Pictured Above: Lynn with son Lewis Jenkins and daughter’s boyfriend Josh Hathaway on the Long Walk in Windsor
Samaritans volunteer Lynn Jenkins raised almost £1000 for her local branch in the 2020 “virtual” London marathon.
Lynn, who lives in Forest Park, Bracknell, won a place in the London Marathon ballot that was planned to be run in April this year. Initially disappointed that the Marathon didn’t go ahead, and then that the 4 October London event would be for elite athletes only, Lynn continued training through the summer. She then realised she could after all fulfil her ambition, as the organisers agreed that runners could do it from wherever they were by downloading an app to track and log their time.
She wore her London Marathon number on her green Samaritans’ vest and completed the 26.2 miles personal challenge in very wet weather on a route that included Swinley Forest and Windsor Great Park.
Lynn said: “My training hadn't been as thorough as it could have been, due to the uncertainty of the event and training in the summer heat. The race organisers were supportive in that participants could undertake their virtual marathon in a way that suited them best, whether it was running, walking or a combination of both.
“The atmosphere was definitely different but I had a few supportive car toots in morning which, in all that rain, really lifted my spirits and in the afternoon many people acknowledged and spoke to me about my challenge.
“We must have passed at least 12 other competitors along the long walk in Windsor. “
Director of the Bracknell, Wokingham, Ascot and districts branch, Chris Lindsay, said: “We are so proud of Lynn. It was a fantastic achievement, not only completing a gruelling 26.2 miles challenge but also fundraising almost £1,000 (with Gift Aid) which we are so grateful for.”
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Anyone can contact Samaritans FREE any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit. This number won’t show up on your phone bill. Or you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org.
Samaritans is a charity and it’s the public’s kind donations and more than 20,000 volunteers that mean we are always there for anyone struggling to cope. Find out how you can support us or volunteer with us. You can follow Samaritans on social media on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Anyone can contact Samaritans FREE any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit. This number won’t show up on your phone bill. Or you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit samaritans.org.
- Samaritans is a charity and it’s the public’s kind donations and more than 20,000 volunteers that mean we are always there for anyone struggling to cope. Find out how you can support us or volunteer with us.
- You can follow Samaritans on social media on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.