Ahead of taking on the 2026 London Marathon on April 26th, our Co-Founder Andy Reid MBE presented the match ball on Friday’s Betfred Challenge Cup Quarter Final between St.Helens and Catalans Dragons.
Andy has been training hard over the past few months in preparation for one of the most iconic long-distance challenges in the world, the London Marathon, to raise funds for the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF) and the Standing Tall Foundation. He is hoping to become the first-ever triple amputee to complete the marathon.
The ABF is the Army’s national charity. It provides support to soldiers, veterans, and their families across the country. The money raised for STF will help provide mental health counselling, addiction, housing, and welfare support in our local community of St Helens. Both charities are terrific causes, supporting those in need, and Andy is hoping to raise as much money as he can by taking on this epic challenge.
Andy is one of only 2000 disabled or injured participants taking part out of a total of 60,000 runners. He hopes to inspire confidence in others by promoting visibility, inclusion and diversity. He is living proof that you can break barriers and not be limited by disability, instead advocating for capability, and that anything is possible with determination and a positive mindset.
Andy said about the challenge:
“I’m excited for it! It’s an iconic event, and although it sounds like a lot, only around 60,000 people a year get to take part, so it’s a very small minority who get that opportunity.
“An event like the London Marathon is definitely one you want on your bucket list, and to be doing it now as a disabled, injured veteran is a massive honour.”
There is still time to donate to this epic challenge and show support HERE.
Finally, a massive thanks to his sponsors for the event – Christeyns Food Hygiene, Bannatynes, Hilary Meredith Solicitors, QSE Global, TVS, GKN Aerospace, Morson.
Mental Health 
Housing & Benefits Support 
Addiction & Wellbeing Support