With the London Marathon just days away, thousands of runners will be taking on 26.2 miles through the capital – each for their own very personal reason.
We’re incredibly proud of the runners who are part of #TeamCHSF this year, and are pulling on their trainers to raise vital funds for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund.
Meet Andy dad to heart hero Arthur…
What made you choose to run the London Marathon for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund?
“I have wanted to do the London Marathon since I started running and can’t think of a cause closer to my heart than CHSF after the support they gave us when our son Arthur had to have heart surgery in Leeds when he was just 4 months old.”
Can you share a little bit more about your connection to CHSF?
“At a few days old, Arthur was diagnosed with a Ventricular septal defect (VSD) and an Atrial septal defect (ASD) – two holes in his heart – after a nurse noticed he had a heart murmur during some routine observations.
“We were initially told the holes might close in time as Arthur grew but following further scans, we got the news he would need surgery in Leeds which was really scary and upsetting.
“CHSF provided us with information about the procedure Arthur was going to have, what to expect in the run up to and on the day of the operation, and during recovery, which helped with the fear of the unknown.
“Prior to his operation, Arthur was struggling to put on weight. He was given a nasal feeding tube and was on diuretics to help his breathing because he had fluid on his lungs, so it was a really tough time. Despite it all he was such a happy and brave little boy and we had great support from the cardiac team in close to home Sheffield that CHSF helps to fund – especially Cardiac Nurse Specialist Sally Roberts and Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist Daniel Velasco Sanchez.
“Arthur’s surgery was performed by the wonderful Giuseppe Pelella, and we will forever be grateful to him and all the doctors, nurses and staff at Leeds Congenital Heart Unit. CHSF provided accommodation so we could stay onsite for the duration of Arthur’s stay in hospital, which was a great comfort as it meant we could take it in turns to get some rest when we weren’t at his bedside.”
Pictured: Andy with his son Arthur
How has your marathon training gone so far?
“It’s been going well although finding the time to get out running three or four times a week has been a challenge.
“I am training with my friend Ollie who is also running London for CHSF and we do our long runs together at weekends and keep each other going – it’s been great to see his little boy Alex doing so well after his operation too.
“I particularly enjoyed a run round Derwent dam and reservoir on a beautiful early spring morning, and seeing a Kingfisher in Endcliffe park during another early morning outing.”
What’s been the most rewarding part of training? What’s been the most difficult part?
“After the Sheffield Half Marathon at the end of March, a family stopped me to ask for details of how to sponsor me as their little girl (who was excitedly pointing out Katie Bear on my CHSF running top) had had two heart surgeries in Leeds, so that was really nice.
“I also got talking to a mum in the gym whose baby girl had recently had surgery in Leeds and she sponsored us too.
“The hardest part has definitely been the weather – 16 miles in the snow with a bitterly cold headwind and hailstones was not so nice!”
Do you have a goal for marathon day?
“I would love to dip under the 3-hour mark, but I just want to enjoy the day and the atmosphere. I have previously done the Leeds Marathon for CHSF and the support there was fantastic, but London is the most famous marathon in the world so I am really excited to be taking part.
“My mum came to cheer me on in Leeds which was lovely but to have Laura (my wife) and Arthur there this time will make it extra special, and I think some other family and friends will also be supporting along the route so that will be really nice.
Pictured: Andy with Ollie, Tommy Frank and CHSF’s Keely at Sheffield Half Marathon in March
What does supporting CHSF mean to you?
“I never realised how common congenital heart defects are and when Arthur was diagnosed it was such a shock to us. We are so grateful for the support we received from CHSF and I am just really pleased to be able to give a little back to help ensure that other families who have little ones that need heart operations can also receive that help and support. “
Is there anything you’d like to say to the people who’ve supported or sponsored you?
“To everyone who has donated just a massive thank you – this is the third event I have done to raise money for CHSF, and I am really grateful for people’s continued generosity.
“I would also like to say a big thank you to our families for their love and support, you are all amazing! A special mention to Laura for putting up with all the running, for cooking the best post-run meals, and for being an absolute supermum to Arthur.
