No More Knives: Meet Laura, she’s taking on a mammoth challenge to mark what would have been her brother’s 40th birthday

More than 50 runners are to take part in the Rock N Roll Marathon 2019 in Memory of Colin McGinty.

Colin McGinty, from Liverpool, was brutally stabbed to death in 2001 in a senseless and shocking attack that police put down to a case of mistaken identity. Now, after 17 years without her beloved brother, Colin’s sister, Laura Hughes and a team of more than 50 runners will complete the Rock & Roll half Marathon in his memory and to mark his 40th birthday.

LISTEN: Leanne Campbell speaks to Laura McGinty on her podcast ‘Ladies of Liverpool’

Liverpool is plagued with knife crime as reports of stabbing incidents reach a ten year high. The city is still reeling from the murder of Sam Cook, who was stabbed in a bar while out celebrating his 21st birthday with friends, just over a year ago. Supporting the city-wide #NoMoreKnives Campaign, mum-of-two Laura has gained wide-spread support as she marks her brother’s 40th birthday in a truly memorable way.

Laura said: “We are doing this to honour our brother on what should be a special birthday. Unfortunately Colin can’t be here to celebrate with his family and friends but we couldn’t let this occasion go by without doing something.

“My family and I wanted to do something positive, something that brought everyone together and something that lots of people could get involved with.

Never having attempted a 5k, never mind a half marathon, Laura has begun her training and created a community all of its own, as offers of help and support have poured in. On 11th November, the team of runners will meet for the first time.

Donning their specially designed t shirts, megaphones and more determination that you can shake a stick at, they will complete a 5k course around the streets of Formby and the team needs your support.

Laura explained: “It would be amazing if we could have as many people supporting us on our training run by simply being there and cheering us on. If this isn’t possible but people still want to get involved then they can donate via our JustGiving page . All proceeds are going straight to Cash for Kids and under privileged/disadvantaged children within the Liverpool region will benefit.

Starting at ACE Academy, Redgate, Formby and will set off around 11am. Heading towards the Formby Bypass via Cross Green and Watchyward Lane finishing back at ACE Academy.

There’s just enough time to rest their legs before Laura and the “In Memory of Colin McGinty” team pull on their red suits and fluffy beards to take part in the 15th annual Santa Dash on December 2nd.

Laura’s positivity is infectious. Determined to make a change in the city that she loves and to prevent other families from having to endure the pain of losing a loved one, it’s not surprising to see the numbers of supporters rise as the Rock N Roll Marathon series draws near.

Laura and husband Terry completed the Scouse 5k as part of their training

Laura said: “For the first time in 17 years I feel like I am in the right place and at the right time (11:11), I am really looking forward to taking part in the Rock & Roll half marathon.

The “In memory of Colin McGinty” team inspire me on a daily basis, we have got runners that never met Colin BUT have still gotten involved. We have a Whatsapp group and everyday people are posting their training activity and generally supporting every single team member especially the ones who are just starting out.

“I am sure that my brother will be watching us and will be proud of every single one of us for what we are doing.”

Rock n Roll Marathon

Taking place on 25th-26th May 2019, the annual Rock N Roll Marathon series takes over the city’s waterfront. Runners can take part in a full or half marathon, 5k or 1 mile race as well as soak up the amazing atmosphere at the runners expo at Exhibition Centre Liverpool. Participants achieve amazing feats of personal and physical strength during this event and we can’t wait to welcome Laura and her ever expanding team of runners across the finish line.

If you would like to join Laura and take part in the Rock N Roll Marathon series, head to the official In Memory of Colin McGinty Facebook, Instagram or Twitter pages for more info. 

To add your support to the No More Knives Campaign, go to the official Facebook page here