Charity
Seven Half Marathons in Seven Days: Tom’s Huge Charity Challenge
A Manx runner has begun a gruelling week-long challenge that will see him complete seven half marathons in seven days to raise money for four local charities.
Tom Quirk, who works at Baker Tilly Isle of Man, started the ambitious fundraiser today (Monday, March 16) and will run more than 90 miles by the time he finishes later this week.
Tom began running in 2020 and has since taken part in races across Europe, including half marathons in Copenhagen, Prague, Cardiff, Valencia, Lisbon and Split, as well as the Manchester Marathon.
Over the years he has raised around £11,000 for charities including Isle Listen, Forget Me Not (Isle of Man charity) and Hospice Isle of Man.
Last year he took on one of his toughest challenges yet, running 39 miles of the TT course for Isle Listen and raising £1,700.
Now he is pushing himself even further.
The challenge gets underway from the Baker Tilly offices on Lord Street in Douglas, with weekday runs taking place after work.
Saturday will see him tackle a different route before finishing the challenge at the Flutter Hospice Half Marathon on Sunday, March 22.
The fundraiser will support four island charities: Isle Listen, Forget Me Not, Hospice Isle of Man and Rebecca House Children’s Hospice.
Tom said the causes are particularly meaningful to him.
‘All four charities are close to my heart. It is rewarding to know where the money is being spent and the impact it’s making on the local community,’ he said.
‘I have seen first-hand the work of Hospice Isle of Man as they took care of two of my grandparents. The staff brought kindness, patience and a willingness to listen, which provided immense comfort to my family.’
Alongside the running challenge, Tom is also hosting a charity raffle to boost fundraising.
His place of work, Baker Tilly Isle of Man, said they’re behind him ‘every step of the way’.
