Meet our amazing London Marathon 2019 runner

13 Feb 2019

Every year, The Wallich hosts a free charity ballot for the Virgin Money London Marathon. Runners apply by outlining why they want to run the marathon, why they chose to run for a homelessness charity and how they plan to raise funds.

The London Marathon is a renowned race that sees more than 40,000 participants each year. The impressive 26.2 course shows off the landmarks of London, including the Tower of London, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace. 

Following an impressive proposal, Amy Davidson from Bridgend was crowned the lucky winner of the 2019 race place. 

As she gears up to represent homelessness in Wales, here’s a little more about Amy and how her marathon training is progressing. 

Why did you choose The Wallich?

My mum has volunteered with the outreach team at The Wallich for around 7 years helping with the weekend Breakfast Run in Bridgend, so I knew of the vital work carried out by The Wallich 

When I ran Cardiff Half Marathon in October I was shocked by the number of visible homeless people in and around the capital. I wanted to be able to use my next race to raise awareness and funds to help prevent this”. 

How are you raising funds?

“I have hosted or planned a variety of events – cakes sales, raffles, quiz nights and sweepstakes.  

In March I am hosting #MarchMarathon – a virtual run. March will be my peak month where I am really increasing the miles ready for the London Marathon at the end of April.  

I am asking friends, family and colleagues to join me in running, jogging or walking 26.2 miles throughout March – this doesn’t need to be done in 1 hit, it can be done in less than a mile a day.  

Everyone who completes the challenge will get an awesome medal for their hard work!!  (if anyone would like to take part please get in touch)”. 

How can people donate to you?

“People can donate via my Just giving page or by attending any of my events“. 

What is your training plan?

“I am a regular runner, I run with the Pencoed Panthers. 

Last year, I completed four half marathons and I keep my fitness levels up by running 10+ miles most weekends, plus running 3-4 times in the week.  

I also regularly attend Porthcawl parkrun.  

To complete the marathon I am following a plan. This is a 16 week plan and it involves increasing my weekend long run by approx. a mile each week (I am currently up to 14 miles). I have also increased my training during the week adding extra distance and effort sessions.  

I have started going to a Pilates class to ensure that my body can recover” 

How your training is going?

“My training is going great. I am so excited to be doing the London Marathon.  

At the end of January, like most of the country, I was hit with a horrible cold but as I’m starting to feel  better I am ready to start putting the big miles in.  

On the 10th February, I gave my Wallich running vest a test drive at the Llanelli half marathon”. 

What are you most looking forward to at the London Marathon? 

Everyone I’ve spoken to that has completed the London Marathon says it is a once in a lifetime experience.  

I can’t wait to take part and tick it off my bucket list. But most importantly raise as much money as possible to help support and prevent homelessness in Wales“. 

If you’d like to follow Amy’s training journey or find out about any of her events/challenges, follow her social channels. 
Twitter – @AmyVLM2019

Instagram - @AmyVLM2019

Donate now and help Amy meet her fundraising target of £1,500

Do you want to take on a new challenge to raise money for a homelessness charity? Visit our Fundraising page or email dosomething@thewallich.net now.

Related Pages