More marathons lined up for fundraising Fed member
29 August 2024
Collin Baker shared details on his next set of long-distance runs after completing the Chicago Marathon, the United States Marine Corps Marathon, the Wendover Woods Half-Marathon, the Marrakesh Marathon, and the Big Sur Marathon all within the last year.
The temporary chief inspector was inspired to start running after being touched by the tragic story of Nicola Hughes, the Greater Manchester Police officer who was killed when attending a routine burglary call in 2012
“Nicola’s death struck a chord with me on the day it happened,” said Collin, 49.
“It impacted so many officers because it was a big reminder of the risk we put ourselves at, even in circumstances that might appear relatively safe and unremarkable.
“When I started to take long-distance running seriously and sign up for events, I chose her memorial fund as my cause because her passing had stayed with me and still does to this day.”
The Fund was set up following Nicola’s death by her father, Bryn Hughes MBE, to provide grants for children who have lost a family member to violent crime such as murder or manslaughter. The grants are used to set these children up with learning opportunities and pre-employment skills in an effort to rebuild their lives after sudden loss.
New York Marathon
Through his representation of the charity, Collin has struck up a strong friendship with Bryn – who he will run alongside as he takes on the New York Marathon in November.
He secured an entry to the popular event, which will take place the day after his 26-year anniversary in the Police Force, after securing membership in the New York Police Department’s running club as a member of an external law enforcement agency.
He paid tribute to Bryn’s perseverance in campaigning for a medal to be awarded in honour of fallen emergency service workers, which has recently been rewarded with the launch of the Elizabeth Emblem.
“This is something Bryn has fought for over the years and I think it’s great to finally have recognition for people who make the ultimate sacrifice for the Force and other emergency services.
“Of course, we would rather have these people back and nothing can ever replace them, but now we have some tangible recognition for what they have done."
Self-funded
Before New York, Collin will make a return to the Chicago Marathon in October. Next year, he will turn his attention to the Tokyo Marathon four days before his 50th birthday in March, and then his first-ever London Marathon in April.
All of his race entries are self-funded, meaning every penny raised through donations goes directly to the Memorial Fund, either through an official sponsorship place or independently.
“What I love about the charity is that it gives affected children a glimpse of normality.
"They have had their lives turned upside-down in the blink of an eye, and can then have the added blow of other areas of their lives being disrupted. So, if they can be helped then stay on the right track, that’s amazing,” Collin added.
Collin at the Big Sur Marathon, California in April.
The inspector also discussed the passion behind his international running exploits: “I’ve been doing running for nine years now and I’ve always liked travelling, so it’s two of my biggest interests mixed.
“To be able to do that and make some friends along the way, all while fundraising for a charity I love, is just fantastic. London will be my 14th full-length marathon.
“In terms of donations, it’s difficult going back to same people time and time again – I just have a rolling fundraising page. I’ll always do the run regardless of how much money is pledged, but I’m still so appreciative of all the support I get,” he ended.
Federation members can donate to Collin by visiting his JustGiving page.
More information on how you can support the Nicola Hughes Memorial Fund is available by emailing info@pcnicolasfund.co.uk
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