Meet Our London Marathon Runners: Holly

Holly is one of the incredible runners taking on the 2026 London Marathon for Step by Step. Here she shares a bit about herself, why she chose Step by Step, and the personal reasons behind undertaking this challenge.

Tell Us a Bit About Yourself…

My name is Holly Becket. I’m 27 years old and work as a Land Manager in London. My role involves securing planning consent for residential developments.

I’ve been running on and off for the past five years, but I’ve never gone beyond a half marathon – mostly because I’ve been too nervous to take the leap! Outside of running, I enjoy going to the gym and playing netball. 

Why Did You Choose to Run for Step by Step?

Step by Step is an incredible charity that truly deserves greater recognition. I was first introduced to the charity when I started working at Croudace, as they are one of our partner charities. Every teenager and young adult deserves a supportive upbringing, and becoming an adult can be daunting enough without limited support, it must be incredibly overwhelming. 

Since accepting my London Marathon place, I’ve visited the Foyer accommodation in Aldershot. It was really valuable to gain a deeper understanding of the work the charity does.

I am truly honoured to be running for an amazing charity and hope to raise as much money as I can!

Is There a Young Person’s Story That Resonated with You?

While I’ve been fortunate enough to never experience homelessness, I have faced mental health challenges over the past five years. I especially connected with London’s story, as for more than a year depression and anxiety completely took over my life. I withdrew from socialising and spent most of my time in bed.

Thankfully, I’m in a much better place now. The care and support that Step by Step provides to young people is truly inspirational, and I only wish I had known about them when I was going through such a difficult period.

How Did You Feel When Offered Your Marathon Place?

A mixture of terrified but very excited! What an amazing opportunity I’ve been given!

How Are You Hoping to Reach Your Fundraising Goal?

I’m planning on holding a couple of bake sales in the office and a charity dinner party. I’m also hoping to hold a charity raffle.

What Does Running the London Marathon Mean for You?

I used to love running before depression and anxiety took over my life. I went from running and going to the gym five times a week to not exercising at all. Gradually, I found my way back to running, and it became my saviour. Whenever I feel myself slipping into a dark place, I go for a run, and it really helps. 

Running this marathon will be incredibly emotional for me, as it represents how far I’ve come over the past five years. Being able to do it in support of a charity that helps young people facing mental health challenges and homelessness makes the experience even more meaningful. 

Do You Have a Message for Our Supporters?

I’m incredibly passionate about this cause, having seen first-hand the incredible work Step by Step does and the truly life-changing impact of their support. Any donation, no matter how small, will help provide young people with the care, guidance, and opportunities they deserve. Many of us have grown up in safe, supportive homes, and we have the chance to be the heroes for those who haven’t. 

If you would like to sponsor Holly's fundraising, or follow her story, please visit her Sponsorship Page.