The RFU Injured Players Foundation (IPF) enjoyed another successful London Marathon on Sunday 27th April, as 26 runners helped the charity raise over £55,000 as they ran 26.2 miles around the capital’s streets.
The money raised will go towards the provision of vital support for those players who sustain life-changing injuries whilst playing rugby union in England. Life-changing injuries include those which result in the loss or use of a limb, catastrophic spinal cord injuries or acute, severe traumatic brain injuries.
IPF Director, Dr Karen Hood, who was there to greet the runners at the IPF’s Post Race party commented: “We are so grateful to all of our 26 runners who battled some very warm conditions on today’s course to raise vital funds for the IPF.
“It’s no mean feat running a marathon, let alone all the training through the cold, dark winter months and we appreciate each and every one of our supporters for all the effort they put in and the money they have raised as well. That’s why, very much like our approach as a charity, we build relationships with all of our runners and offer support for training and fundraising and are there to cheer them on the day.
“The London Marathon is one of our biggest fundraising events of the year and is integral to being able to deliver the service and programmes we do for our members as well as fund research which aims to reduce the incidence or impact of catastrophic injury within our sport. We are so proud of all of our runners for helping us continue with this vital work.”
Amongst the 26 runners was IPF Member Spencer Wadsworth who sustained a life-changing injury in October 2023 playing for his university team. He ran the 26.2 miles in 4:05 and afterwards said:
“That was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done! The first half was ok, but then I got quite emotional as I saw my family around the 22-mile mark and then I just wanted to get to the finish line. It was quite hot today as well, which made things tougher. I’m so glad I did it, but not sure I’ll be doing another one anytime soon!”
Huw Shopland was the first IPF runner to finish, securing an incredible time of 3:30, closely followed by David Burkhart and Darren Belmont, who both crossed the line in 3:32. Darren was running as part of the TEL (Twickenham Experience Ltd) quartet who all absolutely smashed the run and their fundraising target raising nearly £9,000 for the Foundation. After the run they said:
“We’re so delighted to have got round today and raised a meaningful amount for an incredible cause. Working at the Allianz Stadium and being a part of the rugby community, we see first-hand the impact of the work of the IPF, and we couldn’t think of a better charity to run and raise money for.”
Also running were Sally Oakden, who was taking on her third, and final, London Marathon for the charity alongside Shannon Gates, Charlotte Gibbons and Caroline Bullock. After the race Shannon commented:
“I have loved running for the IPF this year as I really felt part of a family. The Foundation has given me so much support for fundraising and I got to go to the Allianz Stadium for their Rugby Runners Day in January where I got some great advice on nutrition and training. I have really felt part of something and for that I feel very grateful!”
The IPF’s post-race party was once again held at the QEII Conference Centre, close to the finish line and provided a welcome space for the runners and their friends and family to meet after the gruelling 26.2 mile run. The runners were treated to massages while the QEII Centre sponsored the food for the party.
Attention now turns to the 2026 London Marathon with preparations already underway for next year’s event. If you feel inspired to lace up your trainers and run for an incredible cause, click here to race for the IPF.
