A Torfaen primary schoolteacher who ran the London Marathon on Sunday 27 April inspired over 200 pupils to take on their own fundraising challenge in the school
Pupils and staff from Cwmffrwdoer Primary School took part in a special mini-marathon on Friday 2 May to celebrate the incredible achievement of Mrs Maguire, the school’s Year one teacher and senior leader, who completed the 26.2 mile race on Sunday.
Mrs Maguire, an advocate for running and children’s fitness, helped organise the event to raise funds for a new trail and climbing frame for the school playground—facilities to encourage even more physical activity among pupils during playtimes.
The children’s mini-marathon was a sponsored event, with all proceeds going toward the playground project.
The course, mapped out by Mrs Maguire herself, wound around the school grounds and through the forest school area. Older children stepped up to act as marshals, handing out water, fresh orange slices, and jelly babies to keep the younger runners going.
Mrs Maguire is no stranger to promoting fitness in school. As a member of the national steering group for The Daily Mile, she has championed the initiative for years, encouraging children to run or walk every day to boost their mental and physical wellbeing. She firmly believes in the benefits of exercise for children’s overall health, focus, and happiness.
Guinness World Record
Her marathon effort was not only a personal triumph—she is now officially a Guinness World Record holder, having taken part in the largest number of people to complete a marathon.
“Running has such a powerful way of bringing people together,” said Mrs Maguire. “It’s wonderful to see the whole school out enjoying the fresh air, supporting one another, and working toward a shared goal.”
The children’s mini-marathon was a sponsored event, with all proceeds going toward the playground project.
The Daily Mile
Cath Bingham from RunWales and The Daily Mile attended the school’s event and praised the energy and enthusiasm shown by everyone involved.
Sarah Roque, headteacher at Cwmffrwdoer Primary School, said: “We are incredibly proud of Mrs Maguire and all of our pupils for embracing this event with such enthusiasm. It’s been a fantastic way to celebrate a remarkable achievement while also encouraging our children to stay active and support a shared goal. The sense of teamwork, community spirit, and determination on display was truly inspiring.”