Islander to Take on 50-Mile Run for Charity’s Anniversary

Islander to Run 50 Miles in Tribute to Local Charity’s 50 Years

An islander is preparing to lace up for a remarkable 50-mile challenge in celebration of a local charity’s golden milestone.

Les Amis, which has been supporting islanders with learning disabilities for the past half-century, marked its 50th anniversary in July. To honour the occasion, facilities manager Alex Black has pledged to run 50 miles as part of his “Miles 4 Smiles” challenge.

His effort will begin on 5 October with the Jersey Marathon. But unlike other runners, Black won’t be stopping at the finish line. Instead, he will continue past the course to visit every Les Amis residential home, before concluding his journey at FB Fields.

Black won’t be alone on the day — colleagues and service users from Les Amis are set to join him at stages along the route.

“I see the difference we make every day, and I wanted to do more,” he said. “That’s why I’m running 50 miles — to push my limits. Les Amis isn’t just a charity, it’s a family. It’s about giving people the chance to live with independence, purpose and joy.”

Reflecting on the charity’s five decades, Black described Les Amis’ journey as “far more turbulent than the terrain on the 50-mile course,” praising the dedication of the community that helped embed its values of inclusion and empowerment.

“Completing 50 miles is, by comparison, only a small gesture,” he added. “But I hope it inspires others and helps raise funds so that Les Amis can continue its work for the next 50 years and beyond.”