Thanks to Calsey Thorne for sharing news about this Isle of Wight runner. In their own words. Ed
On the 15th April Isle of Wight ‘Barefoot’ runner Stephen Goodier will be taking part in the Brighton Marathon to raise money for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, a nationwide charity based on the Isle of Wight which takes young people recovering from cancer sailing to help them rebuild their confidence after long periods of treatment.
Stephen will line up with more than 13,000 other people to run the 26 miles; he explains why he decided to support the Trust, “It’s a local charity that I’ve worked with before. I know the huge difference that they make to young people with cancer through sailing and I like to be part of making a difference.”
Background on Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust
The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust was launched in 2003 by Dame Ellen MacArthur; to support young people aged 8-24 on their way to recovery from cancer and other serious illness. The Trust offers four day sailing trips, a great opportunity for these young people to test themselves in a safe and supportive environment.
The trips can be a huge step forward in regaining the independence often lost during long periods of hospitalisation.
Target of £800
Stephen is aiming to raise at least £800 for the Trust by completing the entire marathon using the ‘barefoot running’ method, a specialised running technique he and his wife Emma train in.
Emma explains further, “Barefoot running encourages runners to return to their natural running form – soft gentle landing that protects knees and hips. Trainers are a very new invention; humans weren’t designed to run with cushioning that prevents the natural feedback from the ground. It’s not about speed or personal bests it’s about running for the pure enjoyment of an easy natural gait. We’ve been doing it for about ten months now, although the really cold snaps have made the training a little more challenging.”
Originally planning to run the marathon alongside Stephen, Emma had to withdraw due to injury.
Other fundraising events
However Emma and Stephen have also organised two other fundraising events for the Trust over the Easter weekend.
Saturday 7th April they are holding a Yoga Brunch, where you can enjoy a great stretch and evoke a sense of connection with the community during a yoga practice with some delicious brunch to follow.
Sunday 8th April take part in the Easter Fun Pizza Dash, a 5km fun run from Nettlestone followed by some homemade pizza from the wood fire oven.
Details of all fundraising and events can be found on their Just Giving page.
