In summary, the Abbott World Marathon Majors is a prestigious medal that can be earned by running and completing the six major marathons held around the world: London, Tokyo, Boston, Berlin, Chicago, and New York. Only 8,067 people have achieved this feat to date. The article highlights the accomplishment of two dedicated runners, Keith Blake and Angela Bell. Angela is only one major marathon away from earning the coveted medal, having already participated in five of the races. She first took up running in 2012, quickly catching the running bug during morning runs through the countryside. She completed her first marathon in 2015 and was inspired to pursue the Six Star Medal after running the New York City Marathon in 2016.
Angela became more determined to achieve this goal after running the Berlin Marathon in 2017 and was supported by her husband, Ian, who also took up running. The couple have since completed several marathons together, with Angela running 18 marathons and Ian running 12. They are now just one marathon away from earning their prized Abbotts World Major Marathon Medals. Angela expresses her gratitude to those who have supported her on this journey and reflects on the significance of achieving this feat with a bit of focus, determination, and effort.
The article also pays homage to the author’s uncle, John Robert Bell, who recently passed away at the age of 90. He was a former Guardsman and lecturer, as well as a huge influence on the author’s running journey. John was instrumental in convincing the author to take up running and played a significant role in inspiring the author to win his first half marathon in 1986. John continued running until his 80s, raising money for charitable causes through his running. The author fondly remembers his uncle’s impact on his life and expresses his intention to “keep on running” in his honor.
Overall, the article celebrates the dedication and achievements of passionate runners and pays tribute to the impact of mentors and loved ones who have supported them along the way. It is a reflection on the transformative power of running and the profound connections it fosters within individuals and their communities.