“And to Arthur – sorry I won’t win the marathon and thank you for always pointing out how sweaty Daddy is when I get back from my runs!”
Where can people donate to your fundraising page?
And finally, what’s your go-to motivational running song?
“I’m Still Standing by Elton John, or ‘Johnny’s song’ (from the film Sing) as it’s known in our house – it’s one of Arthur’s favourites and always reminds me of why I keep going when it starts to hurt!”
A huge thank you to all our #TeamCHSF 2026 London Marathon runners!
We’re so proud of every single one of you and wish you the very best of luck on race day.
With the London Marathon just days away, thousands of runners will be taking on 26.2 miles through the capital – each for their own very personal reason.
We’re incredibly proud of the runners who are part of #TeamCHSF this year, and are pulling on their trainers to raise vital funds for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund.
Meet Tizzie mum to heart hero Bram…
What made you choose to run the London Marathon for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund?
“I’m running for CHSF because they were part of saving my son’s life.
“When Bram was born, we were urgently sent from Grimsby hospital to Leeds Children’s Hospital where, after 24 hours, the hospital said they thought they could fix him.
“Bram needed open heart surgery at 10 weeks old as without that surgery he wouldn’t live. Those 10 weeks waiting for this appointment to come through were very long. Bram’s feeds took at hour for him to drink very little and had to be repeated every 2 hours.
“Following a massive 8 hour operation at 10 weeks old, surgeon Carin Van Doorn fixed our son and changed our lives forever. He went from a grey coloured very poorly baby to a pink glowing baby who could thrive and grow.
“He is now 12 years old and a determined, resilient, confident young man. I want to raise this money to say a very small thank you from us to them.”
Pictured: Bram as a baby, after open heart surgery. Bram now, age 12, skiing
How has your marathon training gone so far?
“I’ve absolutely loved challenging myself. I am a runner and belong to a run club – Prep by Page – but this will be my second ever marathon. I am also running the Manchester Marathon the weekend before!
“Training has been a lot. From getting up in the dark to walk the dogs before running anything from 15-20km every Sunday morning, it has now become my norm.
“I am very proud of myself and when it gets tough I just think ‘if my son can go through what he did I can move my legs a bit longer and further.’“
What’s been the most rewarding part of training? What’s been the most difficult part?
“The PBs. In this training block I got a PB in Leeds 10K Abbey Dash and Scunthorpe Half Marathon but more than that I am proud of my tenacity, dedication to the cause and determination to succeed.
“The most difficult part is questioning if I can make it that far on the day without stopping and walking. But if I do it really doesn’t matter as this is about the money raised not my running.”
Is there anything you’d like to say to the people who’ve supported or sponsored you?
“I would like to shout out Frederick Gough Charities Committee and the school where I work in general. I raised £500 from friends and family and they have raised the rest. They have organised all sorts of different activities and really got behind me. This makes me very proud and incredibly grateful. I find trying to raise money very difficult whereas the Charittees Committee took the challenge and have absolutely run with it. This school is a very special place and I will be thinking of all of their amazing donations on the day.
“I’d also like a thank you to Ryan Page for the most incredible training plan and making me achieve things I never thought possible.
“Finally, the Silvesters: Troy, Gray and Bram – THANK YOU. It isn’t enough but you are the BEST and I love you.”
Do you have a goal for marathon day?
“Under 4 hours is the dream. 3.45 would be unreal. But just finishing and raising money for a charity that means so much to me and my family is the main goal.”
What does supporting CHSF mean to you?
“Everything. It is the least I can do.”
Where can people donate to your fundraising page?
https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/elizabeth-silvester
And finally, what’s your go-to motivational running song?
“Never Forget by Take That – this reminds me of my mum. Special songs make you move.”
A huge thank you to all our #TeamCHSF 2026 London Marathon runners!
We’re so proud of every single one of you and wish you the very best of luck on race day.
With the London Marathon just days away, thousands of runners will be taking on 26.2 miles through the capital – each for their own very personal reason.
