Robin Hood Mini Marathon Celebrated Young Running Stars at Schools Challenge Awards
Thursday 5th November 2026
Robin Hood Mini Marathon Celebrated Young Running Stars at Schools Challenge Awards
More than 80 local children recognised for their achievements, with Jesse Gray crowned overall school winner and eight-year-old Jacob Gadd receiving the Richard Whitehead Empowerment Award.
The Robin Hood Half Marathon has celebrated the achievements of young runners from across the local area at its annual Schools Challenge Awards, recognising their sporting accomplishments, determination and contributions to their communities.
More than 80 children were invited to receive trophies at the awards ceremony, celebrating performances across six age categories: Under 7, Under 9, Under 11, Under 13, Under 15 and Under 17.
The awards recognise the enthusiasm and commitment of young participants, highlighting the positive impact of running in bringing children together, building confidence and encouraging active lifestyles.
Jesse Gray takes the top school honour
Jesse Gray was named the overall winning school in the Schools Challenge, with Rushcliffe Comprehensive and West Bridgford Junior sharing joint second place.
The results celebrate the schools and pupils who took part in the challenge, showcasing the enthusiasm for running and the strength of the local school community.
Jacob Gadd receives Richard Whitehead Empowerment Award
One of the standout moments of the awards was the presentation of the Richard Whitehead Empowerment Award to eight-year-old Jacob Gadd, who received an impressive 15 nominations in recognition of his courage, determination and fundraising efforts.
Despite finding noise and crowds challenging, Jacob has repeatedly pushed himself beyond his comfort zone to take on running and walking challenges in support of charitable causes.
In 2024, Jacob took on a series of challenges to raise money for Our Dementia Choir, founded by Nottingham-born actress Vicky McClure. Over seven months, he completed a range of activities, including the Robin Hood Mini Marathon, and covered the equivalent distance between Nottingham's Old Market Square and Skegness Beach.
He returned to run the Mini Marathon in 2025, again raising money for the choir. Across his fundraising efforts for Our Dementia Choir, Jacob raised an incredible £2,355.
This year brought personal challenges for Jacob and his family following the loss of his uncle, David. Determined to honour his memory, Jacob set himself another running and walking challenge to raise money for the doctors and nurses who cared for his uncle at Hayward House, Nottingham City Hospital, through Nottingham Hospitals Charity.
His fundraising total has already reached £1,500, demonstrating his remarkable commitment to helping others during a difficult time.
Jacob's story is a powerful example of how sport can provide a platform for young people to develop confidence, overcome challenges and make a meaningful difference in their communities.
His 15 nominations for the Richard Whitehead Empowerment Award reflect the admiration and respect he has earned through his actions, both on and off the course.
"The Richard Whitehead Empowerment Award celebrates more than performance on the day. It recognises someone who has shown courage, determination and a positive spirit that inspires those around them. Jacob has demonstrated that true success comes from embracing challenges, believing in yourself and supporting others along the way. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. Keep inspiring others to dream big, be active and never let anything hold them back." Richard Whitehead MBE
Celebrating the next generation
The Schools Challenge Awards are an important opportunity to recognise the young people who make the Robin Hood Mini Marathon such a special event. From age-category achievements to acts of outstanding determination and generosity, the awards celebrate the many ways children can shine through sport.
By encouraging participation, celebrating achievement and recognising inspiring young role models, the Robin Hood Mini Marathon continues to champion the next generation of runners and help create positive experiences that extend far beyond race day.
Entries are now open for the 2027 Robin Hood Mini Marathon! Get your school involved (although entry to the awards is automatic), inspire the next generation of runners and be part of another fantastic race day on Sunday 26th September.
