It takes a lot to run 26.2 miles – way more than I expected when I signed up for my first one in 2012. I swore I’d never do it again…

But ten years later and with twenty one marathons under my belt, here am I am training for the next one!

Having only just returned from Tokyo Marathon, and finally adding Chicago & New York Marathons to my portfolio last year after a long two year pandemic wait, I didn't want to waste any time pursuing my 'six star' finish, so here we are for the finale....

This time, I’m travelling to America for the Boston Marathon.

Why Am I Doing This?

As the world’s oldest annual marathon and one of the best-known road racing events, this marathon is an extra special one for me – it will be my sixth and final World Marathon Major, earning me the title of Six Star Finisher. That means I’ll have successfully run the six major marathons in the world: London, Berlin, Chicago, New York, Tokyo and Boston.

Not only will that be a huge personal achievement, but I’ll reach that milestone while representing Charity Right as an Ambassador and championing their important cause. Because at the end of the day, it’s for children in need all over the world; children who go hungry every day, unable to attend school or break the cycle of poverty.

With Charity Right providing school meals across 8 countries – Yemen, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sudan, Ethiopia, Pakistan, Malawi and Turkey – these children have a chance for a new life, a fresh start.

With more meals and better nutrition, they don’t have to drop out of school to earn money for food and are able to stay in education, which in turn lets them graduate, get a job and break a cycle of poverty for themselves and their communities for good.

This year also marks the tenth anniversary of the 2013 Boston Marathon terrorist attack. Taking part lets me address Islamophobia and show the world that charity and community
are pivotal parts of our faith. And with so few Muslim athletes in the world, it might even inspire others, showing that nothing need stop them from getting involved in outdoor physical activities.

When Is the Boston Marathon?

You might have noticed that this year the Boston Marathon takes place on 17^th April – during the final week of Ramadan, just 6 days before the London Marathon, which I also plan to run insha Allah!

While we’re fortunate enough to fast with the promise of a meal, many children around the world don’t have a choice and are forced with no food on their tables come sunset.    

You can give these children an opportunity for a brighter future today.

£13 provides a month of school meals for one child

£75 provides six months of school meals for one child

£150 provides a whole year of school meals for one child

£600 can provide a year of regular meals for four children

How many children will you help me feed? Let's do this together!

ZAKAT DONATIONS ACCEPTED!

Follow my training and race journey across my social media channels.

I am self funding my flights, accommodation and all other expenses. Your donations to this cause will mean the world to me.

Haroon Mota, Charity Right Ambassador