Running a distance event for charity is no small feat—especially when you’re staring down a big fundraising target. The real secret? Start your fundraising early so you can focus on your training later. Easier said than done? Not according to this week’s guest.

In this episode, Clare Downes from Shrewsbury shares how she organised a simple event and hit her entire fundraising target in just one day. Tune in to hear her practical tips, smart strategies, and the mindset that made it all possible. If you think early fundraising is out of reach, Clare’s story might just change your mind.

If you'd like to follow in Clare's footsteps and run your next event for Scoliosis Support & Research, or you're interested in one of the charity's 2027 London Marathon entries, email Will fundraising@ssr.org.uk. Thank you.

To find out more about scoliosis head to https://ssr.org.uk

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 channels, one on training and fundraising support, this one on runner stories and a third one for members only. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

• Clare's daughter inspired her to support others with scoliosis.
• Running has been a lifelong passion for Clare.
• The marathon is a bucket list challenge for Clare.
• Community support was crucial in fundraising efforts.
• Clare and her friend organised a successful fundraising event.
• Asking local businesses for support can yield great results.
• Using technology like card readers can enhance fundraising events.
• Collaboration with a friend made the planning process enjoyable.
• Clare aims to raise around four thousand pounds for charity.
• Training together adds motivation and fun to the marathon journey.

• Running for a Cause: Clare's Marathon Journey
• Inspiring Change Through Running

• "Don't be frightened to ask."
• "We didn't have a committee."
• "We cracked on."

From 5K to an Ultra this podcast tells the powerful story of Ceri Bastyan, a runner who turned the challenges of living with ADHD into a journey of endurance and self-discovery. From struggling to focus to taking on an ultramarathon, Ceri shares how running became a tool for transformation—proving that persistence, purpose, and passion can push you farther than you ever imagined.

Ceri is the Community Fundraising Officer at the Force Cancer Charity in Exeter, UK, the charity partner of the City's Great West Run. If you'd like to join their team in the Great West Run ,or get a charity entry in any of their running events check them out here or email them.

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 channels, one on training and fundraising support, this one on runner stories and a third for members only. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

• Ceri's journey into running began after losing weight and seeking an outlet after her mother's death.
• She started with 5Ks and gradually progressed to half marathons and now aims for a marathon and ultra marathon.
• Proper training and nutrition are crucial for improving running performance.
• Ceri emphasises the mental health benefits of running, especially for managing ADHD.
• Community support and fundraising for charity events are integral to her running experience.
• She encourages beginner runners to start small and build their confidence.
• Ceri's love for running is tied to her desire to set a positive example for her daughter.
• She believes in the importance of having a 'why' for running, which motivates her to keep going.
• Fundraising can be approached creatively, such as through small donations and community events.
• Ceri's experience shows that running can be a powerful tool for personal growth and community engagement.

• From Overweight to Ultra Runner: Ceri's Inspiring Journey
• Running for a Cause: Ceri's Charity Marathon Goals

• "I started running 5Ks."
• "I thought, okay, I did it."
• "Running isn't for everyone."

Running a marathon is tough. Running one without sight is extraordinary. In this episode, we meet Clarke Reynolds, also known as Mr Dot — a visually impaired artist and marathoner who’s taking on his next big challenge: the Brighton Marathon without a guide runner. Instead, he’ll rely on Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses and the Be My Eyes app, allowing volunteers around the world to guide him through the race in real time.

It’s a story of courage, technology, and community — where human connection meets innovation to make the impossible possible.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about trust, independence, and how tech can empower people to see the world in new ways.

You can support Clarke's fundraising effort for the Fight for Sight charity right here on his JustGiving page.

If you'd like to join Clarke and run an event for Fight for Sight check out their events here, or email events@fightforsight.org.uk

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 channels, one on training and fundraising support, this one on runner stories and a third for members only. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

Keywords

Braille technology, visually impaired, marathon running, assistive technology, innovation, accessibility, guide runners, personal challenges, technology in sports, empowerment

Summary

In this conversation, Clarke Reynolds, aka Mr Dot, discusses his journey of pushing the boundaries of braille technology and exploring the possibility of running a marathon without traditional aids like a guide runner or a white cane. He emphasises the role of innovation and technology in empowering visually impaired individuals to take on new challenges in sports and life.

Takeaways

I pushed the boundaries of braille. What could I do with these amazing technology? Can a person run a marathon without a guide runner? People can run marathons with white canes. Let's do it with this technology. This is about empowerment through technology. Innovation can change lives. Accessibility is key in sports. Challenging norms in athletics. Running is for everyone, regardless of ability.

Titles

Empowering the Visually Impaired Through Technology Innovative Approaches to Marathon Running

Sound bites

"Innovation can change lives." "Accessibility is key in sports." "Challenging norms in athletics."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mr. Dot and His Journey 01:32 Overcoming Blindness: A Personal Story 03:33 Inspiring the Next Generation: Workshops and Charities 04:52 The London Marathon Experience: Challenges and Triumphs 08:09 Innovative Training: Using Technology to Run 11:39 The Brighton Marathon: A New Challenge 15:11 Fundraising and Community Support 18:22 Future Aspirations and Legacy