When we asked Zoe why she chose to run for Outward Bound, her answer was deeply personal and we were so pleased that she shared
Her son has faced challenges from a young age - diagnosed with anxiety and Tourette’s at just four and a half. Like any parent, Zoe wanted to support him in every way possible, but she also wanted to channel that experience into something meaningful.
“I didn’t want to run for just any charity, I needed something I could truly connect with.”
Outward Bound felt like the right fit. The chance to help young people build confidence, get outdoors, and experience things they might not otherwise have access to and it resonated. Especially because Zoe has seen first-hand how much support matters. After receiving help themselves, Zoe and her family wanted to give something back so other children could benefit too.
At home, she’s mum to two - an 11-year-old son and a 14-year-old daughter - and like she says, “all kids deserve opportunities.”
So, why the London Marathon?
For Zoe, it’s simple: “I’m running for my kids—and for myself. It’s a lifelong dream.”
Despite having completed six virtual marathons before, this will be her first major event of this scale. No headphones, no solo route - just the crowds, the atmosphere, and that iconic finish line.
“I’m most looking forward to running down The Mall,” she says. “Just being immersed in it all.”
Fundraising: from daunting to doable
Let’s be honest, fundraising can feel overwhelming at first. Zoe had previously raised around £350, so taking on a marathon target of £2500 was also a marathon!
Her secret? Planning, persistence, and a willingness to get a bit creative.
“The key is to stay focused and get your events in the diary early,” she explains. “And keep yourself accountable.”
From bingo nights in local village halls to bake sales at her sports centre, Zoe threw herself into it. She discovered that people love to feel like they’re getting something in return - whether that’s a fun evening out or a slice of homemade cake.
Some highlights:
- Bingo nights with raffles, games, and “just an extra pound” moments that really add up
- Bake sales raising £300–£350 in just four hours (powered by generous friends and family bakers)
- Seasonal raffles, complete with themed prizes and public draws, bringing in another £200–£300
Zoes top tip: “Keep your QR code everywhere. Make it as easy as possible for people to donate.”
Not everything went perfectly - Zoe planned a quiz night too close to a bingo event and had to cancel due to low turnout. But even that came with a lesson: space your events out and give each one room to shine.
Training for the Big Day
Zoe is refreshingly honest about her running.
“I’m not a natural runner,” she laughs. “People assume I must be really good, but I just love how I feel afterwards.”
“It’s a big time commitment. You really need support around you.”
Zoes Top Tip: Fuel properly – I use Carb gummies and Tailwind powder for my water
The final countdown
With just days to go, the nerves are kicking in.
“I’m excited - but the butterflies are crazy,” she admits. “It feels very different” to the virtual London Marathon.
Zoe’s advice for future runners
If you’re thinking about taking on the marathon for Outward Bound next year, Zoe has some brilliantly practical advice:
- Follow a plan - but make it your own: Don’t get caught up in what everyone else is doing
- Fuel properly: Especially on long runs
- Use your tools: QR codes, training apps, anything that keeps you on track
- Stay focused, but also just enjoy it
“Believe in your plan, it will work for you.”
More to discover
Going the extra mile
They’re back on the water
Linda’s London Marathon Journey
