Dale athlete Erica Dixon completed her record-breaking attempt at the London Marathon on Sunday, April 26, in an impressive time of 4 hours, 40 minutes and 19 seconds.
She was one of 10 athletes representing Special Olympics Great Britain at the TCS London Marathon, with every member of the team successfully finishing the race.
The 26-year-old from Lartington is a member of Special Olympics Teesdale, which provides inclusive sporting opportunities for people with learning disabilities.
She is aiming to become the fastest and youngest female athlete with a learning disability to complete a marathon and evidence of her achievement is under review by Guinness World Records.
It was a busy weekend for Erica. Ahead of the race, she took part in a photoshoot in London’s Leicester Square, where she appeared on a giant electronic billboard promoting the marathon and her team.
The day after the race, she and her fellow runners were invited to Everton Football Club to celebrate their achievements.
She met Jack Grealish, who announced he will continue his role as an ambassador for Special Olympics GB for a further three years. The visit was also featured on the BBC Breakfast programme.
“Running the London Marathon has always been an ambition of mine,” said Erica.
“Training was hard work, but it was a brilliant experience. It was amazing to have so many people cheering along the route as we passed famous landmarks across London.
“Having been part of Special Olympics GB for more than 10 years, it was fantastic to join other athletes and be part of their first-ever team to run the marathon. It made it even more special to take part in a year when record numbers of runners completed the race and two athletes broke the two-hour barrier.”
She added: “Hopefully our team’s achievements will inspire more people with learning disabilities to get involved in sport and join a local club.”
Erica ran the marathon alongside Rhys Foster of Teesdale Athletic Club. “It was great to spend time and be running with Rhys,” she said. “He’s a very supportive person and a strong runner. He has already gone on to complete another marathon in Gateshead the following weekend.”
So far, Erica has raised £850 for Special Olympics GB in the lead-up to the event.
The team is raising funds for the organisation’s upcoming National Summer Games, taking place in Birmingham this August. Erica plans to compete in the swimming events alongside fellow members of Teesdale Special Olympics GB.
To support her Erica’s fundraising effort visit justgiving.com/page/erica-dixon-1
