A pair of West Ham United footballers took part in a running event to encourage pupils who collectively covered 26.2 miles, just as club staff prepare for this weekend’s London Marathon on April 26.
Tomas Soucek and Ollie Scarles visited the London Marathon Community Track in the capital’s east end to show support for pupils from Bobby Moore Primary School, as part of the West Ham United Foundation’s Premier League Primary Stars programme.
Each child completed two circuits of the 400-metre track, with their combined efforts equating to marathon distance.
The occasion served as warm-up for the TCS London Marathon, where West Ham United first-team personnel—including performance analysis chief Charlie Radmore, player care manager George Stannard, and goalkeeper analyst Joe Evans—will attempt the 26.2-mile course for the West Ham United Foundation.
The charity prioritises wellbeing, learning, and generating opportunities.
Mr Soucek said he remembered racing for his school alongside pals and having a good time. He mentioned the youngsters seemed delighted throughout the day, which he felt was the most important aspect. He described the visit as genuinely meaningful.
He pointed out that whether someone covers 200 metres or a complete marathon, running offers considerable advantages. Providing children with such an opportunity felt particularly significant to him.
Mr Soucek also highlighted his colleagues who are taking part in the marathon. He observed that these individuals support the players consistently on the pitch, so now the players were returning the favour. He considered it admirable that they were raising funds for West Ham United and the Foundation.
Tomáš Souček spent time urging the pupils on, completing autograph signings and photographs. He stated he could recall competing for his school and having fun with his companions. The children appeared so content during the session, and that represented what mattered most. He found the experience truly special.
The afternoon combined sports with education, overseen by West Ham United Foundation learning ambassador Bobby Seagull, who instructed pupils on marathon distance by translating it into track circuits, alongside a warm-up led by club mascot Hammerhead.
Mr Seagull commented that observing the children’s excitement and their integration of mathematics with athletics had been wonderful.
Such experiences enabled youngsters to envision accomplishing something like a marathon in future. Interaction with Premier League stars produced unforgettable moments and hopefully motivated them to maintain an active lifestyle.
Pupils shared their positive views about the occasion, with one noting that running alongside friends while meeting the players had been really enjoyable. The student added they had not realised a marathon consisted of 26.2 miles.
Other pupils discussed acquiring lessons about determination and regulating their speed. For performance analysis chief Mr Radmore, the marathon symbolised both an individual test and a fundraising opportunity.
He explained that preparation had been taxing, involving pre-dawn sessions and considerable commitment, yet he felt genuinely enthusiastic about the event. Running for the Foundation provided additional resonance.
Funds gathered by Team West Ham United Foundation will finance initiatives helping young people, families, and vulnerable communities across east London.
The school gathering encouraged children to keep moving and dream big while establishing the mood for the London Marathon, where club employees will undertake the challenge to benefit the community.