08/06/2026
π MONDAY MOTIVATION β SAM HOLLAND'S INCREDIBLE 12 MARATHONS IN 12 MONTHS CHALLENGE π
This week's Monday Motivation belongs to one truly inspirational member of our Kippax Bootcamp family, Sam Holland. π
While most people would consider completing one marathon a huge achievement, Sam set herself an extraordinary challenge β 12 marathons in 12 months, running one marathon every single month.
Her journey began in spectacular fashion at the Dublin Marathon, where she not only completed Marathon Number 1 but also achieved an incredible personal best of 4 hours, 5 minutes and 29 seconds. π
Marathon Number 2 took her to Kirkstall Abbey before the challenge really began to take its toll during Marathon Number 3 at the Sale Big Xmas Trail, where the physical demands of running month after month started to kick in.
Not one to be deterred, Sam mentally regrouped and tackled Marathon Number 4 along the Shipley Canal, enjoying the flatter course and a welcome change of scenery.
Marathon Number 5 brought a real treat as she took on the stunning Northumberland Coast Marathon, soaking up some of the most beautiful views the country has to offer.
Then came the halfway milestone β Marathon Number 6 in Cambridge. This one was particularly special for Sam, as it was the city where she became engaged to her husband Alex 16 years ago. Returning brought back so many memories and emotions, but as always, she dug deep and smashed through the halfway point of her challenge. β€οΈ
Marathon Number 7 saw Sam head to Rodley in April, and the rabbit fancy dress outfit has to be one of the cutest sights we've seen on marathon day! π°
For Marathon Number 8, there could hardly have been a more fitting venue than her hometown of Leeds, surrounded by family, friends and supporters cheering her every step of the way.
Every mile Sam runs has a purpose. Alongside completing 12 marathons in 12 months, she is raising money for Juvenile Arthritis Research, a cause that became deeply personal when her daughter was diagnosed with Juvenile Childhood Arthritis four years ago. Sam hopes her challenge will not only raise vital funds but also increase awareness so that other families recognise the signs early and get the support they need.
Now, with Marathon Number 9 fast approaching this Sunday at the beautiful Lake Windermere Marathon, Sam continues to show incredible determination, resilience and courage. Every mile, every training session and every finish line has required immense physical and mental strength, yet she continues to push forward with unwavering focus. We know the entire UK Outdoor Fitness family will be right behind her as she takes on another 26.2 miles this weekend. πββοΈπͺ
Behind every achievement is an incredible support network. Husband Alex and their three children have been by her side throughout the training, preparation and achievements, helping her stay focused on her goal when the challenge has become tough. π
Everyone at UK Outdoor Fitness Kippax Bootcamp is immensely proud of what you have achieved so far, Sam. You are an inspiration to us all and a reminder that with purpose, determination and heart, extraordinary things are possible.
With four marathons remaining after Sunday's challenge, the finish line is getting closer, and we have absolutely no doubt that you'll smash every one of them.
π Please join us in wishing Sam the very best of luck for Marathon Number 9 this Sunday and congratulating her on everything she has achieved so far.
Keep going, Sam. You've already inspired more people than you'll ever know. πͺπββοΈβ€οΈ