We’re incredibly proud of the runners who are part of #TeamCHSF this year, and are pulling on their trainers to raise vital funds for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund.
Meet Mark dad to heart hero Frankie…
What made you choose to run the London Marathon for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund?
“Our son Frankie was diagnosed with a heart condition in 2017, and in 2020 (right in the middle of COVID) he had to undergo open heart surgery. It was the scariest time our family has ever been through.
“Running the London Marathon is my way of giving something back. When you sit in a hospital waiting room while your child is in surgery, you realise how important the support around heart families is. If running 26.2 miles can help raise money to support other families going through that experience, it feels like the least I can do.”
Pictured: Mark on a training run. Frankie in hospital after open heart surgery in 2020
Can you share a little bit more about your connection to CHSF?
“Frankie had major heart surgery in 2020. Watching your child being taken into theatre for open heart surgery is something you never forget.
“Those hours waiting were incredibly hard, but the care and support around heart families makes such a difference. Today Frankie is doing amazingly well – full of energy and personality – and seeing him thrive is something we’ll never take for granted.
“That’s why this cause means so much to our family.”
How has your marathon training gone so far?
“Training has been an adventure in more ways than one.
“Because I travel quite a bit, my runs have taken me to some pretty different places — from early morning runs in London, to squeezing in miles in the Florida heat in Tampa, to getting out along the coast while in Spain. It’s been a great way to see places from a different perspective, even if sometimes it means running very early to beat the heat or the crowds.
“One of the more memorable moments was when I managed to get completely lost on what was supposed to be a routine run. What started as a planned route quickly turned into an unplanned extra few kilometres while I tried to figure out where I actually was. At the time it wasn’t ideal, but looking back it’s part of the fun of marathon training – sometimes you just have to keep running until you find your way home.
“Overall it’s been a mix of great runs, tough runs, and a few unexpected detours, but every mile gets me a little closer to the start line in London.”
What’s been the most rewarding part of training? What’s been the most difficult part?
“The most rewarding part has definitely been having my kids cheer me on. Seeing them get excited about the training and asking how the runs went has been really motivating.
“It’s also been great to see the physical progress – dropping some of that extra weight and feeling myself getting stronger and a little faster each week. Those small improvements really add up over time.
“The hardest part is simply finding the time to fit the training in around everything else going on in life. But the funny thing is that once I get out the door and start running, it usually becomes the most rewarding part of the day.”
Do you have a goal for marathon day?
“Honestly, finishing will be a huge achievement!”
Where can people donate to your fundraising page?
https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/mark-sweeney-chsf
“Today, Frankie is a thriving young lad – full of laughter, obsessed with horses and always on the move. He’s here because he got the care he needed in time. Not every family is as fortunate.
“Your donation, whatever the amount, will help another child like Frankie get their chance at life.”
What does supporting CHSF mean to you?
“It means helping families who are going through one of the most frightening moments of their lives. When your child needs heart surgery, the world suddenly feels very uncertain.
“Knowing there’s support around you – emotional, practical, and medical – matters more than people realise. If I can help provide that support for even a few families, it’s worth every mile.”
Is there anything you’d like to say to the people who’ve supported or sponsored you?
“Just a huge thank you. Every donation, message, and bit of encouragement means a lot to us. It’s not just supporting a marathon run, it’s supporting families who are facing incredibly tough situations. We’re really grateful.”
And finally, what’s your go-to motivational running song?
“It has to be Under Pressure by Queen and David Bowie! It feels fitting in more ways than one. The build-up, the message, the reminder that even under pressure you keep going… it mirrors marathon training (and life) perfectly.
“And when I need an extra surge of energy, it’s Thunderstruck by AC/DC. If that opening riff doesn’t make you pick up the pace, nothing will. Perfect for the final miles!”
A huge thank you to all our #TeamCHSF 2026 London Marathon runners!
We’re so proud of every single one of you and wish you the very best of luck on race day.
With the London Marathon just days away, thousands of runners will be taking on 26.2 miles through the capital – each for their own very personal reason.
We’re incredibly proud of the runners who are part of #TeamCHSF this year, and are pulling on their trainers to raise vital funds for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund.
