At Your Workspace, we are all about teamwork, commitment and personal growth – values that extend far beyond the office. On 29th September 2024, two of our team members, Ellie and Dawn, embodied these principles by completing the Maldon Half Marathon! Their remarkable achievement has become a source of inspiration for all of us and we want to celebrate their journey in true Your Workspace fashion.
The Journey to the Starting Line
Ellie was inspired to take part in a run after watching the 2024 London Marathon, and Dawn suggested that the Maldon Half Marathon would be a nice local one to participate in.
After booking their places, they decided that raising money for charity would keep them motivated and dedicated to completing this challenge.
When asking Dawn about the reasons for choosing this charity, she said, “Unfortunately, like many others, cancer has affected my family, close friends and colleagues in ways I never imagined. Watching my loved ones battle this disease has been both heartbreaking and inspiring. Their strength and determination has given me a drive to contribute in raising funds in any way I can. By taking part in this half marathon, myself and Ellie hope to raise awareness and much-needed funds for research that can help find better treatments and, ultimately, a cure. Every mile is dedicated to those fighting cancer, those surviving cancer, and to the memory of those we’ve lost along the way. To us it was more than just a run; it’s a step towards hope, for not only our families but countless others.”
Both had juggled their work schedules, personal commitments and the demands of training for months leading up to the race. Long runs, early mornings and moments of fatigue became routine, but their goal of completing the 13.1-mile race never wavered.
Race Day in Maldon
The picturesque town of Maldon, known for its coastal views set the perfect backdrop for the half marathon. The course was scenic but challenging, starting and finishing at the Plume School and winding through the country lanes. Ellie and Dawn both expressed their excitement and nerves as they lined up with many other runners, but they were ready to give it their all.
“The atmosphere in Maldon was incredible!” said Dawn. “There were people in various streets, cheering everyone on and handing out sweets to keep us going. As a bonus, some of our colleagues also pitched up throughout the route, and the course was stunning with the countryside views. It was the perfect setting for our first half marathon.”
Triumph at the Finish Line
After more than two hours of running, Ellie and Dawn crossed the finish line in Maldon, arms raised in triumph and with rather red faces. It was a moment of pure accomplishment and emotion – both for completing the race and thinking about the reasons that led them there.
“Not only did I get a medal, but my lashes stayed dry,” Ellie said. “It wasn’t just about completing the half marathon, but everything it represented – the training, the support from the Your Workspace team, and the way we never gave up – as much as we wanted to! I’m so glad we did this to help raise money for such an important cause.”
Celebrating the Win!
We’re proud to celebrate their success and look forward to seeing how they continue to inspire others. Congratulations, Ellie and Dawn!