Pictured right, Jono Conolly (Al. 2017–19) completed an extraordinary challenge with his brother Matt over the weekend. The duo ran five marathons in five days to raise funds and awareness for Spinal Research, the UK’s leading charity for spinal cord injury treatment and repair.
The idea was born after a close family friend, Teak, was paralysed in a motorbike accident. Jono said the brothers would be “thinking about our friend Teak when things get tough,” adding that “watching his strength, resilience, and determination has inspired us both.”
Originally from Zimbabwe, Jono arrived at Brighton College in 2017 on a cricket scholarship before going on to represent Zimbabwe in the Under-19 World Cup and later played for Durham University while completing a degree in Sports and Exercise Science.
The five-day challenge began on the Brighton seafront on 12 November, covering an extraordinary 131 miles, with stages in the Cotswolds, London and Gloucestershire before finishing yesterday at Painswick Cricket Club. “This isn’t just about running. It’s about hope, purpose and movement — every step for someone who can’t.” Jono explained.
At the start of the challenge Matt said that running five marathons back-to-back would be “brutal, both physically and mentally.” But, he said, “we’ll only be pushing ourselves for a few days while those living with spinal injuries face immense challenges every day of their lives.”
Spinal Research has praised the brothers’ efforts. Suzanne Redding, Head of Audience and Community, said: “We are blown away by what they are doing – five marathons in five days is a huge physical and mental challenge.” She added that emerging treatments are “truly changing lives” and that support like Matt and Jono’s helps bring breakthroughs “to paralysed people as quickly as possible.”
The brothers have already surpassed their £5,000 fundraising target, with supporters joining sections of the route and cheering them on across the country. They also plan to run the 2026 London Marathon for the charity next April.
To support their challenge, please visit their Justgiving fundraising page: