Shawn Overall has been training on a treadmill in the middle of the North Sea as he prepares to run the iconic London Marathon which takes place this Sunday, 21 April. His job as an Electronic Technician on an oil rig has meant the 35-year-old from Thorpe End has had to do most of his training whilst working offshore.
Hailing from a horse-loving family, Shawn was inspired to run the 26.2 mile route for us after seeing firsthand the important work we do in rescuing and rehoming horses that have been abandoned, neglected or mistreated.
“The work of World Horse Welfare is invaluable, uniting caring people with ponies and horses that deserve a second chance at life.
“My sister-in-law adopted Sinbad from World Horse Welfare eighteen years ago. My children love riding him but more than that they love caring for him and learning about looking after him, instilling and teaching them important values like respect, patience, kindness and love.
“Sinbad is a much-loved member of the family. I know the crucial work that World Horse Welfare does, in this country and abroad, so I wanted to support their incredible work, allowing horses like Sinbad to have a second chance!”
Shawn Overall
Shawn has always enjoyed sport, competing at National Level in Boxing until the age of 18, but this will be his first marathon.
“I’ve always loved running and it’s always been an integral part of my training for sports, but I have never challenged myself to complete a marathon until now! I am really looking forward to the challenge and pushing myself to my limit!”
Shawn is one of six runners representing our charity at this year’s TCS London Marathon.
“All of our wonderful fundraisers ensure we can continue to work across the full spectrum of the horse world in the UK and around the world to improve welfare and the horse-human relationship.
“We’d like to say a huge thank you to Shawn and to our other runners, Val, David, Lauren, Nick and Simon for tackling this epic event and wish them the very best of luck.”
Frances Plume, Senior Relationship Officer at World Horse Welfare
To donate to Shawn’s run please visit his fundraising page HERE
