Wendy Bainbridge with her medal © Ruth Mills
A committed and determined Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) member has completed the challenge of a lifetime in the gruelling Islandbank Reykjavik Marathon, and has donated over £300 for wildlife in Dorset.
In August, Wendy Bainbridge went all the way and ran 26 miles in harsh Icelandic conditions. Wendy has run 16 marathons, and before hanging up her running shoes to run half marathons, she wanted to do something in memory of her friend who passed away recently. Raising money for DWT seemed appropriate, as she and her dear friend are avid supporters of DWT’s important conservation work in Dorset.
The race took place along the exposed coastline of Reykjavik, giving runners a spectacular view of the Icelandic coastal wildlife, including puffins and ravens.
Despite an injury that forced Wendy to take five weeks off training, she completed the marathon in 5 hours 50 minutes.
Wendy said, “Even though it was cold and exposed, there was a certain beauty in the rawness of the coastline, and the wildlife was quite stunning.
As I ran I thought about the Trust and my friend. It felt very appropriate.”
Alastair Cook, Director of Fundraising and Marketing for DWT, said: “We consider it an honour that Wendy chose to raise money for Dorset Wildlife Trust, whilst completing this difficult challenge. It is so inspiring to see members and supporters completing these challenges, and we hope that Wendy’s story will inspire more people to follow in her footsteps.”
Wendy has raised £300 for DWT so far, but if you want to support her, there is still time to donate online. Please visit her fundraising page for more information: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/wendy-bainbridge-runs-iceland
If Wendy’s story inspires you, find out how you can challenge yourself and help DWT by visiting www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/howyoucanhelp
