ESMS Junior School are delighted to be welcoming Ben Smith, otherwise known as Marathon Man and the founder of the 401 challenge, into School this week. Ben will be talking to pupils and parents about how we can positively impact the way children view themselves and what they can achieve.
Ben’s story is one of triumph over adversity. Growing up he wasn’t a runner. He was bullied at school and never spoke about it through fear of making things worse. As an adult Ben learned to recondition his thought processes and open himself up to new, exciting and scary things. This inspired him to complete 401 marathons in 401 days and set up the 401 Challenge which is about building confidence, self-esteem and promoting positive mental health. He has raised an impressive £330,000 for charity and his adventure has inspired hundreds and thousands of people around the globe to make a difference to their own lives and to the lives of others.
Ben’s starting point is that the limitations we think we have are only our own thoughts. He has received many awards for his role in the 401 challenge, including The National Pride of Britain Fundraiser of the Year Award 2016, The Government’s Power of Light Award 2016, The BBC Sports Personality of the Year and The Helen Rollason Award 2016. We are delighted to welcome him in to our School.
