Impact Marathon - Treasure Every Step
“Runners are positive. We know what it's like to have that voice that says you can't do something. And we know what it's like to silence that voice. Every single runner knows that whether you're at the front or the back or the middle.”
In this episode of the RunAlive Podcast, Ed and Jenny welcome Nick Kershaw, the founder of Impact Marathon, and Bexx Swainson, an accomplished athlete and frequent Impact Marathon participant. Nick shares the inception story of Impact Marathon, highlighting its mission to create running events that serve communities around the world and inspire runners to push beyond their limits. Bexx adds depth to the narrative by recounting her personal experiences in various Impact Marathons, illustrating the transformative power of these events not just for the runners but also for the communities they support.
Impact Marathon’s ethos is to leverage the simple act of running as a formidable force for community development and personal growth. Through stories of marathons in breathtaking locations like Nepal, Guatemala, and Jordan, the episode explores how these events foster deep connections among runners and locals, leading to lasting impact well beyond the race finish line. Whether it’s turning on a tap for the first time in a Nepali village or joining a Women’s Day march in Guatemala, the tales shared in this episode highlight the unique blend of adventure, athleticism, and altruism that defines the Impact Marathon experience.
As Nick delves into the logistical and emotional challenges of organizing these races, and Bexx reflects on the profound personal insights gained from participating, you’ll be inspired by the power of running as a universal language that transcends borders and builds bridges. This episode is not just for runners but for anyone interested in how sports can play a crucial role in driving social change and fostering community spirit across the globe.
Go Do:
What wow moments can you have and share this week? Whether they are small or large ones, take a moment to reflect on what you’ve achieved that perhaps you thought was out of reach.
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Show Notes:
Running with Purpose: The Impact Marathon Journey with Nick Kershaw and Bexx Swainson
Episode Overview:
In this inspirational episode of the RunAlive Podcast, hosts Ed Perry and Jenny Nesbitt engage in a captivating conversation with Nick Kershaw, the founder of Impact Marathon, and Bexx Swainson, an experienced athlete and participant in various Impact Marathons. Together, they explore the genesis of Impact Marathon and its mission to combine the passion for running with meaningful community service and development. Through personal anecdotes and reflective insights, Nick and Bexx share the profound effects these marathons have on both the runners and the communities they touch around the world.
Key Takeaways:
The Birth of Impact Marathon: Nick Kershaw shares the origin story of Impact Marathon, highlighting its goals to create a global community of runners making a tangible impact through their passion for running.
Personal Journeys Transformed: Bexx discusses her journey through multiple Impact Marathons, including the challenges and victories that have shaped her perspective on running, community, and self-discovery.
Community Impact: The episode delves into specific examples of how Impact Marathons have served communities, from providing clean water in Nepal to supporting women's rights in Guatemala.
The Power of Running: Discussions on how running serves as a powerful tool for personal growth, community building, and social change, emphasizing the unique ability of sports to unite people across diverse backgrounds.
Event Challenges and Triumphs: Nick and Bexx touch on the logistical hurdles of organizing these races and the emotional highs that come with overcoming them, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring these events to life.
Featured Quotes:
"It's really hard to define where Nick ends and impact begins...but it's all been about taking people on a really incredible journey." - Nick Kershaw
"Every challenge and every hard point is worth it...the tough times are definitely worth it for the good times." - Bexx Swainson
"Treasure every step...This is the only time when we get to do what we're going to do today." - Nick Kershaw
Resources and Links:
Impact Marathon: Website
Nick Kershaw on Instagram: @NJKershaw
Bexx on Instagram: @RebeccaSwainsonAthlete
Call to Action:
If you're inspired by the idea of running for a cause and making a global impact, consider joining an Impact Marathon. Learn more about upcoming races and how you can be a part of this extraordinary community by visiting the Impact Marathon website. Don't forget to follow our guests on Instagram to keep up with their latest adventures and initiatives.
Thank you for tuning into the RunAlive Podcast. If this episode moved you, please subscribe, share with fellow running enthusiasts, and leave us a review. Stay motivated, keep running, and remember, every step you take can lead to a greater impact.