Ben Armitage is taking on the London Marathon is support of the Captain David Seath Memorial Fund this Sunday. This is a personal reflection from someone who knew David through Sandhurst and later serving together in the Royal Artillery.
From training courses at Larkhill to time spent in Tidworth, their friendship grew through shared experiences, tough days, and plenty of time in and out of uniform.
As he takes on the London Marathon in David’s memory, he talks openly about their bond, the challenge of training, and what it means to run 26 miles in honour of a friend who clearly left a lasting impact.
1. Tell us a little about your link with David and the inspiration behind getting the trainers on?
I first met David when attending Sandhurst, and we later completed various Royal Artillery courses together at Larkhill. He was also based in Tidworth at the same time as me while I was with 1RHA and he was with 19RA. Over the years we spent more than a few nights out together and he was a dependable gym buddy!
2. How’s your training going for the London Marathon? What’s currently on your running track list?
I’m not a natural runner, far from it, so it’s safe to say it’s been a challenge. Leaving the military in 2015, running isn’t a regular part of my spare time. However, I’m slowly making progress and starting to feel better running longer distance at a steady pace. As for playlists, I find listening to podcasts helpful and then something more upbeat when I’m starting to tire. Naturally ‘Eye of the Tiger’ has been played more than a couple of times!
3. What would you think David would say to give you that little bit of extra ‘unique’ encouragement to get through the marathon?
I’m pretty confident he’d be laughing at the thought of me running the marathon! He knew that I wasn’t a big fan of cardio other than on the rugby pitch, so he’d probably be playing on that as motivation.
4. What’s your thoughts that ten years on David’s legacy continues to go from-strength-to-strength supporting veterans and their families through H4H?
It’s crazy to think it’s been a decade since we lost Dave. He was such a remarkable and larger-than-life character and it’s wonderful that his legacy continues to inspire and support veterans and their families.
5. On what will prove a poignant day, we expect you will feel a range of emotions as you progress through the city and, indeed, cross the finish line?
I’m sure as I struggle through the 26 miles knowing that the challenge and pain will be largely offset by knowing I’m doing this in memory of Dave. I joined a large group finishing the last 3 miles back in 2016, and it’s an honour to do the full marathon 10 years on.
6. What would you say to encourage people to get behind your efforts on Sun 26 April?
This challenge is ultimately to support and celebrate David Seath’s life. He had a huge impact on so many people and would be grateful for any donations to help keep his legacy alive. I’m not a natural runner so hopefully the thought of someone carrying over 100kg and covering 26 miles will encourage people to donate!
Make a donation to Ben’s fundraising page.