RNLI Volunteers Gear Up for London Marathon in Full Lifeboat Kit to Support Sea Rescue Charity
Volunteer helm Dan Sinclair and his friend Nathan Siddans are entering the final stretch of their incredible fundraising challenge, with just over two weeks remaining until they take on the London Marathon dressed in full RNLI lifeboat kit. The duo aims to raise awareness and funds for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, a charity that saves lives at sea and depends on voluntary donations.
Half Marathon Success in Heavy Gear
The pair have already demonstrated their dedication by completing the Deal Half Marathon while wearing full operational RNLI kit. This included thermals, drysuits with inbuilt boots, lifejackets, and helmets, weighing approximately 11 kilograms. Despite the challenging windy and wet conditions, they finished in an impressive time of 2 hours and 15 minutes, showcasing their resilience and commitment to the cause.
Fundraising Progress and Motivation
So far, Dan and Nathan have raised more than £2,000 through their efforts, leaving £2,600 to reach their target of £4,600 ahead of marathon day on Sunday, April 26. Dan, who has volunteered at Walmer RNLI for 18 years, expressed his gratitude, stating, "We've been blown away by the support so far. Knowing we're over halfway to our target with just a couple of weeks to go is hugely motivating as we head into the final part of our training."
Challenging the Full Marathon for Awareness
The upcoming London Marathon will see the duo tackle the full 26.2 miles once again dressed in full RNLI inshore lifeboat kit. This effort is designed to raise awareness of the physical and mental demands faced by volunteer lifeboat crews whenever their pagers sound, highlighting the urgent and often dangerous nature of their lifesaving work.
Previous Fundraising Achievements and Public Appeal
Nathan added, "The half marathon was tough, especially in the windy and wet conditions and wearing all the gear, but the support we received kept us going. Now we're focused on the marathon and doing everything we can to hit our fundraising target." Having previously raised £16,000 through an endurance cycling and hiking challenge in 2025, Dan and Nathan are once again pushing themselves to the limit to support the RNLI's vital work. With just over two weeks remaining, they are calling on the public to help them reach their goal and support RNLI volunteers who drop everything to save lives at sea.
