‘Cometh the hour, cometh the man.’
‘Cometh the hour, cometh the man.’
Richard Whitehead MBE – Patron of Sarcoma UK
Richard Whitehead MBE has been a dedicated Patron of Sarcoma UK since 2013. His commitment to the charity is rooted in personal loss—his close friend and mentor, Simon Mellows, died from chondrosarcoma, a rare bone cancer. Richard has since used his platform as a world-class athlete to raise awareness of sarcoma and support those affected by it.
Champion for people affected by sarcoma
Richard was appointed as Sarcoma UK’s first Patron in the same year he received an MBE for services to athletics. His advocacy began with an extraordinary fundraising campaign: in 2013, he ran 40 marathons in 40 days from John O’Groats to Land’s End in memory of Simon and to raise vital funds for sarcoma research.
This effort highlighted Richard’s belief that everyone, regardless of their challenges, should have the chance to thrive and be represented.
Paralympic Gold and record-breaking achievements
Richard made history at the London 2012 Paralympics, winning gold in the T42 200m. He has since continued to compete at the highest level. In October 2024, he set a new world record for a double amputee marathon runner at the Chicago Marathon, finishing in 2:41:36. As of early 2025, he has completed 81 marathons, aiming to reach 100 by year’s end.
Ongoing advocacy and visibility
In 2024, Richard co-hosted the Dare to Defy documentary series on Prime Video, which focused on challenging perceptions of disability and promoting inclusivity in sport. His message of representation and resilience remains at the heart of his work, both on and off the track.
A voice for the sarcoma community
Richard continues to be a vocal supporter of Sarcoma UK’s work, using his public profile to elevate the voices of those affected by sarcoma. His support helps raise awareness of this rare cancer, and his legacy of endurance and advocacy offers hope to patients and families across the UK.
“I am honoured to be Sarcoma UK’s first ever Patron and hopefully I can pass on a message of hope through my dedication to sport and be an inspiration to the sarcoma community. I will use my role positively, to increase awareness of sarcoma cancer and have plans to fundraise to help Sarcoma UK achieve its objectives and pump even more money into sarcoma research.”
Recent achievements and upcoming events
In 2025, Richard Whitehead MBE embarked on an ambitious challenge: completing 20 marathons within the year to reach a milestone of 100 marathons. This endeavour not only showcases his athletic prowess but also serves to raise awareness for sarcoma, a cause close to his heart.
- Dubai Marathon (January 12, 2025): Richard commenced his 2025 marathon journey in Dubai, marking his 81st marathon overall.
Source - Milan Marathon (April 6, 2025): Continuing his challenge, he completed the Milan Marathon, further progressing towards his goal.
Source - TCS London Marathon (April 27, 2025): Richard served as an official starter for the elite wheelchair races and then participated in the marathon, marking his ninth marathon of the year.
Source - Run with Rich Event (September 27, 2025): Richard will host the annual “Run with Rich” event at Holme Pierrepont in Nottingham. This inclusive event encourages participants of all abilities to engage in physical activity, promoting community and awareness for sarcoma.
Source
Richard’s journey is a testament to his resilience and dedication. His story continues to inspire and motivate, making him an invaluable Patron for Sarcoma UK.
“If I could sum up everything I do, it would be what’s tattooed on my right arm: cometh the hour, cometh the man.”
