Oxford Half Marathon 2026: Running for Thames Valley Air Ambulance
On Sunday 11th October, I joined thousands of runners taking part in the Oxford Half Marathon, tackling 13.1 miles through the streets of Oxford to raise money for Thames Valley Air Ambulance.
I am pleased to say I made it across the finish line and, thanks to the generosity of friends, family and supporters, raised £440 for a charity that means a great deal to me personally.
A Challenging Build-Up to Race Day
My preparation for the half marathon was certainly not ideal!
Having originally hoped to achieve a respectable finishing time, ongoing ankle problems made training difficult, while a bout of Covid shortly before the event disrupted my plans even further.
By race day, I had accepted that simply completing the distance would be an achievement in itself.
Fortunately, the atmosphere in Oxford was fantastic. With thousands of runners taking part and plenty of encouragement from spectators along the route, there was no shortage of motivation.
The final few miles were hard work, but crossing the finish line made it all worthwhile.
Why Thames Valley Air Ambulance?
Thames Valley Air Ambulance provides lifesaving critical care to people facing medical emergencies across Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
My connection to the charity goes back several years, when their team came to the aid of my grandad during a medical emergency.
Having experienced the difference their work can make to families, supporting the organisation is something that holds particular significance for me.
As a charity, Thames Valley Air Ambulance relies on public donations and fundraising to continue providing its vital services across our region.
Taking part in the Oxford Half Marathon was a great opportunity to contribute to that work while challenging myself along the way.
Supporting the Charity Through Healthy Financial Services
As a mortgage broker based in Reading, I have spent much of my career helping people buy homes across Berkshire, Oxfordshire and the surrounding areas.
When I established Healthy Financial Services, I wanted to find a way for the business to give something back to the local community.
That is why I am particularly pleased that Healthy Financial Services is now a corporate partner of Thames Valley Air Ambulance.
Through this partnership, the business donates £50 for every eligible completed purchase mortgage, at no additional cost to clients.
It is a simple way of combining my work helping people achieve their property goals with supporting a charity that provides such an important service to our communities.
Thank You for the Support
A huge thank you to everyone who donated, shared my fundraising page or offered encouragement throughout the build-up to the event.
Completing the Oxford Half Marathon was a fantastic experience, and I am delighted that it also helped raise money for such a worthwhile cause.
Although the race is now behind me, my support for Thames Valley Air Ambulance will continue through Healthy Financial Services.
If you are considering buying a home, or would like to learn more about our charity partnership, including how our mortgage donations work, you can find further information below.
Find out more about our partnership with Thames Valley Air Ambulance
