Yahoo News 'Captain Tobias' completes second marathon alongside Jessica Ennis-Hill
Nine-year-old Tobias Weller has completed his second marathon in his hometown of Sheffield. Weller, who has cerebral palsy and autism, was joined by Olympic Gold medalist Jessica Ennis-Hill on Saturday for the last stage of his 26.2 mile journey.
Having already walked a marathon over the course of 70 days, he embarked on his next challenge on June 14 to run the same distance. With the support of a race runner, he completed his second marathon in 49 days.
Another Monday and another ‘few bits’ to start your week on a high! First up..bravo this young man and his wonderful mum! Massive well done @CaptainTobias9 and big shout to his special guest and fellow runner @J_Ennis You both made everyone’s day! Teamwork, Passion+ Persistence! pic.twitter.com/QCm1d9o9jH
— Jill White (@JilltyWhite) August 3, 2020
His monumental achievements have raised over £147,000 for two causes close to Weller’s heart – the Sheffield Children’s Hospital and Paces School, the special school he attends.
'It feels amazing to have completed both marathons,' said Weller. 'I feel fantastic.'
Weller’s final stretch to the finish line was supported by friends and family – all wearing t-shirts captioned with the young marathoner’s catchphrase, 'Chuffed to bits'.
'Thank you for clapping and cheering me every step of the way. You are all awesome,' Weller said.
On Wednesday, Ennis accepted Weller’s invitation on Twitter to race with him on Saturday.
Definitely 💪🏼Give me a time and place and I’ll be there Tobias! https://t.co/PNIVtoBc0h
— Dame Jess Ennis-Hill (@J_Ennis) July 30, 2020
'Just to see what he’s achieved is so inspirational,' the fellow Sheffielder said.
Both Weller and his family were delighted by Ennis’s participation.
'Massive thanks to Jess for coming today. It’s meant the world to Tobias for Jess to be here,' Ms Garbutt, Weller’s mother, said. 'To run against an Olympic champion is pretty awesome.'
Weller’s accomplishments have drawn widespread praise both locally and beyond.
Last month, Boris Johnson recognised him as a ‘Point of Light’, an award for volunteers making a positive impact on their community. Weller also earned the title, ‘Captain Tobias’, after his inspiration Captain Sir Tom Moore sent him a message of congratulations for his fundraising success.
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