Derry man running from Derry to Belfast to raise funds for ‘Include Youth’ charity

Danske Bank employee Stephen Morrison will edge within touching distance of his 72.4-mile target when he completes his hometown’s biggest sports event, the Waterside Half Marathon, on Sunday, September 1.

The father of one became aware of the crucial work ‘Include Youth’ does in improving the lives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds when his employers became their charity partner earlier this year.

The organisation works with young people to aid their personal development, reach their educational goals, and help them fulfil their potential.

Their services include a range of tailored employability, personal development, and good relations programs in partnership with other community-based organisations.

Former Irish Champion kickboxer, Stephen has always had a keen interest in keeping fit, and after catching the running bug in recent years, he made his racing debut at the 39th edition of the Waterside Half in 2022.

“When Danske Bank partnered with Include Youth we decided we wanted to try and raise funds and attention for the organisation in a multitude of ways,” he explained.

Stephen believed the way he could show the struggles young children face was to run the length between the Northern cities.

“All children deserve the best start in life and if I can make a difference to even just one child then all the miles and aching legs will be worth it.” Said Stephen.

Stephen is completing his challenge by taking part in six races across the North this year and to date he has completed two Ten Mile events at Derry and Ballyliffin and Half Marathons in Omagh and Strabane Lifford.

In September he will complete the challenge by running the Waterside Half in his hometown of Derry before the Belfast Half Marathon.

“The challenge has gone very well so far and with each race, I’m hitting a new personal best,” he revealed. “Training is going great and I’m getting fitter every week, my last race was the Strabane Lifford in May so I have a layoff until the start of September for the Waterside.”

On his charity fundraising, Stephen said: “I am now touching £700 in funds raised against a target of £1000, so with two more races to go I’m hopeful I can meet and even exceed that target.”

Finishing his part of his journey with the waterside marathon. This will be Stephen's 3rd time running the Waterside Half “and there will be plenty more to come.” Said, Stephen.

Stephen already has one eye on more ways to support Include Youth. “I’m already planning challenges for next year, I will be increasing my miles and will be competing in full marathons.”

Lastly, Stephen thanked everyone for donating saying “A huge thanks to everybody who has donated to this challenge so far, please keep donating and help me meet the target, the children that Include Youth help deserve it so thank you.”

If want to support Stephen’s journey you can support him here:https://shorturl.at/ciBY6