Team GB athlete inspires more schools to take part in the 2022 TCS Mini London Marathon in schools
British middle-distance runner Jake Wightman is encouraging more schools to register for this year’s TCS Mini London Marathon in schools and help create a happy, healthier future generation.
Wightman, who ran the Mini London Marathon in both 2008 and 2009, took time out from his preparations for next week’s World Athletics Championships to visit Heathmere Primary School in south west London. Heathmere is just one of the schools already signed up for this year’s TCS Mini London Marathon in schools, which will take place between Monday 26 September and Friday 21 October.
Pupils at Heathmere were treated to a talk from Wightman – the third-fastest British man in history over 1500m – before going on a jog with him around their school playground.
Wightman said: “The TCS Mini London Marathon in schools is so important to help keep kids active, just to get a healthy mind and healthy body. Hopefully we can end up producing another generation of athletes who can go on to achieve on the world stage. And, if not, we get a generation of very happy and healthy kids.”
Heathmere was one of hundreds of schools to take part in last year’s Mini London Marathon in schools, which saw an incredible 500,000 children registered to take part.
The TCS Mini London Marathon in schools is a challenge where pupils can run, jog, walk or wheel 2.6 miles in their schools. They can complete the distance in one go or break it up into smaller chunks.
Heathmere headteacher Emma Lewis said: “We want children in the future to be active, fit and healthy, and the TCS Mini London Marathon in schools is an excellent way to do this. It’s great that all children can take part, no matter what their ability or fitness levels – it’s a properly inclusive event that everyone can do.
“At Heathmere, we’ll be taking part because we know that good physical health helps support good mental health. And these combined mean that the children are more likely to achieve well academically.”
To register your school in the 2022 TCS Mini London Marathon in schools, click here.