At United Through Sport, every mile run, every finish line crossed, and every endurance challenge completed represents far more than sport. It represents opportunity, empowerment, and lasting impact for young people across our global sport-for-development programmes.
As we reach the halfway point of 2026, we are proud to celebrate incredible achievements and share our mid-year fundraising update. From the London Marathon charity runners, to Ironman fundraising challenges, and inspiring volunteer-led Miles for Smiles initiatives, this year has already demonstrated the powerful connection between sport and social impact.
Don’t miss out on your chance to run the 2027 London Marathon for United Through Sport. Further details below.
London Marathon Charity Runners, Scenic Half Marathons & 70.3 Ironman Finisher
The year began with an outstanding effort as a team of three charity runners took on the iconic London Marathon fundraising challenge. Covering 26.2 miles through the capital, they pushed through every step with determination, raising vital funds to support children and communities across our global programmes.
Shortly after, Mycka Bogert completed the scenic Iseo Half Marathon in Italy, turning personal endurance into collective impact and helping to unlock new opportunities for young people through sport and education.
Adding to this momentum, Benjamin Herring successfully completed the demanding Durban Ironman 70.3. From swim to bike to run, it was a true test of resilience and commitment that reflects the spirit of our mission.
Miles for Smiles: Volunteer Fundraising Challenges in South Africa & Saint Lucia
Across our programmes in South Africa and Saint Lucia, our volunteers continue to make a powerful impact through our Miles for Smiles fundraising challenges.
Groups of volunteers, on international sport development placements, have come together throughout the year to complete shared distance goals. Whether running, jogging, or swimming, they show up to support one another while raising funds for community sport development projects.
These initiatives highlight that in charity fundraising, impact is not only measured in miles covered, but in connection, teamwork, and the lives changed along the way.
The Impact of Your Charity Fundraising
Every pound raised through our fundraising community directly supports long-term development through sport. Thank you to our 344 donors who have supported fundraising initiatives this year so far!
Your donations help provide:
- Access to sport for disadvantaged children
- Gender empowerment through coaching and leadership programmes
- Education and life-skills development
- Community-led sport-for-development projects across Africa and the Caribbean
When you take on a charity running challenge or endurance event, you are not just fundraising. You are creating life-changing opportunities.
Take on a Fundraising Challenge of Your Own
If you are inspired to take on your own charity running challenge, marathon, or endurance event, we would love to hear from you.
Through our fundraising scheme, you can fundraise for your place in almost any event (subject to availability). Whether you are interested in a marathon, including London Marathon, , half marathon, Ironman, or overseas challenge, we can help match you to the right opportunity.
We will support you to:
- Choose an achievable fundraising target
- Secure your place in your chosen event
- Guide you throughout your fundraising journey
Get in touch today to start your charity fundraising journey.
Looking Ahead: Charity Fundraising Events in 2026/2027
With the second half of the year still ahead, there is so much more to come from our global fundraising community.
To every runner, walker, donor, volunteer, and supporter, thank you. Your commitment is helping to build brighter futures through sport.
Together, we don’t just raise funds. We create opportunity, empowerment, and lasting change.
To run London Marathon 2027 register here!