Pushing Limits for a Cause: Karl Hayward Takes on His First Marathon in Memory of Colleagues Lost to MND
On Sunday 19 April, Karl Hayward, one of our Norfolk‑based Account Executives, took on the biggest physical challenge of his life — running his first ever marathon in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA).
Alongside his best friend Darren Carter of Morgan Sindall, Karl completed the demanding 42.71km course, not just as a personal milestone, but as a heartfelt tribute to Tim Angell of Larking Gowen and Wes Barton of Aviva. Both men had tragically lost their battles with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), a devastating condition that profoundly affects individuals and families alike.
An endurance test in every sense
This was no ordinary marathon. The course tested both physical strength and mental resilience, featuring an exhausting 1,296 metres of elevation gain. For first‑time marathon runners, the challenge was formidable — and yet Karl and Darren pushed through every kilometre.
After months of preparation, early‑morning training runs, and countless miles logged in all weather conditions, they crossed the finish line in an impressive 4 hours, 16 minutes and 58 seconds.
For Karl, the achievement was about far more than the finish time.
“Running the marathon was incredibly tough, but remembering why we were doing it kept us going when things got difficult,” he said. “Tim and Wes meant a great deal to a lot of people, and it felt right to honour their memory in this way.”
Running to raise awareness and funds
Motor Neurone Disease is a life‑limiting condition with no cure, and fundraising plays a crucial role in supporting research, care, and vital services for those affected. Through the generosity of colleagues, friends, family, and the wider community, Karl and Darren have raised over £3,000 for the MND Association.
Each donation represents not only financial support, but awareness, compassion, and solidarity with those living with MND.
Despite already surpassing their fundraising target, support is still welcome. Anyone wishing to contribute can do so via the JustGiving page below:
👉 https://www.justgiving.com/page/rememberingtim
Every contribution helps the MND Association continue its essential work supporting people with MND and funding research into future treatments.
A truly inspiring effort
Completing a first marathon is a life‑changing experience. Doing so in memory of lost friends, while raising thousands of pounds for charity, makes Karl’s achievement even more remarkable.
We’re incredibly proud of Karl for embodying determination, compassion, and resilience — both in his professional role and beyond — and for honouring Tim and Wes in such a powerful and meaningful way.
Congratulations to Karl and Darren on an outstanding achievement.