RFL’s Anthony Atherton takes on the London Marathon 2026 in support of Community Integrated Care

Anthony Atherton, Rugby Football League Coaching Development Officer, will take on the iconic London Marathon on Sunday 26 April 2026, raising vital funds for Community Integrated Care, the pioneering social care charity supporting hundreds of people across the country. 

Driven by his close connection to the charity’s work, Anthony’s marathon challenge is about far more than the 26.2 miles. Through his role at the RFL and witnessing first hand the impact of Community Integrated Care’s programmes via the Wigan Warriors Foundation, he has seen how the sport in partnership with the charity can transform lives, inspire communities and remove barriers. That experience has fuelled his determination to complete the race in support of the charity’s vital work. 

Earlier this year, Anthony joined Community Integrated Care’s Sports Inclusion Team Leader, Kurtis Marsh, to deliver the match ball ahead of the ‘Battle of the Borough’ fixture between Leigh Leopards and Wigan Warriors. The appearance marked a meaningful milestone in Anthony’s marathon preparation. The pair completed a 16 mile training route from the Brick Community Stadium to Leigh Sports Village and back via the Leigh stretch of the Leeds–Liverpool Canal. The run symbolically connected two communities supported by Community Integrated Care every day. 

As proud partners of the Rugby Football League and its club foundations, Community Integrated Care delivers innovative and inclusive programmes that break down barriers and change lives. The RFL is delighted to celebrate a decade of partnership with the charity in 2026, a collaboration that has already helped improve the lives of thousands across the sport and beyond. Read more here.

Recognised as Britain’s most innovative care charity, Community Integrated Care delivers over eight million hours of support each year, helping people to live their Best Life Possible. Supporters are encouraged to donate to Anthony’s challenge, with every penny raised ring fenced to fund life changing programmes that would otherwise go unfunded. 

The RFL’s Coaching Development Officer, Anthony Atherton said: 

“It’s an incredible honour to support Community Integrated Care and raise vital funds so they can continue delivering such impactful programmes for those who need it most. 

“The influence of these initiatives goes far beyond the rugby field. Completing this challenge feels like a full circle moment, giving something back and helping ensure the people they support can continue to live their best lives possible.” 

Jim Kane, Chief Executive Officer of Community Integrated Care, said: “We’re incredibly proud and grateful to the team taking on the London Marathon for Community Integrated Care this year. This represents so much more than a race – it’s a celebration of the passion, dedication and partnership that drives our charity forward every day.” 

He continued, “The funds raised will directly support programmes that change lives, promote inclusion and create new opportunities for people with support needs, across the UK. I’m inspired by each of our runners – their participation symbolises a powerful commitment to collaboration, inclusion and changing lives through shared purpose. We’ll be cheering them on every step of the way.”