Our 'Marathon Man' Prepares for the Chicago Marathon 2023

Hoping to cross that iconic finish line again in Grant Park, tomorrow, our ‘Marathon Man’ Ashraf Wallace and other incredible Penny Appeal challengers take on the Chicago Marathon 2023. This famous course has created four world records and takes elite athletes and new runners alike through some of the world’s most magnificent cities. Runners will receive an abundance of on-the-day support as they pass through 29 neighbourhoods with a whopping 1.7 million spectators. 

After describing last year’s Chicago Marathon as ‘not his best race’, Ash is back to give it another shot this year. Showing unmatched strength and determination, Ash has now touched down in Chicago, after making the 4,000-mile trip to raise vital funds for the recent Morocco and Libya emergencies. 

On 8th September this year, Morocco endured the worst natural disaster to hit the nation in over 100 years. The devastation remains ongoing; at least 3,000 lives have now been claimed as 500,000 people remain displaced due to the calamity. Entire communities are living amongst rubble and dust, praying for mercy. Just days later, two neglected dams burst in the eastern city of Derna, Libya, causing catastrophic flooding, the worst much of the world has ever seen. It is estimated that as many as 20,000 fatalities could result as bodies are still being dragged from the water. Team Orange are raising funds for these life-saving appeals as the month of September saw these two nations devastated through no fault of their own. 

Having recently poured his marathon fundraising efforts into emergency response appeals like the Pakistan Floods and the Turkey / Syria earthquake, Ash’s commitment to helping those in need around the world is truly inspiring. His amazing work was recognised in May this year, where Ash won the first ever Judges Award at the Bradford Sports Awards for his unwavering dedication and achievements this year. Ash ran 7 marathons in 8 months, meaning he has now completed 5 out of the big 6 world major marathons! He is looking forward to ticking number 6 off his bucket list in Bostan next year. Go Ash! 

We’re super excited to see updates from all the marathon action this weekend, so be sure to join us in wishing Ash and the other #TeamOrange runners the best of luck for tomorrow’s big race!