Later this month, a number of Fulham fans are participating in the Vitality Big Half Marathon, in support of Fulham FC Foundation. A gruelling physical test of just over 13 miles around some of London’s most scenic locations, our runners have been busy getting up to speed and back to peak running form post lockdown.
We spoke with David and Robin Lassiter, two of our willing runners, to learn more about their motivation for running and how they’ve been preparing for the event. Both Robin and David are long standing fans of Fulham, season ticket holders and self-avowed members of the #FulhamFamily who signed up for the Half Marathon after seeing the opportunity on fulhamfc.com.
David, 21, says that for him, running is in the blood. “My Dad gave me the running bug. He’s always been an avid runner, completing lots of different races including the London Marathon, so it would have been pretty hard not to get into my running.”
David’s enjoyment of running, and the obvious health benefits, drive him to complete the miles: “It’s always been one of my goals to complete a half marathon and then a full marathon, so this race will be a big step in my running journey.”
Signing up to run for Fulham FC Foundation has also helped him learn more about the wide range of projects the Foundation delivers in our community - “They do lots of amazing work with lots of different young people!”
For Robin, 64, his Vitality Big Half challenge is the first such running endeavour he has faced. “I am a novice as this is my first run other than parkrun!” In lieu of that ‘track record’ Robin has committed to a strict training regime in preparation for the big run.
Modestly he says it is the work of Fulham FC Foundation that motivates him. “I am not an athlete so this will be a big challenge for me, but it will be worth it to support such a great cause.” Robin is no stranger to the work of the Foundation through his own family connection – “When my youngest son was little he used to attend the Soccer School courses run over the school holidays”.
While David and Robin are busy preparing physically for the half marathon, they’ve also been active in fundraising, each have set up a JustGiving link where friends and family have been generously donating to spur our athletes on.
To support Robin and David’s efforts in the Vitality Big Half, on Sunday 22nd August, please follow the links to their JustGiving pages below:
To find out more about Fulham FC Foundation or become a supporter please see below.
