Chris finished first in his age group (75–79) and received a prize for being the oldest competitor to complete the event (aged 78). The race, held from 5–11 April, marked the 40th anniversary of the Marathon des Sables, with the course extended from 250 km to a demanding 270 km in celebration.
Beyond this extraordinary personal achievement, Chris continues to make a lasting impact through his role as a volunteer mentor. For over a year, he has supported a 14-year-old young carer who looks after his mother, who lives with a rare condition.
Sharing his passion for sport and physical activity, they have taken part in a wide range of activities and experiences that have built confidence, independence and enjoyment in everyday life.
Their time together has included climbing – featuring an award-winning four-day course at White Spider – taking part in parkrun, mountain biking in Richmond Park and completing a BMX course at the Olympic Park in Stratford. They have also enjoyed trips to Thorpe Park for roller coasters, visited Thorpe Lakes for waterskiing lessons and taken part in ten-pin bowling. Pool, snooker and an escape room next on their list!
Alongside this, Chris has supported the young person in developing a gym-based exercise routine and helped him apply for a ZIP card, increasing his independence in using public transport.
The young carer’s mother described their relationship as “absolutely priceless,” adding: “What a gentleman Chris is. He took him to Thorpe Park – he’s wonderful. He has a great understanding of him and keeps him fit. He is much more than a mentor. A would see him every single day if he could.”
Chris has also volunteered as an English language teacher, a swim instructor and a run/bike/triathlon coach for teenage boys and girls at two orphanages in Poland.
Stories like Chris’s show the difference consistent, committed volunteering can make – not only through time given, but through encouragement, shared experience and the confidence it helps build in young people.
Congratulations, Chris, on your incredible achievement – and thank you for the difference you continue to make at KCN.
If you’re interested in making a similar impact to Chris, we would love to hear from you. You can find out more about our volunteering opportunities here.