We asked Lucy to share her experience running the 2026 Cambridge Half Marathon for the Trust:
“I decided to run the Cambridge Half Marathon because I wanted to complete another half marathon before I turn 60. It had been nearly 10 years since I last ran this distance when I was living in Japan, and the idea had been quietly sitting in the background for a while.
Everything came together at a networking event in November 2025, when I met Amy from the Papworth Trust. She mentioned they had charity places available, and something in me just said yes. By the end of the event, I had asked for one of those places.. Training through the winter had its moments. There were cold, wet and even snowy runs, and I had to pause for a couple of weeks when I wasn’t well. But I kept going and even found myself running while on holiday. By race day I had completed the full distance twice in training, so I felt ready.
"It felt good to connect a personal challenge with something that makes a difference." she said.The day itself was such a special experience. The atmosphere in Cambridge was incredible, with supporters lining the route through a city I’ve called home for the past 10 years. Seeing the Papworth Trust team on the route gave me a real lift. I ran past them twice and they were full of encouragement and enthusiasm, which made such a difference.
Supporting Papworth Trust was a privilege. Their work helping disabled people live with independence, purpose and opportunity really resonated.I completed the 21 kilometres in 2 hours, 5 minutes and 45 seconds, which was half an hour quicker than when I last ran this distance.
Thanks to the generosity of friends, family and people I met along the way, I raised £1,301 for Papworth Trust. It was a hugely rewarding experience and a real privilege to support such a meaningful cause.”
A massive thank you to Lucy for taking part in our run. We’re so proud to be able to share her story and those like hers. It makes all the difference, and we couldn’t be more grateful.