Not content with running 366 marathons last year – one each day – a former Beacon Academy student has now crowned the achievement by completing the London Marathon at the weekend.
James Cooper, who took on the astonishing feat last year to raise money for the Samaritans after his uncle took his own life, described finishing in Sunday’s heat as “the most fitting way to close the book” on his fundraising mission.
And he was even able to enjoy the experience alongside comedian and celebrity Romesh Ranganathan. “Getting to share the experience with Romesh is something I’ll never forget. No matter how tough things got, Rom kept putting one foot in front of the other – never once failing to acknowledge the incredible crowd. Character and class personified.”
He said the race had been an emotional one. “I’m unsure whether on the cusp of heat stroke or deeply moved, I ran so many miles with goosebumps. The atmosphere is something that words simply cannot do justice.”
James thanked all the people who have supported his amazing fundraising feat which has so far collected £134,000 excluding gift. “Thanks to everyone who has supported the Smilinggg 366 mission. To be sitting at £134,100 for fills me with the deepest sense of pride.”
If you want to support James the fundraising page will remain open until 17th May.https://www.justgiving.com/page/smilinggg366