Inspiring, nurturing and empowering young people with a vision impairment.

NCW students witness a moment in marathon history

Students sat in the grandstand watching the runners

Every year, we are incredibly grateful to VICTA UK, who kindly invite our students to be their guests at the London Marathon grandstand, giving them the chance to soak up the atmosphere of one of the world’s greatest sporting events.

This year’s visit was extra special.

While enjoying the electric atmosphere of the marathon on26 April 2026, our students witnessed a truly historic sporting moment as Sebastian Sawe set a new men’s world record, finishing the London Marathon in an astonishing 1:59:30.

To be present for such a landmark achievement was an unforgettable experience for our students, bringing the excitement, energy and inspiration of elite sport right to the heart of the day.

Alongside the thrill of watching world‑class athletes compete, the visit offered our students the opportunity to experience the scale of a major international event, celebrate sporting excellence and feel part of something truly momentous.

We are hugely thankful to VICTA UK for their continued generosity and support in making experiences like this possible. Days like these create lasting memories and provide powerful inspiration for our students — and witnessing history in the making made this year’s visit one we will remember for a very long time.

We would also like to say a huge thank you to Dan Boyd, who ran the London Marathon on behalf of New College Worcester, raising an incredible amount of money to support our students. Watching the marathon knowing one of our supporters was taking part for NCW made the day even more special.

Mr Painter and Mr Styles are also no strangers to a marathon and were among those taking on the challenge this year. Following the event, they kindly brought their marathon medals into school, giving students the opportunity to explore them tactilely and hear first‑hand about the experience of completing such an iconic race.

Moments like these help bring major sporting events to life for our students, combining inspiration, real‑world experience and meaningful connections to the wider community.

Dan post race smiling holding his medal
Mr Painter and Mr Styles smiling whilst holding their medals
Close up of the medal
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