Phil Roberton, founder of the Flawed Hero Movement, shares his experiences setting up the unique Flawed Hero Marathon. It's a 1.66m loop course around Letchworth, Hertfordshire that starts at midnight and it's likely to be the most inclusive marathon in the world...with more of a focus on fundraising than anywhere else.

Find out more about the event here

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have four channels, one on training support, another on fundraising, a third on runner stories and a fourth on events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

• The Flawed Hero Movement was inspired by a personal experience with Phil's daughter.
• Running can be a powerful tool for community connection and mental wellness.
• Fundraising is a core element of the Flawed Hero Marathon, making participants accountable.
• The event emphasises inclusivity, welcoming runners of all abilities and backgrounds.
• Phil provides extensive support and resources for participants beyond just the race.
• The marathon is designed to be a therapeutic experience, not just a competitive one.
• Community engagement is crucial for the success of the event.
• The unique midnight marathon format offers a different perspective on running.
• Phil aims to raise significant funds for charities through the event.
• The Flawed Hero Movement has the potential to expand and inspire similar events globally.

• Running with Purpose: The Flawed Hero Movement
• Phil Robertson's Vision for Inclusive Running

• "I'm a hero to her, but I'm flawed."
• "Life is tough, but we can help others."
• "Fundraising gets quite addictive."
• "It's not just about the running."
• "It's about doing things right."

Take part in one of the big UK running events and chances are you'll see plenty of runners wearing some weird and wonderful costumes. Fancy dress running has grown hugely in the last 20 years and for some charities and businesses it's a big part of their event strategy. On this podcast one of the UK's most successful costume makers give us a great insight into this fascinating world. Join Pete from Jellyhead Studios as he chat to Tim Rogers, a veteran of more than 20 marathons in fancy dress.

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have four channels, one on training support, another on fundraising, a third on runner stories and a fourth on events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

Podcast notes

• Fancy dress running has become a significant part of events like the London Marathon.
• Costume design often stems from charity themes or Guinness World Record attempts.
• Lightweight materials are crucial for comfort during long runs in costumes.
• The design process includes considerations for visibility and practicality.
• Charities benefit from increased exposure and donations through unique costumes.
• Custom costumes can take anywhere from a week to several weeks to create.
• Fittings are optional but can be helpful for specific designs.
• Training in costumes is essential for a successful running experience.
• Unique costume requests can lead to memorable and fun designs.

• "It's a big part of the London Marathon."
• "We've made a lot of bizarre costumes."
• "It's great advertising for charities."
• "Training in a costume is essential."
• "It's a completely different experience."

Join us on episode 1 as International athletics commentator Tim Hutchings travels to some of his favourite race destinations. Commentating on marathons and race meetings means lots of travel and this episode covers the first two months of 2025 when Tim spent much of his time in the Middle East and the sub continent. What are the differences between Mumbai and Kolkata and between Dubai and Ras Al-Khaimah? Find out here.

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have 3 other channels, one on runner stories, another on fundraising and a third on training support. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com

PODCAST NOTES

• Kolkata is a culturally rich city with a unique marathon.
• Giving money to beggars in India can perpetuate the issue.
• The Kolkata 25K is a unique race distance in India.
• India has a growing middle class that is increasingly participating in sports.
• Dubai's marathon is known for its fast course and luxurious setting.
• Event organisation in the UAE is highly professional and well-coordinated.

• "I was very, very lucky to be given this lifeline."
• "You can chat to the athletes and catch up with them."
• "You can't just turn up and go, yes, no, yes, no."
• "You want to make the viewer feel in the environment."
• "Pacemakers should have to drop out."
• "I'm very conscious of the privileged life I lead."
• "Kolkata is a gorgeous city. I love it."
• "It's one of the only 25Ks in the world."
• "There's a massive burgeoning middle class in India."
• "Dubai is a city that's constructed out of the desert."
• "They do an amazing job with these events."