Runners Making their Miles Matter More

In an extraordinary show of endurance and commitment, YMCA Staff & Supporters will be taking on the Super Half Marathons in 2026. Grace Maddocks, Head of Comms for YMCA – alongside YMCA CEO, Steve Bavington – has recruited support from her Dad, local legend, Blind Dave Heeley and youngest sister Dannie to take on the six iconic half marathons across Europe within a single year. Their goal: to raise over £36,000 to support and expand youth work across the Black Country.

The Superhalfs series includes races in Lisbon, Prague, Berlin, Copenhagen, Cardiff and Valencia, offering a unique test of stamina and spirit. As if that wasn’t challenging enough the team will complete Prague and Berlin within 24 hours! Grace said, “I’ve watched Dad run around the world for years, raising millions for different charities in the process. He’s a source of inspiration, not just for our family, but for countless people and after running the London Marathon last year with him and my sisters, I wanted to continue to challenge myself, whilst supporting a cause I love, so signed up for the 6 Superhalfs. Once I mentioned it to Steve, he was keen to be involved and thus the challenge and team was formed!”

YMCA Black Country Group has long been at the forefront of youth development, offering safe spaces, mentoring, and opportunities for young people to thrive. Having recently acquired funding from West Brom Building Society for the launch of a Youth Café in Sandwell, YMCA are keen to replicate this in many other areas and so funds raised from the challenge will go directly toward expanding this model, ensuring more young people have access to a safe space to be themselves, spend time with trusted adults and overcome barriers they may be facing. At the heart of YMCA’s vision is the belief that every young person should have the opportunity to belong, contribute, and thrive – a vision this challenge aims to bring to life.

Steve Bavington, CEO of YMCA Black Country Group and fellow runner in the challenge, adds: “Having only run one half marathon in my lifetime, this challenge will be a great personal achievement, but being able to raise money to help more young people discover who they are and what they can become, is priceless. Youth work is powerful and has sadly been overlooked in recent years. This challenge is our way of standing up for them and saying: you matter.”

Blind Dave adds, “Running has always been about more than miles for me, it’s about making a difference. This challenge is a way to give back and invest in the future of our region – and what a privilege to be able to do it alongside my kids again!”

The team is calling on the community, businesses, and supporters to get behind the campaign, donate, and help spread the word. Every step they take will be a step toward a stronger, safer, and more hopeful Black Country.

For more information, please contact Grace Maddocks on grace.maddocks@ymcabc.org.uk or 01902 371 550