Two firefighters tackled the London Marathon to help raise vital funds for charities that support people with disabilities and vulnerable children.
Hassan Abrar and Ant Devine took part in the event which saw an estimated 42,000 people tackle the 26.2-mile (42km) course.
Supporting charity
While Ant Devine is raising money for the NSPCC, Hassan Abrar is supporting Henshaws, which is a northern charity supporting people living with sight loss and a range of other disabilities. He chose to support Henshaws because the charity has helped members of his family who suffer from sight loss.
“The atmosphere on Sunday was amazing - I have never experienced anything like it,” said Hassan Abrar.
Marathon
Hassan completed the marathon in three hours, 59 minutes, and nine seconds
Hassan Abrar adds, “Hundreds of thousands of people line the streets to support you, and this was definitely what got me through.”
Hassan completed the marathon in three hours, 59 minutes, and nine seconds and said he was thrilled to be under his four-hour target.
advice, and donations
"Everyone was supportive,” said Hassan Abrar, adding “From people shouting my name and encouraging me, to handing out chocolate and sweets, it all helped me beat my four-hour target."
He continues, "As always, the members on my watch supported my efforts by joining me on training runs. Also, a big thank you to the WYFRS athletics group for their support, advice, and donations which motivated me.”
training
Ant Devine has spent the last 20 weeks training for the marathon and completed it in 4 hours 40 minutes and 15 seconds. “Thanks to everyone who has supported me – the donations from colleagues at WYFRS have pushed me on with my training,” he said.
Ant Devine continues, “It was amazing to take part in the marathon and I’m thrilled to be over halfway towards my target of raising £2,200. I chose the NSPCC because in 2020 I adopted my three-year-old son with my husband Dean. He had a good start, because he was fostered from birth, but not every child is given that chance.”
