"Marcus Rashford is massively inspiring."

At just 20, Villiers Park alumni Kyle Landells is half the age of the average marathon runner, according to the Livestrong website. On October 3 he'll lace up his trainers and set out to conquer the iconic London Marathon course - all 26.2 miles of it - raising as much money as he can for us in the process. Find out why he's running for Villiers Park and sponsor him.

Thankfully, Kyle's no stranger to the exertions of club-level sport: formerly a goalie for the Swindon Wildcats ice hockey team, he's now turned his attention to (slightly) warmer water as a member of Swansea University Rowing Club. And, according to his Strava, he's putting in the training miles which will ensure he's match-fit on the day.

Kyle's sporting hero

Kyle is obviously our sporting hero, but who's his? We asked him to tell us about someone who motivates and inspires him. Here's what he said:

As someone who follows a number of different sports, it wasn’t easy picking just one athlete that inspires me. Someone who jumps to mind, however - especially in recent times - is Marcus Rashford MBE.

I’m sure you will have heard of him, but just in case you haven’t, Marcus Rashford is an English football player that plays up front for Manchester United. At the age of just 23, he has solidified a position in one of the biggest football clubs in the world, which in itself is a huge achievement. A lot of players in that position, and in fact professional athletes in general, would be happy enough with that and not worry about any wider issues that likely wouldn’t affect them.

Last year when we went into national lockdown, Marcus started a petition, as well as wrote an open letter to MPs, in order to keep free school meals being provided throughout the summer. In doing so, he helped feed over 1.3 million children. I found this act to be massively inspiring, as he chose to use his influence and position to do something good - something that I’d urge everyone to do! I also feel there is a similarity between the goal Marcus is working towards and that which Villiers Park is. Both aim to provide young people with equal opportunities, regardless of their background.

Thanks for taking the time to read this. Although I’m no professional footballer, I’m  trying to do my bit this October! Please check out my story and donate if you can!

Kyle x