Story added: 30th October 2025

Marathon Man

When it comes to determination, Simon Ludkin, is going the distance – literally. As a regular volunteer in the Foundation’s MyClub volunteer programme Simon is no stranger to a challenge. Over the last ten years he has helped to facilitate many of the Foundation’s challenge events throughout the year such as Race Against the Sun and the Three Peaks Challenge.

However, this  year, Simon has stepped it up even further by setting himself the remarkable challenge of walking a marathon every single week throughout 2025. All with the aim of  raising vital funds for the Foundation.

We caught up with Simon earlier in the month to understand more about his motivation behind the challenge and how it’s going. For Simon, walking has always been a source of strength and renewal.

“I had a period of time off work last year due to mental health and wanted to challenge myself to do something, as walking has always helped me,” he explains.

Simon’s journey with the Foundation began around ten years ago when he took part in one of our overnight coastal walks.

“I thoroughly, in a weird way, enjoyed the walk and have volunteered on many of your walking challenges ever since,” he says.

Choosing a marathon distance for each weekly challenge was a deliberate decision.

“It’s a distance most people can relate to – it’s far enough to be a challenge but not too far that it takes a long time to do. Every time, I walk a minimum of a marathon distance; I do not do it over 2 or 3 days.”

A year of planning and perseverance

To fit in 26.2 miles each week, Simon carefully plans his walks around his work schedule.

“Logistically, I try to do them on a Friday as I’m fortunate to finish work at 11:30am. This does not always happen as life and holidays get in the way at times and participating in events for the Foundation.”

Norfolk’s beautiful countryside provides the perfect backdrop.

“Around Norfolk, we’re very fortunate that there are many great walks around. I’ve walked to friends’ homes, who then take me back to my car at work. My default walk is to go from work to home and then back again along Boudicca Way.”

One of Simon’s most heartwarming memories so far came when he combined his passion for walking with his local running club.

“I’m a member of Bungay Black Dog Running Club and one week arranged to walk to Bungay and meet members from the club for the last six miles. I was humbled by how many fellow club members turned up to walk with me.”

The highs, the lows and the lessons

Even for someone as dedicated as Simon, not every week has been easy.

“The toughest walk so far, both emotionally and physically, was the LDWA Flower of Suffolk 100. I managed 79 miles out of the 100 on this occasion nonstop. Bonus was ticking off 3 marathons with 1 walk.”

Despite the challenges, Simon’s spirit remains strong. With nearly 40 marathons already under his belt, he’s now launching his fundraising appeal.

“I wanted people to see I was committed before asking for sponsorship. I don’t have a target in mind, because every penny raised will help The Foundation continue its vital work.”

A journey with purpose

As Simon reflects on what he hopes to gain from this remarkable year-long challenge, his motivation is simple yet powerful:

“Just the satisfaction of completing it and knowing that it’s possible to do challenging events if you try hard enough. Also, that I’ll be helping a fantastic charity and hopefully raising much-needed funds.”

Support Simon’s challenge

Simon’s determination and passion embody the spirit of the Foundation – pushing limits, supporting others, and making a difference.

You can show your support by donating to Simon’s fundraising page here.

Every step he takes brings us closer to change more lives in Norfolk.