Not all heroes wear capes — sometimes, they wear running shoes.
As the TCS London Marathon brought the capital to life, five incredible runners took on the challenge in support of the Sunflowers Children’s Action Group, each with their own story but united by one cause.
The charity was fortunate to secure four guaranteed places, proudly taken up by Kate Lane, Chris Lane, Gary Davies and Joanna Holbrook-Morris. Among them, Kate and Chris Lane took on the marathon as a husband-and-wife fundraising team, adding a special personal touch to an already meaningful challenge. Together, the team showed determination, resilience and true community spirit across the 26.2-mile course.
Joining them was a fifth runner, Julia Butler, who secured her place through the public ballot but chose to run for Sunflowers. Inspired by a very special little boy, Noah, she completed the marathon in an impressive 4 hours and 33 minutes while raising an incredible £2,000 for the charity.
The journey to race day has been as inspiring as the event itself. Joanna Holbrook-Morris, who went from non-runner to marathon finisher in just a year, described the experience as “one hell of an emotional rollercoaster”, a reflection of months of dedication, training in all weathers, and sheer determination.
For Gary Davies, the day was about something bigger than the miles. He said:
“This isn’t about running 26.2 miles… it’s about what we can accomplish as a community. I’m proud to be a Sunflower and part of this small team taking part in the TCS London Marathon 2026, supporting Sunflowers Children’s Action Group, a local, volunteer-run charity doing extraordinary work. This effort isn’t about pace, distance or personal achievement. It’s about local people and local businesses stepping forward, demonstrating values, empathy and responsibility when it matters most.”
Across the Sunflowers community, the feeling is one of immense pride and gratitude. Every runner’s effort, whether through a charity place or independent entry, will make a lasting difference to families supported by the organisation.
On behalf of all Sunflowers families, thank you. Today, you are our superheroes.
