Tue 13 Aug 2024 • Liza Kershaw
The heartbeat of Impact: stories of connection and unity at Impact Marathon
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Our races are about so much more than just crossing the finish line.
There is a great deal of introspection that the team undertakes in the aftermath of an event. There's the logistical analysis: what we got right, what we need to tweak for the next event. There's the feedback from our charity partners: how did their narrative impact the runners; how can we continue to build their story throughout the year. There is even review of us as a team physically: how much did this event take out of us? Are drained or are we elevated also?
Organising a marathon, half marathon, or 10km is a huge undertaking - doing so in the locations we do is an even greater challenge. However, we are also mixing in an entire week of time with the runners in-country; the local racers, and most importantly, the projects that create the impact we strive to create in the world.
With so many moving parts, it can be hard to truly recognise the elements of an Impact Week that are so special: 35% of Impact Runners book their next race with us within 18 months, it is crazy how close our friendships have become over these years! We have 6 Impact Marathon couples that met on our events...At any race we are no longer welcoming strangers, that's why we never call anyone a 'client'...strangers are just friends waiting to happen anyway.
The testimonials, quotes, messages we receive, and posts on social media tell this story: so here are a few of our favourite from the last year of race events...
Friendships that last a lifetime
"I've done 4 impacts now and loved every single one. The energy of the weeks, the positivity and sense of accomplishment I get post run is second to none. I have met some truly incredible people from all over the globe who remain some of my closest friends. I love it."
For many of our runners, Impact Marathon is where they’ve found lifelong friends. It’s not uncommon to hear stories of runners who came alone, nervous about the challenge ahead, only to leave with a network of friends they now consider family. We see micro-reunions happening across the world and, as team, this truly fills our heart with joy!
Breaking down barriers, one step at a time
"You question your sanity when you hit another area of deep sand, but the challenge and test of your resilience is what you've been craving so you grit teeth and carry on, weirdly knowing you're enjoying it. Would do it again without a second thought."
The beauty of running is that it strips away the layers that often keep us apart. When you’re on the trail, it doesn’t matter where you come from, what language you speak, or what your background is. All that matters is the journey you’re on together. Whether you are racing at the front, enjoying mid-pack camaraderie, or digging deep at the back all runners know the sound of that horrible voice that tells us we should stop, that we can't do it, that we won't make the finish. We all have had to overcome this voice, to silence it, and in that we find the unifying superpower that defies your race time, your finishing place, and your own insecurities.
The heart and soul of Guatemala
"Dave's presence transforms Impact Week from "just an event" into a true community experience."
No discussion of the Guatemala race would be complete without mentioning Dave. For those who have participated, the idea of a Guatemala race without him is, quite frankly, unthinkable. Dave has been to every Guatemala Impact Marathon since the second event, and the fact he wasn't at that very first race irks him greatly. Initially he joined as a runner but after a few too many trips up that volcano decided he would enjoy empowering others to take on the challenge more than racing that tough old race route again...he has become an absolutely integral part of the team.
Dave’s deep love for Guatemala is felt by everyone who meets him, and his organisational skills are second to none. But what truly sets Dave apart is his unwavering care for each and every Impact Runner. He’s the one who makes sure every runner feels supported, encouraged, and valued in the build-up, throughout the entire Impact Week...and he stays your friend long after that finish line has been taken down.
The power of running together
At Impact Marathon, we believe in the power of running to unite people, to break down barriers, and to create lasting connections. Whether it’s the friendships formed, the cultural exchanges shared, or the collective achievement of crossing the finish line, running together is an experience that transcends the physical challenge and touches the heart.
As we look ahead to future races, we carry with us the stories of those who have come before—their connections, their friendships, and the incredible impact they’ve had on one another. And as long as we have people like Dave, with his unwavering passion and care, we know that Impact Marathon will continue to be a beacon of unity, love, and community for all who join.
Our first race of 2025 will be Guatemala Impact Marathon. To join the 7th edition of this remarkable event, and see all our currently open races and challenges - click here.
