Looking ahead through 2026, we have some amazing runners taking part in a range of races to fundraise for us. Each of them is taking on a huge personal challenge, committing months of training and determination to turn a love of running into positive action for wildlife. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has chosen to support us in this way. Below, you can read their stories and find out what inspired them to race for wildlife.

“As someone who has spent most of my life around Bristol and loves nature more than anything, I want to give back to it as much as I can.

"The work this charity is doing to protect our local ecosystems and habitats, as well as help people connect with nature, is crucial, especially considering climate change, pollution, our ongoing exploitation of nature.... Like many, I have loved exploring the variety of nature that Bristol has to offer, and this charity ensures that future generations can experience this too.

"Last February, I had major surgery, removing over 4 inches of my bowel tissue. During recovery (and an ongoing battle with my health), the one thing that I desired to do more than anything was run. I am deeply thankful for my body, and running 45 miles will be an enormous feat that I am excited to challenge myself with."

Support Anna

"I wanted a challenge bigger than the usual half marathon. Having never run more than 13 miles before, I decided the sensible next step was 45 miles (72km). If I’m suffering, at least it’s for a good cause."

Support Alfie

"I am running the Green Man Ultra, a 45 mile Ultra-Marathon, to raise money for the Avon Wildlife Trust. This will allow them to continue protecting and managing the wildlife local to the Avon area. Whilst studying at the University of Bristol and being lucky enough to experience the local wildlife, the importance of protecting and conserving these community spaces has never been more obvious."

Support Harry

"Green Man Ultra, a 45-ish mile race around the community forest trail that loops around Bristol, was one of the first ultramarathons I attempted. It didn't go well... Undeterred, I returned to attempt the Winter version of the event and managed to drag myself around, more by luck than judgement.

"Buoyed by confidence, I entered the next Summer edition of the event, motivated by the thought of a special buckle you get for doing both. Three quarters of the way round I stopped to help a runner who had not taken any electrolytes on one of the hottest days of the year and was close to collapsing with heat exhaustion... It was the least I could do but caused me to miss the cutoff for the precious buckle I wanted.

"I thought I would have another bash at the Winter version, but overtraining gifted me a stress fracture to my foot and I was destined to limp the route (though to be fair, my running pace isn't much faster!)

"This chequered, love-hate relationship with Green Man Ultra led me to swear never to set foot on the trail again... Until I saw the opportunity to lay the demons to rest and raise some funds for Avon Wildlife Trust.”

Support Chris

"I’m running the Tromsø Midnight Sun Marathon to raise money for the Avon Wildlife Trust. I’m passionate about all things nature and wildlife and although I'm running abroad I want to raise money for my local wildlife trust. 

"I hope to raise awareness of the charity, in hope that others connect with nature further so more people are willing to help protect our local species and environments. 

"Through this run, I hope to raise money for the Trust so they can continue to protect wildlife and educate others on the incredible benefits wildlife brings to our lives."

Support Victoria

Feeling inspired?

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If you have any questions, or would like some support setting up a fundraiser, please contact the team at fundraising@avonwildlifetrust.org.uk