Two long-serving Oxford Bus Company bus drivers are swapping their driving gloves for running trainers to complete gruelling challenges for charity.
Arif Khan is running his second London Marathon this month, and his colleague Mark Temple is embarking on a half-iron-man contest in Somerset in July.
The pair have been upping their training regime alongside their bus and coach driving shifts. The London Marathon is 26.2 miles, and a half-iron-man consists of a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride and a half marathon.
Oxford Bus Company has backed the duo with sponsorship to help fund vital equipment, including running watches, heart rate strap monitors and running trainers. Arif is running in support of Cancer Research UK and Mark for Sobell House.
Arif, who is looking forward to running his second London Marathon in a row, said: “It’s a wonderful charity that helps makes make a difference and I’m happy to help again. Training is going well and I’m focused on beating my time from last year. I’m so grateful to Oxford Bus Company for supporting me and Cancer Research UK.”
Long-term runner Mark is fundraising for Sobell House, which cared for his dad and his wife’s grandmother before they sadly passed away.
Mark said: “Sobell House showed so much compassion and respect and so I always run in support of the hospice. I’m looking forward to the day and running for such a good cause. I’m hoping to complete the challenge inside six hours, I’m upping my training in preparation. Oxford Bus Company has been brilliant in supporting me and Sobell House.”
Luke Marion, Oxford Bus Company Managing Director, said: “We’re so proud of Arif and Mark and the way their colleagues are supporting them both. Their determination is inspiring and so we’re delighted to help them both with kit for their big days. They’re running for two excellent charities and we wish them all the best.”
Visit Arif’s GoFundMe page and Mark’s JustGiving page to learn more about the fundraising efforts and donate.
