Leeds Marathon and Half Marathon Raise £16,800 for Sue Ryder Charity

This past weekend, the streets of Leeds were filled with runners participating in the Leeds Marathon and Leeds Half Marathon, and many were doing so to support a wonderful cause. Sue Ryder, a charity that provides care for those in need, saw its supporters raise an impressive £16,800, with more donations still coming in. Among the dedicated runners was local resident Ben Feely, who took part in the Leeds Half Marathon in memory of loved ones who were cared for by Sue Ryder.

Ben’s Inspiring Journey

Ben Feely, who secured his spot in the Leeds Half Marathon, shared his motivation for running:

“Having secured my own place in the Leeds Half Marathon, I wanted to use the opportunity to raise funds for Sue Ryder because it’s a cause I think the whole community should get behind.”

On race day, Ben highlighted the tremendous support he received from Sue Ryder:

“The support from Sue Ryder in the lead up to the event and on the day itself was fantastic. The cheer point gave me a much needed boost and really helped me push through those tougher miles.”

Ben found the experience rewarding and plans to return for the next event in 2027:

“It was a brilliant event from start to finish, and I’d absolutely encourage others to join Sue Ryder's team.”

His enthusiasm is infectious, and it underscores the community spirit that events like these foster.

Community Support for Sue Ryder

The fundraising efforts by Ben and others are crucial for Sue Ryder, as the charity relies on donations to provide its services. Rachel Binns, the Regional Fundraising Manager for Sue Ryder, expressed her gratitude for the community's involvement:

“It’s been inspiring to see so many people take on the Leeds Marathon and Leeds Half Marathon in support of our care. Every pound raised helps us continue to be there when it matters for families across Yorkshire.”

This fundraising not only helps the charity but also strengthens the bonds within the community. When individuals come together for a common goal, it can create a sense of belonging and purpose, making events like these much more than just races—they become a celebration of community support.

What’s Next for Sue Ryder?

With £16,800 raised so far and donations still pouring in, Sue Ryder is looking forward to using these funds to continue their vital work. The charity supports families facing life-changing diagnoses by providing palliative care and various services aimed at improving quality of life.

For those inspired by Ben’s story and the efforts of other runners, there may be opportunities to get involved in future events. Participating in charity runs is a fantastic way to stay active while also making a positive impact in the lives of others. Many charities, including Sue Ryder, often have teams that welcome new members who want to run for a cause.

Join the Movement

For anyone interested in joining the Sue Ryder team for future events, it could be a rewarding experience. Not only does it promote physical fitness, but it also connects runners with a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for helping others. The support from fellow runners and charity staff can make a significant difference, especially during challenging moments on the course.

As the Leeds Marathon and Leeds Half Marathon showcased, the power of community and charity can come together in incredible ways. The funds raised will help ensure that Sue Ryder can continue to support families across Yorkshire when they need it most. Events like this remind everyone of the importance of coming together for a good cause, creating lasting memories and positive change in the community.