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Runner Dons Cricket Gear for Marathon in Wife's Memory
24 Apr
Summary
- Man runs London Marathon in cricket attire to honor late wife.
- He raises funds for a foundation supporting families facing parental death.
- His wife Erika died in July 2022 from stage-four bowel cancer.
Richard Williman will participate in the London Marathon, uniquely attired in cricket gear and carrying a bat, as a tribute to his wife, Erika. She passed away in July 2022 after a battle with stage-four bowel cancer.
Williman, also known as the Running Cricketer, is running to raise money for the Ruth Strauss Foundation. This charity provides crucial emotional support for families facing the terminal illness of a parent. The foundation was established by former England cricket captain Sir Andrew Strauss in memory of his wife.
This marks Williman's third year of running challenges in cricket attire. He emphasizes the foundation's vital work in supporting children and families navigating the loss of a parent due to cancer or other terminal illnesses. Erika's bravery following her diagnosis was paramount, especially in her wish to be open with their two children about her condition.
Williman plans further half-marathons in Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham, and Leeds this year. He will also run the Sydney Marathon in Australia. He notes the challenge of running in cricket gear, particularly raising the bat to acknowledge supporters.
Other runners also shared their motivations. Jess Corps, an RAF medic, runs for the Teenage Cancer Trust after her own leukaemia diagnosis. Rob Belt, a primary school teacher, runs for Headway, supporting brain injury association, following his own stroke at age 24.
