From Colleagues to Teammates, Friends Run London Marathon for the Invictus Games Foundation

Maria Ribeiro and Molly Phillips met through work at the Invictus Games Foundation and together they will take on the London Marathon this April, running together to raise funds and awareness for the Foundation’s work.

The pair met in summer 2025 when Molly joined as an intern at the Foundation, quickly forming a close friendship that has carried through into their marathon journey. What began as shared time in the office has become a shared challenge, as they prepare to take on one of the world’s most iconic races side by side.

“We wanted to run the London Marathon together as a way of raising funds and awareness for the Foundation, so that we can continue to support those who have given so much in the service of their country,” Maria and Molly said.

Having both worked within the Foundation, Maria and Molly have seen first hand the impact of our work supporting wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans. From the Invictus Games to activities delivered Beyond the Games, they have witnessed how sport can support recovery, rebuild confidence, and create a sense of community.

“Having worked at the Foundation, we’ve been lucky enough to see the power of sport to change lives and save lives,” they said.

Neither Maria or Molly have ran a marathon before but they're enjoying the challenge together.

“I am absolutely terrified to say that I will be running the London Marathon 2026, but incredibly honoured that I will be doing it to raise money for the Invictus Games Foundation,” Molly said.

“I’m incredibly proud, and only slightly alarmed, to be doing this for my wonderful team at the Foundation,” Maria added.

They come into the challenge from different points in their running journeys, but have committed fully to their preparation, balancing training alongside work, travel, and daily life.

A typical week includes multiple runs and strength sessions, following structured plans through the Coopah app.

Training together has become a key part of their experience, whether running side by side, supporting each other through long sessions, or staying connected during training runs across different cities.

“Being able to train together has been amazing and such a boost. We’ve been able to support each other when things get tough,” they said.

Running the London Marathon is a significant moment for both, described as a once in a lifetime experience and an opportunity to represent a cause they care deeply about.

“Running a marathon is a huge physical and mental challenge, but we’re proud to be doing it on behalf of our team,” they said.

Their motivation is also shaped by the wider Invictus Community, drawing inspiration from those who have taken on similar challenges as part of their recovery journeys.

“We are so inspired by all the wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans who have run before us, and we’ll think of them when things get tough,” they said.

Through their fundraising, Maria and Molly are supporting the continued work of the Invictus Games Foundation, helping ensure more opportunities are available for those on their recovery journey.

They are both fundraising ahead of race day, you can support Maria and Molly here.

“Thank you so much for donating and supporting the continuation of the Foundation’s work,” Molly said.

“Every donation will go towards supporting the work of the Invictus Games Foundation,” Maria added.

Maria will receive a boost of support from Veterans’ Corner at Mile 23 of the London Marathon, led by the Invictus Games Foundation, where military charities, veterans, and supporters will come together to recognise service, celebrate recovery, and provide a powerful moment of encouragement as runners approach the final stretch.