Aaron Ramsey, days after announcing his retirement, participated in the London Marathon.
The former Wales captain and Arsenal midfielder swapped the football pitch for the streets of London.
“I’m excited,” Ramsey said, reflecting on the challenge ahead of him.
Ramsey’s Marathon Charity
Ramsey ran the marathon to support It’s Never You, a charity started by Ceri and Frances Menai-Davis after their son, Hugh, died from a rare cancer at the age of six.
Ramsey has a personal connection to the cause. “As a charity, it’s really close to my heart,” Ramsey explained.
He knew Hugh and his family well: “I knew Hugh very well. My eldest boy, Sonny, is a similar age and they used to play with each other.”
Ceri Menai-Davis also took part in the marathon, carrying Hugh’s shoes and wearing the names of over 500 children affected by serious illness.
Ramsey spoke highly of Ceri and Frances, saying, “They’ve done an unbelievable job in what they’ve done so far, and I know they’re only just getting started,” adding that their drive to make a difference in Hugh’s memory is inspiring.
Training and Preparation
Ramsey acknowledged the difficulty of training for the marathon. “Training’s been difficult, when the rain’s coming down and it’s wet and windy, and it can be quite a lonely place sometimes.”
Despite the challenges, he found the process rewarding. “But actually, I’ve enjoyed it in a weird way, being in the trenches a little bit.”
His recent retirement allowed him the flexibility to dedicate time to this cause. “Now I’m retired, it frees me up a little bit more to be able to do these things.”
Ramsey’s Retirement
Ramsey’s retirement marked the end of a career that included time at Arsenal, Juventus, Rangers and Cardiff.
He had been without a club since leaving Mexican side Pumas in January, a move made with the intention of keeping him fit.
Ramsey’s participation highlights his commitment to supporting causes close to him.