The Most Emotional Run of My Life: Why Memorial Runs Matter More Than You Think

Have you ever run so far your legs burn… but it’s your heart that feels the weight? Today, I want to share with you the most emotionally charged run I’ve ever been on—one that left me not only gasping for breath, but truly appreciating every single stride. If you’re a runner—whether you’re pounding pavements, carving trails, or simply getting started—this storey could just change the way you run forever.

Welcome to Day 1,784 of the Runpreneur Challenge

Before I let you in on today’s powerful experience, allow me to remind you: the Runpreneur Challenge isn’t just about personal achievement. My mission is to go beyond Day 4,292, covering a staggering 40,075km—the circumference of the world—all whilst aiming to raise £1,000,000 for causes that save children’s lives. Every run, every vlog, every storey—like today’s—brings us closer to that goal.

A Run That Hit Home: The Memorial Run

Today’s run wasn’t a race, and it wasn’t for a medal. It was a memorial.

Last year, a fellow ultra-marathon runner—someone I hugely respected, though not a close friend—was tragically killed in a road accident while doing what he loved most: running. Crossing a blind corner on a trail, he was struck by a vehicle. His family, devastated, arranged a memorial run to honour his memory by completing the route he never finished.

To call this run “moving” is an understatement. Imagine about 30 runners setting out together for a gruelling 14-mile off-road trail (not for the faint-hearted!)—every one of us carrying a single flower. That flower, tucked awkwardly under my heart-rate monitor, became a symbol: of remembrance, hope, and the fragility of life.

The Eerie Silence Where Tragedy Struck

As we approached the site where he was taken, an uneasy hush fell. We each placed our flowers at the spot. You could feel the gravity—imagine standing where someone’s passion, and life, so abruptly, ended. Even as a seasoned runner, the moment sent chills through me. It was a stark reminder: every step we take is a blessing, not to be taken for granted.

My Biggest Takeaway: Safety Is Everything

Let me be absolutely clear—no matter how experienced you are, NEVER underestimate road safety. I’ve had close calls myself. Don’t become complacent. Run where you’re visible. Check, double-check, and triple-check before crossing roads, especially at blind corners. The few extra metres to find a safer crossing point could save your life. Please, don’t take unnecessary risks.

Why Memorial Runs are Powerful

Running is as much about soul as it is about soul. Today, I watched people go beyond their limits—some completed distances they’d never even dreamt of, just to pay tribute. That’s the unifying power of running, especially when we run for a reason bigger than ourselves. If you ever have the chance to join or organise a memorial run, DO IT. Your steps could mean the world to those who grieve, and in some intangible way, you’re keeping that person’s spirit alive.

Join Me – Let’s Make Every Mile Matter

Every day, I lace up not only to challenge myself, but to help save the lives of children. Whether you’re new to my mission or a loyal supporter, YOU are part of this journey. Please, help us reach the ultimate goal: £1,000,000 for children’s charities, 40,075km, beyond 4,292 days of consecutive running.

How You Can Support:

• Subscribe: Follow the journey and spread the word

• Share: Every share puts us one step closer to saving lives

• Donate: If you’re able, contribute to the cause

Final Thought

Running brought us together to mourn, to remember, to celebrate life. Stay safe, run with purpose, and remember—together, we can change the world, one step at a time.

Let’s keep running. For those we’ve lost. For those, we can still save.

Stay positive, stay happy—and I’ll see you on the next run.

Drop your thoughts in the comments or reach out if you have questions—I reply to every one. And if today’s storey touched you, let’s make sure it reaches more people: share, like, and subscribe.

Together, let’s make every kilometre count.