
Lucy and I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to everyone who donated, supported and cheered us on throughout our marathon journey. In particular, the massive amount of support we received from everyone at our brilliant running club, Caerphilly Runners.
We hope the money we have raised will help CRY in all the amazing work that they do in preventing young sudden cardiac death.
Rachel Bovington & Lucy Janes