BLC’s ‘fab four’ TCS London Marathon runners tell of their amazing experience
Four runners who completed the TCS London Marathon flying the flag for Burnley Leisure and Culture (BLC) have been speaking of their amazing experience.
“Crossing the finish line was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” said Corey Bellamy, one of three BLC members and one instructor chosen by ballot to represent the not-for-profit local leisure operator after it secured four places in this year’s London Marathon, raising funds for its charity-supported community programme.
Each of the four was challenged to raise at least £1,500 and Corey, who crossed the finish line on The Mall in four hours and 35 minutes (4:35), has so far raised £1,800.
Two of the other runners, Ryan McBreen and John Klee, crossed the finishing line within five minutes of each other, with times of 3:52 and 3:57 respectively.
“It was tough, it was hot, but the crowd and the atmosphere got me to the finish line. What an amazing experience!” says Ryan, a BLC instructor and staff champion, whose fundraising total stands at £1,624.
John, who has raised £2,772 so far, adds: “The atmosphere on the day was brilliant and I really enjoyed the first 20 miles or so, before having to drag myself to the finish line for the last 10k! I had voice notes from my daughter, Jessica, to get me through to the end and I called her after the finish line.”
BLC’s fourth participant, Georgina Beveridge (5:24), says: “My first marathon - what a fantastic opportunity BLC gave me! It was an all-round epic day with full support for 26.2 miles. It was truly amazing to be part of it.”
Georgina’s total currently stands at £720, but she is planning to add to that with ticket sales for a celebratory curry night at the Aroma Asian Restaurant on 11 May.
Alexis Turner, BLC’s Outdoor Activity Co-ordinator, says: “Congratulations to our three amazing members and staff champion Ryan - every penny of the money they’ve raised goes towards making a real difference locally.
“As a not-for-profit organisation, the four places in this year’s TCS London Marathon, along with the four we’ve secured in this iconic event for each of the next three years, is a massive coup for us and an excellent headline opportunity in support of our initiatives.”
The community initiatives benefitting from the marathon effort are:
Walking Back to Happiness – walking-based projects ranging from gentle health walks, themed walks to walking football and netball.
Breaking Barriers, Building Champions – funding for sport-related, talent pathways, subsidised swimming, grassroots and club development support, school sports and more.
Healthy Hearts, Happy Minds – a varied range of sessions, from active adults to SEND dance, that feature inclusive cycling; empowering individuals of every ability to live healthier, happier lives.
Creative and Connected Communities – helping people embrace the great outdoors through BLC’s #OutdoorTown vision, cultural activities, and one-off events.
About 60,000 people took part in this year’s marathon, with all four BLC runners finishing in and around the top half of the field.
BLC will be looking for four more eager fundraisers to enter its TCS London Marathon ballot for the 2027 event. For the latest updates on when it opens, please check BLC’s social channels and website. If you can’t find the information you need, email: [email protected]