From parkrun to London Marathon – Running for the National Forest

What makes this story truly remarkable is that it all began within the stunning surroundings of the National Forest, where Mark first found his stride at a local parkrun. Now, he’s running for the National Forest, raising awareness and funds to support this vital green space.

It was December 2015 when Mark, along with his daughter Laura, took part in their very first parkrun. As part of Laura’s Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, they ventured out, not knowing it would spark a passion that would change both their lives.

"Horrible hills, sweat, and tears – and not all mine - but it set us on a journey," said Mark, reflecting on that first challenging run.

Laura went on to complete her Gold Award, while Mark kept going, logging more than 368 parkruns at 74 different venues across the UK, along with an impressive 197 volunteer stints.

"Now, 367 runs later, my addiction to parkrun is stronger than ever," says Mark, who runs or walks each week with his wife Nicky and volunteers regularly.

He also played a pivotal role in the local parkrun community as a run director at Swad Junior parkrun and is preparing for an exciting new chapter as the event director of Coronation Park parkrun, set to launch near Swadlincote in the new year.

Mark's passion for running didn't stop at parkrun. In 2022, he joined the local running club, Swad Joggers, and quickly immersed himself in helping others achieve their running goals.

After completing both co-leader and UKA LiRF (Leadership in Running Fitness) training, Mark became a group leader, typically guiding the top group on six-mile runs twice a week.

"Everything was going very well," said Mark, “until an unfortunate accident on November 10, 2022. “

While leading a six-mile group run, he tripped over a lip in the pavement, cracking the lower leg bone from knee to ankle.

"I was off my feet for weeks, in a cast and on crutches, but I was determined to finish the year strong." And he did just that. On New Year’s Eve, with his leg still in a cast and on crutches, Mark showed up at Alvaston parkrun, completing the course and feeling an enormous sense of achievement.

Despite the physical and mental challenges, Mark’s perseverance saw him return to parkrun the very next day – New Year’s Day 2023 – and he hasn’t missed a week since, except for holidays in places without parkruns.

Having spent countless hours running within the National Forest, Mark has developed a deep connection with the area. "It’s where I first started running, and now I want to give back by running for the National Forest," he explains.

With the 2025 London Marathon set to coincide with his 60th birthday, this milestone race represents a personal and philanthropic challenge.

Mark has entered the London Marathon ballot nine times without success. "I’ve been trying for almost a decade," he said, “and now, finally, I get to achieve this bucket list goal and celebrate my 60th birthday in a meaningful way.

By running the London Marathon, Mark hopes to raise much-needed funds to help maintain and expand the Forest, ensuring future generations can enjoy its natural beauty, just as he did during his running journey.

As Mark approaches his 60th birthday, he’s not only aiming to tick the London Marathon off his bucket list but also to set a new personal best – all while championing a cause close to his heart. “I’ve completed 23 half marathons, but never a full marathon. It’s time,” he said, determined to make 2025 the year he crosses the marathon finish line.

With the support of the local community and a passion that has only grown stronger with every mile, Mark Nugent is set to inspire others, proving that age is no barrier to achieving lifelong dreams – and giving back to the places that helped him along the way.

To support Mark in his fundraising efforts for the National Forest, please consider donating to help us continue in our efforts to protect nature and wildlife by planting trees and creating more habitats for them to thrive.