At 88 years old, Harry Newton stands as the oldest participant in this Sunday’s London Marathon, embodying a testament to endurance and late-life athleticism. A retired grocer from Macclesfield, Newton’s running journey began relatively late, at the age of 57, when an opportunity to raise funds for a grocers’ charity introduced him to marathon running.

Newton’s entry into the sport was unconventional. Attending a Northern Council of Grocers meeting in the Lake District, he was offered a marathon entry by a representative from Mars confectionery. Despite minimal training and a history of knee issues, he committed to the challenge, completing his first marathon in five hours and ten minutes by combining running and walking. His doctor had expressed doubts about the durability of Newton’s knee, citing wear and tear that might not withstand such a long distance, but Newton was undeterred.

Since then, Newton has completed 31 marathons, including 21 London Marathons, and even adapted to restrictions during the COVID-19 lockdown by running laps around his garden—circling the 110-yard stretch 461 times to meet his distance goals. His personal best time for the London Marathon, recorded at age 70, is an impressive three hours, 52 minutes, and 30 seconds. More recently, he completed the Morecambe Marathon in just under six hours, securing a “Good For Age” qualifying time for runners over 85.

Newton’s family provides robust support, with around 20 members expected to attend the London Marathon this year. His wife, Phyllis, 85, offers encouragement mixed with good-natured skepticism about his passion, describing him as “daft” but supportive nonetheless. This year, Newton is afforded special treatment in the VIP area, allowing him to start on his own schedule with access to private facilities.

Julia Paternain, a world championship bronze medallist competing in the same race, expressed admiration for Newton’s achievements. “The fact that he’s running a marathon at 88 is just so inspiring,” she said. “And it’s really cool that I’ll be in the same company as him.”

Despite acknowledging the inevitable slowing that comes with age, Newton is determined to continue running for as long as he is physically able. He advises older runners to seek professional physiotherapy and incorporate strengthening exercises to maintain injury-free training. Reflecting on his experience, Newton said the key is pacing oneself and persevering through minor discomforts, noting that a brief jog often eases any knee pain.

Newton’s story challenges common perceptions of athleticism and age, demonstrating that dedication and resilience can extend the possibilities for runners well into their later years.