Turriff runner crosses the finish line at the Virgin Money London Marathon in aid of the British Heart Foundation
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Local resident, Ruth Pirie, was one of 350 British Heart Foundation (BHF) Champions who took to the streets of London on Sunday to conquer the Virgin Money London Marathon and raise funds for the charity’s life saving research.
This is the first time since April 2019 that the iconic event has taken place due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and over 100 BHF Champions took part in the race virtually alongside the BHF runners who pounded 26.2 miles of the Capital’s streets.
The event comes as the BHF seeks to recover its income in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Last year the charity saw its income cut in half, after nearly all its fundraising events were cancelled and its shops were forced to close for months on end. So far, BHF London Marathon runners have raised over £911,000 which will go towards improving the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart and circulatory diseases, which currently affect more than 7.6 million people in the UK.
Amongst those running was Ruth Pirie (37) from Turriff, who raised an incredible £2500.
No stranger to the 26.2 mile distance, this was Ruth’s 11th marathon overall and third time running the famed London course.
She took on the iconic challenge for the BHF this year for her family and friends who have been affected by heart and circulatory conditions.
After crossing the finish line, Ruth, who completed the course in 3 hours and 25 minutes, said: “Taking part in the London Marathon was an incredible experience.
"Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s been a long wait to get to the start line and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved and the money I’ve raised for the British Heart Foundation.
“The atmosphere on the day was electric and I want to say thank you to all the amazing people on the side lines cheering me on, they really inspire you to keep going and put a smile on your face.
"Knowing that the money I have raised will help the British Heart Foundation raise vital funds for life saving research for people in the UK living with heart and circulatory diseases was also a huge motivator.”
Lizzie Moscardini, Events Manager at the BHF, added: “It’s fantastic to see Ruth’s determination and courage in helping the British Heart Foundation raise life saving funds for people living with heart and circulatory diseases.
“The stories of why our amazing supporters take part never fails to amaze me and it was incredible to be back at this legendary event, cheering Ruth and our other BHF runners on.
“It’s thanks to the commitment of people like Ruth that the BHF has been able to continue to fund ground breaking discoveries including pacemakers and genetic testing for inherited heart conditions that help transform lives.”
To sign up to run for the BHF in next year’s London Marathon, visit www.bhf.org.uk/londonmarathon2022
