Ore Oduba Shares Emotional Motivation for Running London Marathon
Ore Oduba says his emotional motivation for running the London Marathon comes from the death of his sister. The 40-year-old broadcaster trained for months for the 26.2-mile challenge.
A personal tribute
Lola, his sister, died by suicide last April. Oduba is running the race in her memory.
She had found a love of running during lockdown. An envelope she left for his children helped convince him to take on the marathon.
Training and challenges
He overhauled his lifestyle and followed a gruelling training programme. The preparation brought exhaustion, illness and injury.
Oduba ran the Hampton Court half-marathon on a date linked to Mother’s Day. The number 123 appeared on his watch, a small, poignant sign for him.
He has covered the event for the BBC in the past. This year he will experience it as a competitor.
Charity and campaign
He is raising money for Smartphone Free Childhood. The charity campaigns to delay smartphone access and reduce children’s exposure to harmful content.
Oduba has spoken publicly about a past porn addiction. That experience underpins his determination to warn parents and protect young people from online harms.
Race day outlook
He says he will prioritise finishing over a target time. Family will be waiting at the finish line to support him.
Oduba does not plan to make marathon running a regular pursuit. He describes this effort as a unique, deeply personal undertaking.
Filmogaz.com will follow his progress at the TCS London Marathon on April 26, 2025.
