Olivia Miles

Cardiff Half 2026

In October 2026, I’ll be standing at the start line of the Cardiff Half Marathon, something that, a year ago, I never imagined I’d be doing. I have secured a charity spot for the race and I will be running for the Stroke Association, a charity that’s incredibly close to my heart. 

At the end of last year, my mum had a small stroke. Thankfully, she’s been able to recover, but it was a frightening and emotional time for all of us. This cause also connects to an earlier chapter of my life. My Bampy passed away from a stroke in 2015, and that loss has always stayed with me. 

Running for the Stroke Association feels like a way to honour him, and to do something positive in memory of him, while supporting others going through similar experiences.

Over the past year, running has become a big part of my life. It started as a way to get fitter for my upcoming wedding, to clear my head, and to push myself a little more. Somewhere along the way, it became something deeper, a space for reflection, resilience, and gratitude.

Running is not easy, and the training definitely won’t be over the next year, there will be early mornings, sore legs, and plenty of moments where I question why I’m doing it. But then I’ll remember my reasons. I’ll remember my mum’s strength, my Bampy’s memory, and the thousands of families who benefit from the Stroke Association’s incredible work.

Every mile will mean something.

I’ll be sharing my training journey and fundraising updates as I go, and if you’d like to support me or donate to the cause, it would mean the world.

Here’s to running with purpose, pushing limits, and making a difference. 💜