Meet James uncle to heart hero Arthur…
What made you choose to run the London Marathon for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund?
“In October 2018, CHSF were there for my family when my nephew Arthur had to have open heart surgery at only 8 days old. They helped my family through letting my sister and brother-in-law stay in the onsite accommodation and supported them throughout this really difficult time.
“I ran my first ever marathon for CHSF as at the time it was around 6 months after Arthur had had his surgery, and have taken part in many other fundraising events for them since through running and bucket collections etc.”
How has your marathon training gone so far?
“I’m really enjoying the training, I think it’s going well. I’ve had little niggly injuries and colds etc but that’s all part of it so just being cautious.
“I’m also running the marathon with Arthur’s dad Tom so we’ve managed to do a few long runs together which has been great to have the company “
What’s been the most rewarding part of training? What’s been the most difficult part?
“I love running so the feeling I get after any run is great, but knowing you’re running for CHSF is a great motivator.
“I have two children (a one year old and 4 year old) so fitting the training round them and work schedules can be difficult but I just get out when I can so that I don’t miss out on family time and try make the most of each run.
“My favourite runs are buggy runs with my kids, mainly at parkrun.”
Do you have a goal for marathon day?
“Number one is to enjoy it and soak it all in! I’m always wanting to run to my potential but that all depends on the training, which means I’ll have to do a few runs in my heart costume soon!”
James will be running the London Marathon dressed as a big love heart with the CHSF logo on the front!
He should be pretty easy to spot in the crowd or on TV so if you do see him make sure to give him a big cheer and try to snap a photo.
What does supporting CHSF mean to you?
“It means a lot, giving back for what they did for my family and seeing the great work they continue to do daily for patients and their families!”
Is there anything you’d like to say to the people who’ve supported or sponsored you?
“A huge thank you! The money will go such a long way and help so many families like they did mine!”
Where can people donate to your fundraising page?
And finally, what’s your go-to motivational running song?
“People Watching by Sam Fender, it’s my kids favourite which we dance to in the kitchen daily so it always gives me a boost!”
A huge thank you to all our #TeamCHSF 2026 London Marathon runners!
We’re so proud of every single one of you and wish you the very best of luck on race day.
With the London Marathon just days away, thousands of runners will be taking on 26.2 miles through the capital – each for their own very personal reason.
We’re incredibly proud of the runners who are part of #TeamCHSF this year, and are pulling on their trainers to raise vital funds for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund.
Meet Ollie dad to heart hero Alex…
What made you choose to run the London Marathon for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund?
“I’ve been running for over 10 years and have always dreamed of doing the London Marathon but never made it in through the ballot. I had considered going for a charity place but wanted it to be for a cause that was genuinely special for me.
“Then when my son Alex had heart surgery last summer he and my family received such fantastic support from the Children’s Heart Surgery Fund that I wanted to do whatever I could to raise awareness and money for this wonderful little charity.
“If I hadn’t got a charity place for London I’d have found another event to enter for CHSF, but as it happens I’m able to help CHSF raise funds at the same time as ticking off a bucket list adventure!”
Pictured: Ollie with his son Alex while in hospital, on Ward L51. Alex with his Katie Bear after surgery.
Can you share a little bit more about your connection to CHSF?
“My son Alex was diagnosed antenatally with a right aortic arch with aberrant subclavian artery; initially after birth these didn’t appear to be causing him any issues, but when we started weaning at six months it became clear that he was struggling to swallow solids.
“Eventually it was decided that surgery was required, which he underwent at Leeds General Infirmary in June 2025, when he was 17 months old. The care he received from the doctors, nurses and support staff in Leeds was exceptional, as was the support from CHSF.
“Thanks to CHSF my wife and I were able to stay in hospital accommodation to be close to Alex at all times, rather than driving back and forth between Leeds and Sheffield, and their daily trips to the ward to visit Alex with treats made his (and our) day!
“Nine months post surgery Alex is recovering really well and still loves the Katie Bear that CHSF gave him on discharge.”
