Run a Marathon

Running a marathon is one of the most iconic ways to raise money for a cause. Whether it's London, Manchester, or a local event, crossing that finish line is a moment you and your supporters will never forget.

The key to a successful marathon fundraiser is combining genuine personal commitment with a compelling story. People donate because they believe in you — share your training journey, post regular updates, and make it personal.

• A place in a marathon event (ballot, charity place, or open entry)
• A free Kayana Aid fundraising page
• A running training plan — at least 16 weeks for first-timers
• Suitable running kit and shoes fitted at a specialist shop
• A personal story explaining why you're running
• A fundraising target and an outreach plan

1. 01

   Secure your marathon place

   Enter a ballot, buy an open entry, or apply for a charity place. Charity places typically come with a minimum fundraising commitment — check this before accepting.

2. 02

   Set up your Kayana Aid page

   Create your fundraising page with a photo, personal story, and target. Share it the same day you confirm your place — early donors create momentum.

3. 03

   Train and document your journey

   Post regular updates on your Kayana Aid page and social media throughout training. Photos of long runs, milestone distances, and hard days humanise your challenge and keep donors engaged.

4. 04

   Run race-week communications

   In the week before the race, send an update to all your donors with your race number, start time, and a heartfelt thank-you. This often triggers last-minute donations.

5. 05

   Share your finish and say thank you

   Post your finish time and a photo immediately after crossing the line. Send a personalised thank-you to every donor — people remember fundraisers who acknowledge their support.

• Set your fundraising target at around 80% of your stretch goal — hitting it early drives additional donations.
• Enable Gift Aid on your page — it adds 25% to every eligible UK donation at no extra cost to donors.
• Post a training update at least fortnightly — pages with regular updates raise significantly more on average.
• Ask your employer about matched giving — many companies will match employee fundraising.
• Use your Kayana Aid QR code on your running vest and printed materials for easy mobile donations on race day.