Tinathon returns to honour memory of marathon runner

The Tinathon challenge started in 2019 in honour of marathon runner Tina Jury, who lost her life to cancer.

Tina continued to run and train even during her chemotherapy treatment and inspired others to do the same.

The annual challenge sees people commit to 30 minutes of exercise every day in December, including Christmas Day.

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The Tinathon committee includes Christine Donald, Heather Terry, Anna Jury and Elspeth Howie (Image: Sam Gavins Photography) This challenge can be fulfilled in any form, whether it's a home workout, a brisk walk, a gym session, or even running alongside Santa's sleigh.

The organising committee for this year includes Tina's daughter Anna.

She is encouraging everyone to participate and exercise at their own level.

Anna said: "My mum always wanted to have fun whilst doing sport and would encourage others to do the same.

"When she was really ill and found just climbing the stairs difficult, it made me realise what a privilege being able to move and exercise is.

"My mum would love the Tinathon community and all the funny, active, inclusive things that happen."

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Tinathon has raised more than £50,000 since 2019 (Image: Sam Gavins Photography) Since its inception, Tinathon has raised more than £50,000 for charities Wessex Cancer Support and Winchester Hospice, whilst fostering a supportive community both online and face-to-face.

Rachel Billsberry Grass, chief executive of Wessex Cancer Support, said: "Tinathon is a brilliant event to raise money while honouring Tina’s memory and we are absolutely delighted that Wessex Cancer Support will once again benefit from the money raised.

"It means a great deal to know there are supporters taking up the Tinathon challenge who support us year after year. Everyone at Wessex Cancer Support wishes them the best of luck for this year’s event."

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To join the challenge, a donation of £31 is required, or £15.50 for under 16s.

Links to the JustGiving pages, and more information, can be found on the Tinathon Facebook and Instagram pages, or on its website tinathon.co.uk.

If participants miss a day, a £5 'fine' can be paid.

Tinathon is supported by local clubs, gyms and personal trainers who are providing free classes and online workouts for participants.

Run Walk Sport in Oliver's Battery is supplying lilac buffs for all participants so they are easy to spot while they train.