Nineteen-year-old Lloyd Martin has made history as the youngest person with Down Syndrome to complete the London Marathon. His achievement, recognized with a Guinness World Records plaque at the finish line, marks a remarkable milestone in his life.
Martin, brimming with joy and accomplishment, described the experience as a dream fulfilled. Despite facing challenges with motor function, he celebrated his 26.4-mile journey with some impressive dance moves. His determination and spirit shone through as he pushed himself through the course.
For the initial 14 miles, Martin ran continuously, achieving a personal best before transitioning to a combination of walking and jogging. His mother, Ceri Hooper, expressed immense pride in her son’s accomplishment. “In Lloyd’s words, it’s achieving his dream,” she shared. “Really, anything is possible if you put your mind to it. With a bit of work, you can achieve it.”
Hooper, herself a former international track and field athlete representing Wales, ensured Lloyd received the training and support needed to pursue his marathon goal. Lloyd had built his strength and endurance primarily through participating in 5k races. With a background of running six marathons, including four in London, as well as the Boston and Chicago editions, Hooper provided invaluable guidance and inspiration.
“We come from a big running family,” Ceri said. “And I think he would just like to prove that he can go that step, or lots of steps, further.”
In the years before, they’ve both heard from people talk about things that Lloyd wasn’t going to be capable of doing. They did everything they could to change that and create his own story.
“Unfortunately, when you have a child with disabilities, a lot of people will make assumptions that they will never do this and they will never do that,” Ceri says. “From day one, Lloyd’s pediatrician reeled off a list of ailments that he would probably have, how he may never walk, he may never talk, he may not be able to feed himself. And, you know, you have to live with this constantly for many years until you realize, well actually, you know, he can do most things.”
“I think parents who are in my situation are just fed up of that stereotype and we just want to put it out there that our children are more than capable of doing anything that any mainstream child can do. And you know, the message is coming across loud and clear with Lloyd running a marathon.”
The journey to the London Marathon was not solitary. The Special Olympics organization for Great Britain played a crucial role in helping Lloyd prepare for the race, where he became the youngest person ever to finish in the intellectual impairment category. This accomplishment not only sets a record but also serves as a testament to Lloyd’s determination and the support of his community.
For Ceri, this was an emotional occasion. “I’ve run a few marathons but I think I’ll be far more nervous, but obviously hugely proud. It’s such a fabulous event. It’s a huge day. But I’ll be super proud to be running next to him.”
Lloyd was asked what it was like to with his mom by his side, cheering him on. “Good, confident, kind, humble. Like a mother-son duo,” he stated.
And with the interview wrapped up, Lloyd headed straight to the trampoline, readying himself for the afternoon’s 4-mile run. Ceri also put on her running shoes.
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