2026-05-22T08:54:36+00:00

Marathon man Alex following in footsteps in memory of runner grandma

Alex Robb is running the Edinburgh Marathon as a tribute to his beloved grandmother Eileen.

The 33-year-old hopes to complete it the day before what would have been her 80th birthday, in honour of “an incredible woman”.

Alex’s grandmother Eileen Forbes was a prolific amateur runner who finished first in the women’s category at the Moray Marathon in 1983 and was a guide runner at the London Marathon on multiple occasions.

“She will always be an inspiration to me,” said Alex. “I'm hoping I can channel some of her dedication to get me through my first ever marathon.

“My grandma was an incredible woman who had unbounded time for everyone and dedicated so much of her life to nursing, community groups, sports clubs and the support of vulnerable adults with disabilities.”

Alex, who is originally from Aberdeen but currently lives in Glasgow, says the marathon will be a challenge he is both nervous and excited about.

“I've been training for a few months now, I've listened to so many podcasts and playlists on my solo long runs.

“It's a privilege to raise funds for Friends of Roxburghe House in Aberdeen, who my family are grateful for the care and dignity that they offered to my grandma at the end of her life when she sadly passed away in 2020.”

Alex has already smashed his fundraising target, raising more than £900. If you’d like to add to his total, you can find out how here.

>> The picture shows Alex with his grandmother Eileen

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