Growing up gay, I often felt like the odd one out - like I was running a race no one had prepared me for. There were times when I couldn’t see the finish line, moments when I wondered if staying true to myself was worth the struggle. The world didn’t always feel like a place where I could belong, and for a long time, I believed I had to hide parts of who I was just to keep up.
But over the years, I’ve learned that pride isn’t just about surviving - it’s about thriving. It’s about standing tall, pushing forward, and proving to myself and others that authenticity is worth fighting for. That’s why I’m running the London Marathon for Stonewall. Because every mile I run is for the kid who felt lost, for the teenager who couldn’t see a future, and for every person still searching for the courage to live openly and unapologetically.
Stonewall fights for a world where no one has to question if they belong, where every LGBTQ+ person can step forward with confidence, knowing they are valued and seen. With every step I take in this marathon, I’m running toward that future - one where no one has to run from who they are.
This one’s for you little Louis
Organizer

Louis Bolton
Organizer
England
Stonewall
Beneficiary