Rotherham United were delighted to welcome marathon runner Ray Matthews to AESSEAL New York Stadium for last night’s game with Nottingham Forest.
Ray has recently finished the unbelievable feat of completing 75 marathons in 75 days to coincide with his 75th birthday – a quite remarkable achievement.
The club were delighted to welcome Ray to the game with Forest, and organised a special presentation to honour his fundraising efforts.
Ray is raising funds for Newman School in Whiston – a specialist school for children with disabilities.
“It has been tough at times to do 75 marathons in 75 days, but I've done what I said I'd do,” Ray said of his experience.
“It's been tough at times, but generally better than I had expected.
“I've had so many great people I've never met before who've given me fantastic comments and money as well. I've really enjoyed it.”
His goal is to raise £75,000 to completely rubber coat the entire playground areas at the school, and donations are still flooding in.
Ray is a prolific runner and over the past couple of years he has been able to successfully complete a 100km race across the Sahara Desert, and more recently taken on a very demanding 100 mile run around the circumference of Rotherham.
The Millers have been involved previously with Ray’s fundraising efforts with former player Frazer Richardson attending events to help garner support for Ray’s cause.
Rotherham United’s Head of Community, Jamie Noble added:
“On behalf of everyone I think we all have to say a massive well done to Ray for completing this mammoth journey.
“When we heard that Ray was getting closer to completing his challenge we wanted to show our appreciation for his fundraising efforts, so I was honoured to have Ray as our guest for the game with Nottingham Forest.
“He has raised some vital funds for a very worthy cause, and also shown everyone just what can be done with effort, dedication and determination. He is an inspiration to us all.”