Double Marathon Ahead For Castlewellan Man

Jon Arnold to run the Belfast and London Marathons for Friends of St Francis PS, Drumaroad

“This double marathon will be an extraordinary challenge I’ve set myself for 2026,” said Jon Arnold.

He is taking on a two-marathon challenge in just one week, all in support of a cause very close to his heart and home.

Jon said: “I will be running both the London Marathon on 26th April and the Belfast Marathon on 3rd May, covering a total of 52.4 miles across two cities within seven days.

“Recovering from the first run will be a bit of an issue but I’m feeling pretty fit now and up for this challenge.

“This ambitious effort is to raise funds for a local school charity, Friends of St Francis, Drumaroad, near Castlewellan.

“This charity is made up of parents, carers, and friends of the school, all dedicated to enhancing opportunities for children within the local community.

“Taking on one marathon is a significant challenge in itself, but completing two in a single week will push me well beyond my comfort zone, both physically and mentally.

“However, knowing the positive impact this will have on the children makes every mile worthwhile.”

Jon is balancing training alongside work and family life, especially with two young boys aged 7 and 5 it has not been easy. He added: “The incredible support from teachers, children of the school, families within the community, and local businesses (including one generous £1,000 donation) has created real momentum behind the challenge.

“With 13 weeks of training already completed and both marathons fast approaching, I would greatly appreciate everyone’s support in helping raise awareness for this worthy cause of enhancing children’s educational experiences and overall development.

Jon explained that every year he completes a run for a charity. To date he has supported charities such as Diabetes UK, and the Cancer Fund for Children and other local charities.

“When I said to the principal of the school I was doing the double run for the Friends of St Francis, he said: ‘Jon, are you mad ?’ But he quickly fell in supporting me on the runs.

“My running friends also applied to the ballot to run in London and I was the only one who was lucky in getting selected.

“My job as a supply chain procurement coordinator keeps me busy from 9-5pm but I have to balance my training with family and weekends etc.

“I was overwhelmed when a local business donated £1000 to my running fund… it was someone who actually doesn’t know me. I’m just taken back by it, and absolutely delighted. It makes it all worthwhile.

“The training is tough, but it’s all for a good cause. I know the kids in the school will greatly benefit from it all. It’ll drive me on. I have two children at the school both 5 and 7. They will be cheering for me!”

You can donate on the safe justgiving link below:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/jon-arnold-3