Wayne sets sight on his next challenge

This time last month former jockey Wayne Burton was just days away from one of the biggest challenges of his life. Following months of rigorous, often soul-destroying training, he was getting ready to join the starting line of his first ever marathon – London 2024.

In 2008, a fall over hurdles at Exeter racecourse resulted in damage to his head, neck and spinal column, putting him in a wheelchair. Despite these life-changing injuries, Wayne’s focus and positivity remained and his dedication to rehabilitation kept him as fit and strong as possible. 

Having recently turned 40, Wayne wanted to do something huge to celebrate and the London Marathon certainly didn’t disappoint. Despite the day being in his own words, the ‘toughest since my accident 16 years ago’ he completed the iconic race in 6 hours and 38 minutes and raised over £3500 for spinal research in the process. 

Since 2021, Wayne has been based at the Injured Jockey Fund’s Oaksey House and he is grateful for all their support in his training for the marathon – especially Scott Reed, his support runner, and marathon regular Clare Hazell. They are also helping him train for his next challenge which is The Big Half on Sunday 1^st September – a 13.1 mile course that sets off from Tower Bridge and weaves towards the Cutty Sark in Greenwich, passing many other London landmarks on the way.

It doesn’t end there though, he also plans on tackling the London Marathon again in 2025, using everything he learned this time round to try and beat his time and raise vital funds for the IJF.

You can read more about Wayne on his website – www.wayneburton.co.uk, and follow him on Twitter/X to keep up to date with all his training.