How has your marathon training gone so far?
“It’s been eventful – despite being a regular runner I am increasingly injury prone and late last year had to have minor surgery myself to repair an abdominal hernia, which forced me to rest for several weeks and restarted my training from a lower base of fitness.
“It’s always tough marathon training during the cold and wet winter months – I’m hoping that marathon day itself isn’t too hot as I’m not prepared for warm weather running, although I did manage a few short, sweaty runs on a family holiday to Gran Canaria in January.
“One of my good friends, Andy, is also running the London Marathon for CHSF, so we’ve done some of our longer training runs in the Peak District together, which has made them much more enjoyable.”
What’s been the most rewarding part of training? What’s been the most difficult part?
“The most difficult part is heading out on 3+ hour runs on a freezing Sunday morning when all you want to do is enjoy a lie in and leisurely breakfast with your family, particularly after you’ve worked all week and so haven’t spent as much time with them as you’d like.
“And forcing myself to do strength training to avoid injuries when I’d much rather just run!
“But it’s been rewarding to see my fitness slowly coming back after my enforced break following surgery and to discover that I am still capable of running long distances.
“I ran the Sheffield Half Marathon on 29 March (which I do every year), but this year it was a training run rather than going for a fast time – I’m hoping that will be a rewarding experience if it turns out I can hold my marathon pace for that long…”
Do you have a goal for marathon day?
“My main goal is to enjoy the day and take in as much of the atmosphere and experience as possible – I’ve wanted to do this for a decade, and may never do it again, so want to make the most of it.
“That said I am quite competitive and have set myself a challenging goal time which I won’t reveal here in case I’m miles away!
“A few people have promised to increase their sponsorship if I achieve my goal so that’s an extra incentive, but if I can cross the line still smiling that will be an achievement!”
What does supporting CHSF mean to you?
“It means a huge amount – it was a charity I hadn’t heard of before Alex’s surgery, and I’m always keen to help smaller charities that don’t necessarily get the exposure of the major charities that we’re all aware of (I used to be a trustee for a small charity set up by some friends that supports bereaved families and have raised funds for them in the past).
“Having seen how the work of CHSF lifts the spirits of children (and their families) going through really difficult times I think it’s such a worthwhile cause, and knowing that I can help other families going through what we did have a much more (Katie)bear-able experience is going to really motivate me on marathon day.”
Is there anything you’d like to say to the people who’ve supported or sponsored you?
“Massive thank you – I’ve been overwhelmed by how generous people have been, including donations from people that I don’t even know or who I’ve not seen for years.
“Some have even helped by sharing the link on their own social media channels which has been fantastic.
“I was worried about hitting my fundraising target but did so nearly two months before the marathon, so thanks again to everyone who has supported me and wished me luck!”
Where can people donate to your fundraising page?
And finally, what’s your go-to motivational running song?
“I have whole playlists dedicated to running, but without wanting to be too obvious ‘Born To Run’ by Bruce Springsteen always puts a spring(steen) in my step!
“Alex’s favourite phrase right now is ‘Run Daddy, Run!’ which I have engraved on some lace tags on my running shoes and which I will have in my mind through all 26.2 miles on the big day.”
A huge thank you to all our #TeamCHSF 2026 London Marathon runners!
We’re so proud of every single one of you and wish you the very best of luck on race day.
About East Yorkshire Half Marathon & 10K
Sunday 21st June 2026
Skirlaugh, Hull, HU11 4LN
The races follow a road closed loop around West Newton and New Ellerby, just 8 miles from Hull city centre. The courses both follow a flat road closed course, perfect for beginners or running a personal best time. This Run Britain/UKA licensed, officially measured race is open to runners of all abilities.
Join RunThrough for the Half Marathon and 10k set in the scenic and impressive grounds of Burton Constable Hall. This picturesque run takes you along the country lanes of West Newton and New Ellerby.
This closed road route, is scenic, flat and fast. Whether it be your first 10k, or your aiming for a new PB, this course is definitely one to enjoy!
Registration fee: £18
Fundraising pledge: £100
Take on a race in East Yorkshire
and help us keep being there for our heart unit, patients and families!
About Ultra Challenges
Jan – Oct 2026
Various locations across the UK
Join the Ultra Challenge Series in 2026 and help raise funds for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund!
Whether you prefer a stunning coastline or trails through the magnificent countryside, the Ultra Challenge Series offers 20 different events across England and Wales. With distance options from 10km up to the full 100km – there’s an Ultra Challenge waiting for you in 2026.
Take on an Ultra Challenge
and help us keep being there for our heart unit, patients and families!Sign upSign up information
- Choose your location and distance.
- Select your fundraising option. This can be full sponsorship, mixed funding or your own place.
- Choose Children’s Heart Surgery Fund from the list on the sign up form.
- Complete the registration.
- Start fundraising!
Already got your Ultra Challenge place?
Let us know you’re taking part and make a difference!Get in touchWhat you’ll get:
- Children’s Heart Surgery Fund t-shirt to wear on the day of your event
- Tailored training guides
- Digital support pack with fundraising ideas and materials
- Support from our dedicated events team to help you smash your fundraising target
About Flamingo Land 5K & 10K
Saturday 5th September
Flamingo Land Resort, Kirby Misperton, Malton YO17, UK
Take on a unique race experience at the Flamingo Land 5K & 10K, set within the exciting grounds of Flamingo Land Resort. This unforgettable event combines running with the sights and sounds of one of the UK’s most distinctive attractions.
The route winds through the zoo, giving runners the rare chance to pass by incredible animals including lions, tigers, cheetahs, giraffes, hippos and more. From there, the course continues through the theme park, taking you past some of Flamingo Land’s biggest rides and attractions before heading to the finish.
With two distances to choose from, the event is perfect for runners of all abilities looking for something a little different on race day. To make the day even better, your race entry also includes entry into the resort after the race, so you can enjoy the zoo and theme park once you’ve crossed the finish line.
What about family and friends? Spectators can see the event from event village – then can purchase tickets to enter park once open!
Flamingo Land 5K
Cost: £25
Fundraising pledge: £125
Flamingo Land 10K
Cost: £25
Fundraising pledge: £125
Included in the entry: Unique themed medal, Free race photos, Chip-timed results, Post-race goodies
How to take part
Places are offered in partnership with Run for Charity, follow the link below to secure your place today. Already got your own place? Let us know you’re running for CHSF by emailing events@chsf.org.uk!
Sign up for Flamingo Land 5K or 10K
Grab your place in the race and run for a reason in 2026
About Leeds Abbey Dash 10K
Sunday 29th November 2026
The annual event starts and finishes on Wellington Street, Leeds. The route is a flat out and back course perfect for runners of all ages and levels, with a fun atmosphere that makes for a truly memorable day.
Registration fee: £20
Minimum fundraising pledge: £250
How to take part
Book your place in the race with CHSF using the form below. Already got your own place? Let us know you’re running for CHSF by emailing events@chsf.org.uk!
Sign up for Leeds Abbey Dash 2026
To register your interest in Abbey Dash 2027 email events@chsf.org.uk. We hope to launch places for next year’s event in [xxxx] and we’ll be in touch. Thank you.
By signing up to this event you agree to CHSF’s Event Terms & Conditions.
About Leeds Running Festival Half Marathon
Sunday 5th April 2026
Join us for a unique opportunity to run a half marathon in support of CHSF around Roundhay Park in Leeds, one of the biggest city parks in Europe.
Each mile will be accurately marked out and there are plenty of helpers to keep you quite literally on track and encourage you on your way to the finish. Included in your entry fee is a themed medal, water and post-race goodies. Come and enjoy the day with us; we hope to see you there!
Registration fee: £34
Minimum fundraising pledge: Raise as much as you can!
How to take part
Places are offered in partnership with Run for Charity, follow the link below to secure your place today. Already got your own place? Let us know you’re running for CHSF by emailing events@chsf.org.uk!
Sign up for the Leeds Running Festival Half Marathon
Grab your place in the race and run for a reason in 2026