We’re delighted to introduce one of our amazing London Marathon runners who will be taking on the iconic 26.2 miles in support of Leeds Mind this April.
We caught up with Esther Smyth to find out more about what inspired her to sign up for the London Marathon, how her training is going, and what running for Leeds Mind means to her.
For many people, the London Marathon is a once-in-a-lifetime challenge. For Esther Smyth, taking on the world-famous race in the UK’s capital is a lifelong dream and a powerful way to support mental health in her home community.
Read on to get to know Esther a little better, and to see why we’re so proud to have her on Team Leeds Mind.
Taking on one of the UK’s biggest marathons
“It’s been a dream of mine to run the London Marathon for as long as I can remember. My dad has always been a keen runner, so I grew up watching the marathon on the TV and have been to watch him and my brother run the race a couple of times. The atmosphere is amazing, and I think it’s such an inspiring day. Every year I say I’d rather be running it than watching it, and finally, I’m getting the chance to do so!”
Running for Leeds Mind
Although she is now based in London, “proud Leeds lass” Esther grew up in Leeds.
“The city has always been a huge part of who I am. Choosing to support Leeds Mind feels like a way of giving back to the community that shaped me.”
“Leeds Mind’s work within the community makes a real difference to people’s lives, and running the London Marathon for them allows me to raise awareness and funds for such an important cause, while also carrying a piece of home with me on the day.”
Why mental health matters
Mental health, like physical health, is something we all have. One in five adults in the UK is currently living with a common mental health condition, and that number is rising.
“Although I think as a society we’re much more open about our mental health and breaking down the stigma [than we used to be], there’s still a lot more that can be done.”
“I recently read that loneliness could be comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. This stat really highlighted to me how essential mental health support is, not just for emotional wellbeing but for overall health.”
We asked Esther what she hopes her fundraising will achieve:
“I hope my fundraising will make a real and tangible difference to people in the Leeds community by helping Leeds Mind continue its vital work.”
Training for the challenge
This isn’t Esther’s first rodeo (sorry, marathon), having run the Paris Marathon back in 2018, but her training has changed over the years.
“I’ve realised I can’t just get up and out the door anymore to do a long run. I now have to spend a lot more time on the warmup and cool down to make sure I don’t get injured.”
Injury has been her biggest hurdle, Esther told us, “I had ongoing pain in my hip in 2025, and I was so worried that it was going to cause me issues for the marathon. However, I’ve been seeing a physio once a week, which has made all the difference!”
Structure and routine have been a big motivator for Esther, who has been keeping up with weekly running and gym plans in the lead up to the marathon, taking place on Sunday 26th April this year.
Her favourite running advice? Don’t get bogged down by the numbers.
“If you become obsessed with your speed, I think it can sometimes completely take the enjoyment out of the run.”
Looking ahead to marathon day
Setting goals is a part of many runners’ race prep. Whether shooting for a personal best or being proud to be there at the starting line, training motivation comes in all shapes and sizes. When we asked Esther what she was hoping for from race day, she told us, “If I ran 4 hours 30 minutes, I would be ecstatic but honestly, my aim is to get round pain-free (or as pain-free as possible!) and enjoy the race.”
Running a marathon is a huge challenge, and Esther told us that her community is what keeps her going. She’s looking forward to seeing her friends and family cheering her on.
“It helps so much to see people you know and keeps you in a positive frame of mind.”
And the nerves?
“Probably just the same things that every runner is nervous about. Hitting the wall, being in pain, toenails coming off…the list goes on and on!”
Esther reflected on the advice her dad gave her that keeps her grounded.
“A marathon isn’t just 2 half marathons, and he was so right! I think you just have to take it one mile at a time and not think too far ahead.”
After the finish line…
Esther already knows how she’ll celebrate:
“I will definitely cry with happiness when I cross the finish line. Then, I think it’ll be straight to the pub with my friends and family. I then plan to have a few days off work to lie on the sofa and do absolutely nothing!” which we think will be well and truly deserved!
Taking on the London Marathon is no small feat, and we’re incredibly grateful to have two passionate and determined supporters running for Leeds Mind. By fundraising for us, our runners are helping to ensure that people across Leeds can access vital mental health support when they need it most.
Join Team Leeds Mind
We can’t do what we do without people like Esther and people like you! Every penny raised by our fantastic fundraisers goes towards our services, including counselling, suicide bereavement support, employment services, group support and more.
If you are interested in joining Team Leeds Mind, we have lots of ways you can get involved. For the runners, we have places available on this year’s Leeds Marathon and Half Marathon, as well as the Leeds 10K in June. Explore our events calendar to find more exciting fundraising challenges, and fun days out to get stuck in with. We have something for everyone, and we would love to have you on our team.
You can keep up with Esther’s progress and support her here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/esther-smyth
