Matthew John and Dominic Sinson will set off from Heath Hospital in Cardiff on April 18, aiming to arrive at the start line of the London Marathon eight days later, on April 26. The gruelling journey will see the pair cover the equivalent of multiple marathons across eight consecutive days.
The challenge is being undertaken in aid of Brain Research UK, a charity that funds research into neurological conditions — a cause that is deeply personal for both runners. Matthew’s wife, Megan John, survived a ruptured brain aneurysm, an experience he says changed their lives forever. Dominic, originally from Oxford and now living in Bristol, is running in memory of his father, Brett Sinson, who died following an aggressive brain tumour.
While the physical challenge is daunting, Matthew said the motivation behind the run has kept them focused through months of preparation.
“This isn’t just about endurance,” he said. “It’s about raising awareness and funds for research that can change lives.”
The logistics behind the run have been just as demanding as the training. Planning a route covering more than 200 miles, organising daily support crews and ensuring safe rest points along the way has required months of preparation.
Both men have been putting in high mileage training weeks, alongside a series of testing events to build confidence. Their preparation has included a 50km ultra marathon through the Brecon Beacons, while Dominic, who is married to Matthew’s sister in law Bethan Sinson, has completed a 70km run from Brecon to Cardiff as a key benchmark.
The pair have been sharing their journey on Instagram under the account @matthew_dom_run2london, helping to raise awareness and more than £4,000 so far.
A JustGiving page has been set up, search Matthew and Dom’s fundraiser for Brain Research UK or click here.
As the start date approaches, Matthew says emotions are running high.
“There’s excitement and nerves,” he said. “But this run is about proving you’re capable of far more than you think — physically and mentally — especially when the cause means everything.”
