Wheelchair racer doing own London Marathon 200 miles away in Hull

A man will be competing in his own London Marathon – 200 miles from the capital.

Wheelchair-user Kalem Bennett, from Hull, was initially accepted for the event, but had to withdraw after organisers said he had not reached the times required for the racing wheelchair competitors.

He will now take part in his own “Hullathon” on Sunday by taking to the roads from his home in Sproatley, East Yorkshire, before completing the 26 miles around East Park in the city.

The 20-year-old said missing out on racing in London was “a bit annoying” because he had spent months in training.

“It’s not just an event where you can train for two weeks and then you’re prepared,” he said.

“My training has been tough and takes a lot of dedication, but I’m feeling ready for it now.”

Family and supporters will accompany him as he makes his way to East Park on Sunday morning.

Mr Bennett is raising money for the Tigers Trust, a charity linked to Hull City, where he studying on a football community coaching course.

So far he has raised thousands of pounds for the trust, which he said “means a lot” to him.

“It helps young adults and children and also helps all to feel included in sport and the community,” he added.

He has been training for the past three months using the trust’s facilities, including a treadmill.

Despite missing out on this year’s race he hopes to compete in the London Marathon in 2026.

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