Hi, I’m Michael. This April I’m running the London Marathon — my first full 26.2 miles — for two things I care deeply about: running and puffins.

Before becoming a teacher (and before Ballyclare), I studied zoology and spent time on Skokholm Island, Wales, researching puffins. It’s still one of the best things I’ve ever done and explains why puffins have become my thing — from my classroom mascot Percy the Puffin to an alarming amount of puffin-related items.

I started running in 2022, barely making it through parkrun. A few years on, I run with County Antrim Harriers and have completed races up to a half marathon. Doubling that distance makes this my biggest challenge yet.

All money raised will support conservation and zoological work on Skokholm and Skomer Island, helping protect the birds that started it all!

Thanks for supporting me through the challenging training to make it to 26.2 miles,

From Michael, Percy and the Puffins!