Raising Money for Charity | The Mission to Run 60 Marathons

Here at Balmer Lawn Hotel, we’re backing the amazing venture of 60-year-old New Forest local, Steve Radjen, as he embarks on an incredible journey to raise money for charity.

Keep reading to discover more about Steve and his goal to raise money for Naomi House & Jacksplace.

Raising Money for Charity | Meet Steve Radjen

Since beginning his running journey in 2004 to improve his physical fitness, Steve has an impressive portfolio of completing runs for charity spanning almost twenty years. 

On his 50th birthday, Steve entered the Marathon des Sables, a gruelling 156 mile exploit across the Sahara, completing one of the stages in 21 hours.

Further to this, Steve has impressed family and friends by running the London Marathon in a weighted backpack, completing an astonishing 21 marathons in 21 days. So far, he’s managed to raise £184,000 for Naomi House & Jacksplace.

To honour his achievements, Steve received a British Empire Medal in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List for 2021.

Raising Money for Charity | Naomi House & Jacksplace

A charity providing respite and palliative care to children and young adults, Naomi House and Jacksplace makes a huge difference to the lives of families dealing with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.

Regarding the challenge and his reasons for raising money for charity, Steve said: “A lot of people have questioned why I’d even attempt to do something so crazy, but this is one of the simplest questions I’ve ever had to answer. I don’t run to add days to my life, I run to make the days of other lives better.

“From the first moment I walked through the doors at Naomi House, I felt the desire to give something back. I’m very fortunate to have two active and healthy daughters, and I felt an immense sense of belonging once I saw the smiling faces, heard the laughter and felt the positive atmosphere that emanated throughout the house.

“Once I walked out of the door, my life changed forever. I didn't know how at the time, but I knew I wanted to play a part in supporting this amazing cause in any way I could. I’m aware of the weight that this brings to my shoulders, but the support I receive from the children, families and staff makes everything worthwhile.”

Raising Money for Charity | The Event

Inspired by Eluid Kipchoge, the Olympic champion, Steve has pledged to run 60 marathons in 60 days to raise money for Naomi House & Jacksplace, an incredible feat set to break the current World Record.

To show our appreciation and support for Steve’s venture, we’ve decided to host a fundraising campaign here at the Balmer Lawn Hotel. We’re looking forward to acknowledging his amazing determination to complete the marathon starting on August 17th.

Raising Money for Charity | Comments From Naomi House & Jacksplace

Paul Morgan, the director of fundraising at Naomi House & Jacksplace, said “Steve epitomises the community-centred nature of the support that has enabled us to grow as a charity. Over the years, Steve has tackled some of the toughest physical endurance challenges that anyone can imagine - and always with the dual aim of raising funds and awareness to support our children.

“He utilised his professional skills to help grow our brand, guiding the charity’s strategy as a trustee and chair of the fundraising and marketing committee. It’s no surprise that over the years, Steve has become our single most successful individual fundraiser.

“Everyone who undertakes some sort of personal challenge to raise money for charity is worthy of respect. When you consider the challenges Steve sets himself, and the sums of money that he manages to raise, it puts him on another level altogether.”

Steve said: “60 in 60 at 60 will definitely be my last challenge. I have promised that to my family. Although my tenure as a trustee will come to an end in October once I’ve served nine years in the position, my support for Naomi House & Jacksplace will continue. It will be in a different way.”

To support Steve’s journey, you can visit his Gofundme page to donate. Alternatively, if you’re interested in attending his celebration with us at the Balmer Lawn Hotel, visit our website for more information.

Why not take a look at our previous blog to discover a selection of our favourite summer drinks for you to make at home?