Longstanding supporter of RPMF, Claire Spackman, has run numerous marathons for RPMF in the past. This year though, she decided she would pass on the baton of charitable endevor to good friend Olly Pomeroy. However, the root of her profound support for the fund traces back to her grandfather, John Lister. To those well-versed in the athletics world, you will know of Lister’s imprint on the UK’s athletic landscape and the London Marathon. For those who don’t, Claire has told us of his influence and legacy, underlining the resonance of her dedication to RPMF.
“My grandad, John Lister, was an incredibly inspiring man. His involvement with all things athletics was one of the main reasons I got into running small distances originally. It was through his encouragement and his belief in me that then lead me, several years later, to take on the London Marathon. One of my proudest days was taking part in the event and hearing the words “well done, we knew you could do it” from my grandparents at the finish line. Running for Ron allowed me to give a small nod of gratitude and recognition to my grandad for all he has done for the event over the many years of his involvement. Not only has he been a trustee of the RPMF since its formation, he was also one of the original directors of the London Marathon and always told me stories about his time supporting Chris Brasher with getting the event up and running. He and grandma would be invited every year to attend as guests.” She adds; “This year will be a very special year for me, the first year without grandad watching. I will be spending the day there in his place though, cheering on my good friend Olly who has the honour of Running for Ron at the London Marathon. We are all incredibly proud that he has already smashed his fundraising goal! From everyone in John Lister’s family, we wish you the best of luck on the day and thank you for raising money for such a great cause.”
As a fund, it is so wonderful to hear such heartening stories like this, and even more so to be reminded of the history of the fund.
Thank you Claire for your incredible support over the years, and we wish the very best to Olly and every other Ronner on Sunday!
The link to Olly’s fundraising page can be found here
Photograph by Mark Shearman