First YMCA Exeter Resident Completes London Marathon

On Sunday 28th April, YMCA Exeter resident, John Hajek completed the London Marathon, making him the first YMCA Exeter resident to complete the 26.2-mile course starting in Greenwich Park and ending at The Mall near Buckingham Palace. 

“It was really tough and I felt sick during the marathon,” explains John. “But I’m just happy that I finished it, I was definitely motivated by getting the medal at the end.  

“Seeing the crowds was phenomenal and it was amazing running over the London landmarks. I thought there would be spots where people were cheering you on, but it was just constant. People cheering you on, everywhere!”  

John became homeless at the age of 17. He was juggling work, studying at Exeter College and using the charity Night Stop to get a room every night, sometimes having to travel as far as Barnstaple. 

“It was a big relief when I was able to move into YMCA Exeter housing in 2017,” explains John. “Finally, I had stability and it was a lot easier to go to college and focus on my studies. 

“Since being at YMCA Exeter I’ve enjoyed the community and I’ve grown in confidence. I’ve had the chance to volunteer with IT support as well as join a study boot camp, earning a CompTIA certificate in cybersecurity.” 

John trained hard all through the winter months, ready to put his fitness to the ultimate test in the marathon. 

“I remember running with my brothers when I was younger,” says John. “They were always faster than me. And then a few years ago I ran for three minutes and was completely out of gas, I knew I needed to improve my fitness, so I used the couch to 5k app. In 2023 I joined the YMCA Exeter running group and did the 10km race at the Great West Run. Then in 2024 I ran the half-marathon.  

“My goal for the London Marathon was just to finish it and I hope it inspires others that I’ve completed it! It’s great to be able to raise money for young people facing homelessness in Devon, like I did.”   

John is so close to hitting his fundraising target of £1,000. Could you spare a few pennies and help him reach it?

Raising target of £1,000. Could you spare a few pennies and help him reach it?