On Sunday, April 6, 2025, Robin Thompson, a dedicated runner from Essex, is set to embark on an awe-inspiring challenge by running two full marathons in a single day to raise funds for The Crystal Kingdom and The Giving Machine. These two impactful organizations focus on improving children’s mental health and supporting community giving, united by their vision of creating meaningful change.
Robin will kick off his day bright and early at 1:30 AM, running a solo marathon through the quiet streets of Brighton before joining thousands of runners at the starting line of the official Brighton Marathon later that morning. This ambitious effort has already captured the hearts of many, helping his fundraising campaign reach its £1000 goal. The final contribution came from Gwyn Thomas, founder of Bespoke Connections, who generously donated £150 to round out the total. Gwyn will also be accompanying Robin and documenting his incredible feat.
“Running two marathons in one day might seem impossible to some, but it’s a small effort compared to the struggles children face with mental health and the difficulties communities endure trying to support good causes,” said Robin. “I wanted to do something that would inspire, give hope, and show what we can achieve together when we care about one another.”
The funds raised will be shared between The Crystal Kingdom and The Giving Machine to fuel their missions. The Crystal Kingdom delivers critical mental health programs tailored for children and their families, while The Giving Machine empowers communities by providing innovative fundraising solutions to support good causes sustainably.
A spokesperson for The Crystal Kingdom expressed their gratitude, stating, “We are deeply inspired by Robin’s dedication to supporting children’s mental health. These funds will allow us to extend our reach and provide even more resources to young people, ensuring they have the tools to thrive.”
Representatives of The Giving Machine shared similar enthusiasm for Robin’s efforts, adding, “Our mission is to build a giving nation by creating connections between givers, good causes, and businesses. Robin’s challenge exemplifies the power of community and the impact we can all have when we give together. We are incredibly grateful for his support.”
Meanwhile, the Brighton Marathon is set to celebrate its 15th anniversary this year, with around 20,000 participants expected to take part. The race will officially start from Preston Park at 09:45 BST, with the final stretch of the 42.2 km journey ending at Hove Lawns. Road closures began at 06:00, and the Brighton & Hove 10K event will also take place concurrently, drawing even more runners to the vibrant streets of Brighton.
Among the participants is Kristina Goodsell, a contestant from Married at First Sight, who is raising awareness for premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Another competitor, Matt Clayton, plans to walk from Brighton to Paris after completing the marathon and will run the Paris Marathon the following Sunday, April 13, 2025. Since its inception in 2010, more than 150,000 people are estimated to have participated in the Brighton Marathon.
On Saturday, April 5, 2025, hundreds kicked off marathon weekend by participating in the Brighton Miles, an event that saw over 1,500 individuals take part in 16 one-mile waves throughout the day. Athletic heroes David Weir and Chris Thompson were on hand to wave off the starters and award medals to the participants. The first wave began at 10:15 AM, following the regular Preston Park parkrun.
“It was great, and we really enjoyed it,” said Paul, a participant from Lancing, who took part in the first Family Wave with his two children and partner. “I’m going to run tomorrow, but for my sons, this was their first event. It’s definitely inspired us to run more as a family.”
Children with Cancer UK, the Official Charity Partner of the Brighton Miles, also had a wave of more than 125 people. Chris Thompson, an Olympic distance runner and ambassador for the charity, commented, “Today has been about bringing people of all ages and abilities together. It builds excitement for tomorrow’s Brighton Marathon, but also gives people taking part the opportunity to enjoy their first organised event.”
David Weir, Britain’s most successful wheelchair athlete, expressed his delight at the event, stating, “Today has been a great family event at the Brighton Miles. There’s been people from all walks of life, doing their little bit to keep healthy and get active.”
With beautiful weather gracing the event, families enjoyed a day in the sun trying out a variety of activities from local organizations and sports clubs, including martial arts, football, table tennis, and gardening. Tech company CGI was also present, offering participants a chance to experience their virtual reality marathon simulation.
Joe Carter, the Brighton Marathon Weekend Event Lead, remarked, “The Brighton Miles has been an amazing day. We want the Brighton Marathon Weekend to celebrate the city of Brighton and Hove and to provide something for the whole community to be part of.”
As the marathon weekend unfolds, community engagement remains at the forefront, with various activities planned along the routes and during both the 10K and Marathon events. The first-ever official community shakeout run was hosted on Friday, April 4, 2025, inviting 200 people to participate in a run led by the Brighton Table Tennis Club, followed by a pasta party to fuel up for the big day ahead.
Tim Holtam, co-founder of the Brighton Table Tennis Club, shared his excitement about the shakeout run, stating, “It was such an amazing start to the weekend, a really positive celebration. The whole point of Sanctuary Runners is about a collective and building community, and it’s been amazing to see their relationships and their fitness grow as we prepare for the Brighton Marathon Weekend.”
As the Brighton Marathon and its surrounding events kick off, the excitement in the air is palpable, with participants and supporters alike ready to make this a memorable weekend for all involved.
