Fund team member takes on Great North Run fundraising challenge

The RAF Benevolent Fund’s very own member of staff took on the world’s biggest half marathon, the Great North Run which took place on 10 September 2023.

Katy Albone, 25, from Newcastle, took part in the annual challenge amongst 60,000 runners, to run the route from Newcastle to South Shields. 

The Great North Run is infamous for its inclusive atmosphere, unbeatable on-route entertainment, and warm Geordie welcome - and this year was no different. With an unpredictably warm northern day to contend with, runners were handed ice lollies and sprayed down with hoses whilst following the route.

The Red Arrows flew over the Tyne Bridge to wish them well too. This year marked the last time Mo Farah will take part in the half marathon.

Katy joined the Fund in December 2022, working as a Community Fundraising Assistant; Katy has witnessed firsthand the various fundraisers completed for the charity. She said: “I’ve been lucky enough to see the work that we do and the impact it has on people, and I wanted to do something myself to raise money. It felt fitting to pick an event so close to home.”

Katy said of her experience: “I completed the race yesterday in 2 hours 52 minutes, with no walking, even after a fall! It was tough in the heat, but the atmosphere was amazing and the kindness of the Geordie’s shone through, with people handing out ice lollies all the way along, as well as standing in their gardens spraying us all down with hoses! Thank you to everyone who wished me luck too!”

To prepare herself Katy said her partner, who is in the Army, kept her at a steady pace. Katy said: “I tried to push myself as far as possible. This was my first-time taking part in a run like this so wanted to set myself a challenge – although, I did take part in the race when I was younger. 12 times!”

Katy started the race alongside Fund volunteers, including Julie Corbett who is well-known for her fundraising support in Northern Ireland.

Katy beat her target of £250 and has now raised over £700 for the Fund. 

You can donate to Katy’s fundraiser here.