Harry Newton, an 88-year-old retired grocer from Macclesfield, is set to become the oldest athlete in this Sunday's London Marathon. His remarkable running journey began by chance at age 57, and he has since completed 31 marathons, including 21 at London and one by circling his garden 461 times during lockdown. Newton will be cheered on by about 20 family members, including his wife Phyllis, 85.
A Late-Blooming Runner
Newton's running career started unexpectedly at a meeting of the Northern Council of Grocers in the Lake District. A representative from Mars confectionery spoke about the London Marathon and offered entry forms for charity fundraising. After receiving a form, Newton laced up running shoes for the first time in autumn 1994. "When you're on the farm, you tend to live the life of a farmer," he said. "And similarly as a grocer, you also work long hours. So I wasn't a runner at all before that."
Training Challenges and Perseverance
Newton's training for his first marathon was far from ideal. Due to knee issues, his longest run was only nine miles. An X-ray a week before the race revealed wear and tear in his knee, and his doctor advised against running the marathon. However, with thousands of pounds in sponsorship at stake, Newton decided to proceed. "That first one was slow, but I got round in five hours and 10 minutes by running and walking," he recalled. "Although I hurt all over for about a month afterwards."
Marathon Achievements and Advice
Newton's personal best at London is three hours, 52 minutes, and 30 seconds, set when he was 70. Last September, he completed the Morecambe Marathon in five hours and 56 minutes, well within the six-hour, 10-minute limit for a Good For Age place for over-85s. For first-time marathon runners, Newton offers simple advice: "Don't try to run too quickly, and keep a steady pace. And make sure your bowels are empty."
Support from Family and Community
Newton's wife Phyllis, though calling him "daft," has been a tremendous supporter. "She will be there this year, along with around 20 members of my family," Newton said. This year, he will start from the VIP area, with the flexibility to choose his start time and access private toilets. Julia Paternain, a world championship bronze medallist also racing in the same shoes, expressed admiration: "The fact that he's running a marathon at 88 is just so inspiring."
Future Plans and Tips for Seniors
Newton remains determined to continue running. "A few years ago, I probably wouldn't have thought to still be running at 88, but I'll keep doing it as long as I feel as if I can," he said. He advises older adults to consult a physio and perform strengthening exercises to stay injury-free. "I've found that very helpful," he noted. "And for the last five or six years, touch wood, I have been pretty clear. Sometimes you do go out and think, 'Oh, this knee's pinging a bit this morning', but you run a mile or so and you forget all about it."
