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Joe Murphy is running the London Marathon 2026
Joe, a key player in our 1st XV, is taking part in the London Marathon, honouring the memory of his grandad - he would like your help
Joe Murphy is running the London Marathon 2026, he has been an integral part of the Barnes 1st XV for the last few years and if you would like to support him I know he would very much appreciate it for the memory of his grandfather and also to give him no excuses but to get back into training for next season in July!
Here is the link to donate: Supporting Joe Murphy
This is Joe’s message:
“I am running in memory of my Grandfather (Brian Robinson), who was tragically killed in a Motor Accident by a Drug Driver in March 2025. After fighting for his life in hospital, he sadly couldn’t recover, having both asthma and COPD (a condition that permanently narrows the airways and damages the lungs)
“The charity I am supporting is Asthma + Lung UK, raising awareness and funds to help people living with lung conditions. My Grandad always loved a challenge and was a very keen mountaineer, climbing many large mountains such as Mont Blanc. This marathon is my way of following in his footsteps and turning grief into action and supporting a cause close to my heart.
My grandad loved watching me growing up, coming to most of my rugby games and sadly was due to come to his first Barnes game the week he passed. Rhino and the club were majorly supportive during this time and I am grateful to still be a part of.
In my absence, my brother is kindly playing in my spot in the second row as Jack Heald wouldn’t let me run the marathon other wise!
When I first started training it felt like a dream; no dodgy shoulders, 12kgs lighter, and the freedom to watch Barnes from the sidelines with a beer in hand. However, now that the mileage has crept up to around 45km a week it’s proving far tougher than I expected, even if the upside is that I’m yet to receive a red card for accidentally eye-gouging someone during a leisurely 5km lap of Battersea Park ( if you weren’t familiar with the Dorking game last year, speak to Rich Fenech!).
I’ve still got a fair few weeks to go before the big event , but I guess if Rory Kassapian can run a marathon in Bordeaux, then I don’t really have an excuse”.
Here is the link again: