Bolton woman to run Manchester Marathon in full cricket gear in memory of best friend

"I originally signed up for the adidas Manchester Marathon last summer to try and achieve a personal best," Charlotte explains. "However, in September 2024, my friend David died of a heart attack at just 32 years old. The loss was devastating. David always believed in me and had a huge personality. To honour him properly, I knew I had to do something big, something that would push me to my absolute limit. Taking part in full cricket kit felt like the right way to do that."

Charlotte and David met at Durham University and remained close friends for over a decade. David's sudden passing spurred Charlotte to dedicate her marathon effort to his memory and to raise money for the British Heart Foundation. "David loved watching and playing cricket, and the more ridiculous the challenge, the more likely people are to donate. It feels right to honour him this way."

With two marathons under her belt already, Charlotte is familiar with the demands of the distance. However, adding the extra weight and restriction of cricket equipment presents a unique and tough obstacle.

Adding an extra layer of significance to her already incredible endeavour, Charlotte will be part of the UK's largest ever day of running on April 27th, as the adidas Manchester Marathon and TCS London Marathon coincide for the first time. She's confident this unprecedented atmosphere will drive her forward: "Having run the adidas Manchester Marathon before, I know how amazing the vibe is! The crowds are so incredible the entire way round, and I'm really excited about the new finish line in the centre of town! Being local also means I'll have great support on the day. Plus, the flat route finishing so close to home will be a blessing at the end, especially running in all this gear!"

Charlotte is determined to complete the gruelling challenge to raise as much money as possible for the British Heart Foundation in David's name. "The work they do is lifesaving, and the fact that the money I am raising could help prevent a similar tragedy feels incredibly important."

Preparation for this extraordinary challenge has been demanding, requiring Charlotte to undertake long training sessions in her full cricket attire. "My friends and family have been a phenomenal support," she says, highlighting how they’ve even joined her in her training to offer encouragement.

Despite the physical and emotional challenges, Charlotte remains resolute. "I keep thinking about what David would say to me and how I'll feel when I cross the finish line. It will be a bittersweet day, but seeing the fundraising total rise keeps me motivated."

Her primary goal for race day is simply to finish. "I do not care at all how long it takes me, as long as I get to that finish line in my cricket kit!"

On race day, Charlotte will be cheered on by her family and friends, which she’s certain will give her an extra boost of energy as she starts to tire.

Charlotte will be one of many set to make history on 27th April as for the first time ever the adidas Manchester Marathon and the TCS London Marathon will take place on the same day, creating the UK’s largest ever day of marathon running, with over 90,000 people taking part across both events.