Somerset sisters run three marathons in three weeks

Rebecca and Sarah Martin, originally from Somerset but now living in London, have set themselves the ambitious challenge of running three marathons in just three weeks in April 2011, in aid of the Queen Elizabeth Foundation

Sarah and Rebecca were both born and educated in Somerset, going to school in Enmore, Catcott and at Millfield. Their parents now live in Kilve where the girls are regular visitors.

During their school days, both girls enjoyed participating in a range of sporting activities, representing their schools in several areas. As well as both playing hockey and netball, Sarah competed in several local tennis tournaments whilst Rebecca was particularly involved in Orienteering which took her as far afield as France and in which she represented Somerset on several occasions. After leaving school, Rebecca and Sarah continued with their sporting involvement both at university and beyond.

The sisters are not new to running marathons and have previously run a total of seven between them. This year they wanted to push the boundaries further and complete not one, not two but three races in just three weeks. The first race takes place in Sussex on April 3rd, followed by Suffolk on April 10th and finishing with the London Marathon on April 17th. So, why are they doing this you may ask yourself? It’s all in the name of charity. The sisters are raising money for The Queen Elizabeth Foundation based in Leatherhead, Surrey.

The Queen Elizabeth Foundation works with people living with physical and learning disabilities or acquired brain injuries to gain new skills and increase independence. Whether it’s learning everyday life skills, rebuilding a life affected by brain injury, or training for future employment, the QEF supports disabled people to achieve goals for life. Sarah is directly involved with the foundation where she teaches an exercise class once a week to its residential members to help with their mobility and rehabilitation.

Sarah Martin, aged 33 now living in Surrey, is founder of Ladies at E11even which has the sole purpose of empowering, educating and supporting Women in Business. It’s inaugural group was founded in Weybridge. There are now 14 groups across Surrey and Kent. Sarah's background is in the fitness industry and she set up Ladies at E11even after joining several networking groups and becoming disillusioned with the service offered.

When asked what the reasons were behind the 3 marathon challenge, Sarah said:

“I have been teaching at the QEF for over a year and it is a truly fantastic place. The clients and the staff are an inspiration. I decided that running the marathon would be a great way to fundraise but because I have run a few before it can be hard asking people for money all the time. I thought it would be a good idea to do something a bit different meaning that people might be more willing to sponsor us plus it’s more of a challenge and it’s always good to challenge yourself both physically and mentally!!”

Rebecca Martin, aged 28 who lives in Wandsworth, used to work with both adults and children with severe learning disabilities and has always been passionate about helping those individuals lead as much as an independent life as possible.

All monies raised will go directly to the foundation. Jacqui Walford, QEF Director of Fundraising said;

“Rebecca and Sarah have set themselves a stiff challenge and we wish them every success and welcome their support. In this time of funding cuts every step they run makes a real difference to someone’s life.”

To make a contribution or to find our more information about the Martin Sisters, visit: www.justgiving.com/themartinsisters