As you probably know, Paula and I are running the London Marathon again next year for Sense. If you didn’t know—Tutt Tutt—go read the page. It’s got drama, fundraising, and probably a photo of me looking sweaty and confused.
But this post isn’t about us. It’s about Elodie.
Elodie, Paula’s grandchild (age four and a half), decided she wanted to help raise money for Sense. Last year, she was our charity sidekick—rattling tubs, collecting coins, and charming the crowds. But this year? She wanted her own mission.
So, with the help of her mum (Roxy), the family, and a small army of friends, we launched Elodie’s Marathon Month.
📅 The Plan: One Mile a Day for 26 Days
Her task? Run one mile every day for 26 days in August. A full marathon, spread out like jam on toast. Sensible. Achievable. Slightly bonkers.
She’d already been running Bude Marshes parkrun every Sunday—a solid 2K—so she wasn’t new to the game. We set up a JustGiving page, made posters, launched a Facebook page, and told anyone who would listen. We even sent a plea to Heart Radio, aimed at Amanda Holden (whose mum lives nearby), hoping for a shoutout or a surprise visit.
Nothing. Shame on you, Heart Radio. Elodie deserved airtime.
🏃♀️ Day One: The Housing Estate Hustle
August 1st arrived. Elodie smashed it—running with Nanny, Mummy, and me around the housing estate. We all quietly thought she’d get bored after a few days. She fell a few times, thanks to pavements that were clearly designed by someone who hates ankles. But she brushed herself off and carried on. Mile one: done.
Week after week, she ran. Different places. Different people. Friends. Friends’ parents. Each mile was followed by a reward—usually ice cream or something sugar-based and celebratory. She became a local legend. A four-year-old mini machine.
🌊 The Final Mile: Coastal Path Glory
On day 26, Elodie picked the route: up over the coastal path, around, and back into Crocklets for the grand finale ice cream. Nanny went first, running with Elodie while Roxy and I followed—panting up the hill, trying to keep pace with a child who apparently runs on rocket fuel and optimism.
We took turns running with her. She did the full 26 miles—and the extra 0.2 for good measure. Job done. Time to celebrate.
Her fundraising goal was £200. She smashed it. £350 raised at last count. Not bad for someone who still needs help tying her shoelaces.
👏 Elodie: Still Running, Still Smashing It
She’s still going strong—running every Sunday at Bude Canal parkrun. Clapped in by crowds. Cheered on by strangers. Powered by ice cream and pure determination.
Well done, Elodie. You’re officially the youngest marathoner in our crew—and possibly the only one who finishes with a smile and a sprinkle cone.