Marco McKerlie Runs the TCS London Marathon for Building for the Future

We’re thrilled to announce that our first ever London Marathon runner is Twyford-based athlete Marco McKerlie.

At 25-years-old, the PhD student, lifeguard at David Lloyd Clubs Reading and member of Reading Roadrunners will run one of the world’s most iconic races in aid of disabled children and young people at Building for the Future.

“I’ve been trying to get into the ballot for years,” Marco said. “So when I finally got a place, I was absolutely delighted. It still feels a bit surreal.”

Already an experienced Marathon runner, Marco has previously completed races in Athens, Geneva, Abingdon and Seville. Despite that background, however, London feels different.

“It’s not so much the running that makes me nervous, it’s the scale of it,” he said.  “It’s about three times bigger than any Marathon I’ve done before. But I’m really excited too.”

Running for a Local Cause

Marco chose to support Building for the Future because of a close local connection. Living in Twyford, he was already aware of the charity’s presence and impact in the community so he is thrilled his London Marathon debut will be raising money for a local good cause.

David Lloyd Clubs Reading, where Marco works and trains, has also chosen Building for the Future as its charity partner.

Its premises neighbour our new play therapy centre at Thames Valley Park and they have made us feel very welcome. The connection has helped to boost support, with Marco already raising £345 and planning further fundraising activities.

One upcoming highlight will be an endurance treadmill challenge at David Lloyd Clubs Reading to help generate more donations and awareness.

“It’s fantastic to have the support. I’ve been amazed at how generous people have been already,” said Marco.

Training Through the Miles - Whatever the Weather

Training has been going well overall with Marco building up his runs and using events like the Wokingham Half Marathon as preparatory races.

And when it comes to classic British weather?

“You can only get so wet,” he said. “After about ten minutes in the rain you just accept it, embrace it and focus on the run.”

His race-day routine is simple - especially before long, Sunday runs:

“Two slices of toast with jam and honey. That seems to do the trick.”

Race Day Goals

Marco will have strong support on the day from friends, family and his girlfriend cheering him on in London’s Hyde Park. As for targets, he’s aiming high:

“I’d love to go under three hours. I haven’t done that before, but I think it’s achievable. Mostly though, I want to enjoy it and finish strong.”

We’re incredibly grateful to Marco for taking on this challenge in support of Building for the Future. His support and that of his community and colleagues is helping us to provide vital play therapy services for disabled children and support for their families.

If you’d like to support Marco on his London Marathon journey, every donation and message of encouragement makes a real difference. https://www.justgiving.com/page/marco-mckerlie-ldn26