When Beth travelled to Port Elizabeth, South Africa, in August 2022, she joined United Through Sport’s mission to transform lives through sport, empowerment, and opportunity. What started as a short-term volunteering placement quickly turned into a lasting commitment – and, as Beth jokes, “UTS just can’t seem to get rid of me!”
Her next challenge is all about giving back. Beth will run the London Marathon in April 2026, taking on a running event every month in the lead-up, from fun runs to ultra-marathons, to raise vital funds and awareness for United Through Sport. For her, it’s not just about crossing finish lines, but about making sure more children have the chance to access sport, education, and brighter futures.
Beth’s Story
“I first volunteered for UTS back in August/September 2022 in Port Elizabeth, South Africa – also referred to as one of my favourite places on the planet – coaching sports in townships. My first time out there I coached netball, a sport I have played and loved for years. The experience was second to none. UTS uses sports as a tool to improve education, raise awareness about topical issues, give children opportunities such as after-school clubs and scholarships, all while helping kids’ mental and physical health – whilst having fun of course!”
“After my first trip, I knew my journey with UTS couldn’t end there. Not because of the lifelong friends I had made or the fun excursions on offer, but because of the difference I made and the connections with some of the kids I built along the way. So, my fundraising began. Through University of Exeter boxing, I organised mass charity boxing events sponsoring UTS and continued to help develop relations between the charity and the university.”
“Still, it wasn’t enough. I had to go back – and this time, bring along my boyfriend James. To fund our flights, we ran the Madrid Marathon, which began our love for long-distance running.”
“The second time around in August 2024, I knew what I was expecting and how to make an even bigger impact. Between myself, James, and Morgs, we ran South Africa’s first boxing programme, simultaneously working with VIP Boxing to further our reach in the community. We donated kit and resources to use boxing as a way to help teach kids not only self-defence, but discipline, control, and positive outlets.” Read about Beth’s boxing trip here.
“I initially volunteered at UTS after losing my Granny in late 2023, whom I lived with due to a difficult family situation. I personally needed a positive reset and to see more of the world – but what I got was so much more. I have faced similar adversities to kids I met in South Africa. However, because of where I live, the resources I had access to gave me opportunities that allowed me to get where I am today. United Through Sport is a spectacular charity that bridges some of that gap by providing these kids with vital resources.”
“It’s a cause I am proud to be part of every day, and now also to run the London Marathon for! From the 9th of August 2024 all the way to the 26th of April 2026, I’ll be running an event every month – including fun runs, half marathons, and ultra-marathons all over the UK – with a lot of friendly faces joining me along the way. UTS is a cause I believe in and would run through all the pain for, so please, if you can, donate and support my journey!”
Kicking Off the Challenge
This Saturday, 9th August 2025, Beth and her younger sister Maisie will take on the very first event in the series: the Exeter Inflatable 10K. The course features a 2.5K loop of inflatable obstacles, providing a fun and energetic start to Beth’s fundraising campaign – and setting the tone for the months ahead.
Follow Beth’s Journey & Support the Cause
You can keep up with Beth’s monthly challenges and marathon training on Instagram at @beths_road_to_london & @unitedthroughsport and support her fundraising for United Through Sport by donating to her campaign. Every step we take together helps create more opportunities for young people through the power of sport.