Aaron Ramsey's Marathon in Memory of Young Boy, 2026

Former Arsenal and Wales midfielder Aaron Ramsey is running the London Marathon to support a charity in memory of a young boy who died from a rare cancer.

Aaron Ramsey's Inspiring Marathon Effort Former Wales captain Aaron Ramsey, who played for Arsenal and other top clubs, has been forgiven for taking a break after announcing his retirement earlier this month. However, he has chosen to run the London Marathon on Sunday, a grueling task that requires dedication and perseverance. Ramsey admits that training has been challenging, especially when it's raining and windy, but he has enjoyed the experience, likening it to being in the trenches. Despite the difficulties, he is excited about the marathon and sees it as an opportunity to support a great cause. ## Ramsey Running for Charity Founded by Friends There is a personal reason why Ramsey is putting his body through this ordeal. He is running the marathon to support It's Never You, a charity founded by his friends Ceri and Frances Menai-Davis, after their six-year-old son, Hugh, died from a rare cancer. Ceri, who is also taking part in the marathon, will be carrying Hugh's shoes around his neck, while wearing the names of more than 500 children affected by serious illness on his back. ## Ramsey's Connection to the Charity Ramsey has a close connection to the charity, having known Hugh and his family well. He says that Ceri and Fran, along with their family, have been an absolute inspiration to him, his family, and many others. The charity was founded by Ceri and Frances to help other parents facing similar situations after their son's death from a rare cancer. Ramsey praises the charity's efforts, saying that they have done an unbelievable job in what they've done so far, and he knows they're only just getting started. ## Ramsey's Retirement and Future Plans Ramsey's retirement was a long time coming, and although he was still officially captain of Wales, he had not played any football for seven months before calling time on his career. He had been without a club since leaving Pumas in January, and his decision to retire was influenced by the fact that Wales missed out on the World Cup last month. Ramsey says that he left all options open to try and make the World Cup squad, but ultimately decided it was the right time to call it a day. He is now aiming to become a coach, having already completed most of his qualifications and having experience in senior management. ## Ceri Menai-Davis' Emotional Marathon Effort Ceri Menai-Davis, Hugh's father, is also taking part in the marathon, carrying Hugh's shoes around his neck and wearing the names of more than 500 children affected by serious illness on his back. Ceri explains that he runs the marathon to honor his son's memory and to show his support for the charity. He recalls the day he started training for the marathon, just before Hugh died, and how he completed the marathon two weeks after his son's passing. Ceri will be running with Hugh's shoes draped around his shoulders, and he says that he and his son will cross the finish line together.