Ipswich teen's marathon bid to repay charity that helped him adapt to UK life

Why it matters: The Suffolk New College  student hopes to raise £2,000 for the YMCA, which has helped him adjust to life in the UK after arriving from Sudan two years ago.

The details: Osman, who studies English (ESOL) and Maths, has been training regularly on the streets of Ipswich in preparation for the event.

"I've never run a marathon before — but the training is going very well. I run with a friend around Ipswich. I also do yoga. I'm really excited by this. The YMCA will be supporting me during the run and I'm determined to complete the course," he said.

By the numbers: Osman has already raised over £600 towards his target and has been completing half marathons in preparation for the 26-mile run.

Support efforts: Suffolk New College has donated branded training kit and will be buying him trainers to support his fundraising effort.

Craig Shimmon, Head of Marketing at Suffolk New College, said: "Hats off to Osman. He is a true inspiration. Supporting him via the donation of training kit is the least we can do."

The college is also staging additional fundraising events, some organised by students.

The bottom line: "I'm so grateful to them and want to raise as much as I can for people who have helped me so much. I really want to give something back to the YMCA, as I lived there and know they need extra help financially," Osman said.

Those wishing to donate to Osman's charity effort can visit his fundraising page on the YMCA England & Wales website.

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