Brockenhurst fundraiser Steve Radjen finishes 60 marathons after turning 60 for Naomi House and Jacksplace

A BROCKENHURST fundraiser has crossed the finish line in the last of an epic run of 60 marathons in aid of a hospice charity.

Having turned 60 last year, Steve Radjen chose to mark that milestone by carrying out that number of 26.2-mile runs to raise £600,000 for Naomi House and Jacksplace hospices for children and young adults.

The charity in Winchester provides support for families of those with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.

As reported in the A&T, Steve initially hoped to complete the feat in as many days from 17th August.

But a trouble-stricken start and having to pause for 14 days due to illness prompted him to scale this back to around five a week.

Completing the last marathon by running up to the charity’s base in Sutton Scotney on 18th February, Steve was greeted by 50 cheering supporters.

Children visiting the hospices, alongside staff and Steve’s family and friends, cheered him on through the final moments. He was also joined by friends on foot and bicycle.

His efforts have so far raised more than £200,000 – two thirds of his target – for Naomi House and Jacksplace, with donations still sought.

Steve continued to work full time throughout his challenge, rising at the crack of dawn to endure weather conditions ranging from the heat of summer to the cold, wet and dark of winter.

“It’s been a hell of a journey,” he said afterwards.

“I couldn’t have done it without the help of friends who joined me running in torrential rain and blistering heat.

“My incredible wife Gerry has been there for me through the darkest days of the challenge and kept me going.”

Steve’s active fundraising for Naomi House and Jacksplace goes back to when, at the age of 42, he ended “20 years of inactivity” to run the London Marathon.

In 2021, he was awarded the British Empire Medal for previous charity efforts which racked up around £300,000.

Thanking all those who have donated so far, he added: “I’ve been raising money for this amazing charity since 2005 and I’ve been a trustee there for the past 10 years.”

Mark Smith, CEO at the charity, praised Steve for his “amazing individual achievement”.

“Steve, we are so grateful to you, for all of the voluntary work you have given to the charity as a trustee and for the phenomenal fundraising challenges you have committed yourself to over the years,” he said.

“As a charity, we are dependent on voluntary contributions from the community, from people like Steve, so that we can keep on delivering expert care and support for the families who need our hospices.

“Thank you, Steve – you are an absolute inspiration.”

For more information or to donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/steve-radjen-60in60at60