Martin Takes on the Great North Run – in a Gorilla Suit!
Date: 4th September 2025
Meet the lovely Martin Broadbent! This year, Martin is taking on the world-famous Great North Run in aid of Headway Kent – and if running 13.1 miles wasn’t tough enough, he’s chosen to complete the challenge in full gorilla fancy dress.
The Great North Run is the UK’s biggest half marathon, attracting around 60,000 runners each year on a route from Newcastle to South Shields. The atmosphere is legendary, with thousands of spectators lining the streets and millions watching on TV. For Martin, it’s not just about the personal challenge – it’s about raising vital funds and awareness for people living with acquired brain injury (ABI) across Kent.
Why Martin is running 🧡
As Martin shares on his fundraising page:
“Firstly thank you for visiting my page! As some of you may be aware, I have had someone very close experience a catastrophic brain injury. Although on the mend they have a long way to go.
With that in mind I will be running the GNR this year dressed as a gorilla (you’d have to be Bananas to do this) and would appreciate any sponsorship that you could give.”
Martin knows first-hand how devastating a brain injury can be. It can challenge every aspect of life – walking, talking, thinking, and feeling – and the losses can be severe and permanent. A brain injury can mean losing both the life you once lived and the person you once were.
Every 90 seconds, someone in the UK is admitted to hospital with an acquired brain injury – that’s around 350,000 people every year. It can happen to anyone, at any time.
Running for Headway 🏃♂️
Martin has chosen to support Headway because of the difference the charity makes every day. Headway provides:
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A freephone helpline (0808 800 2244) and email advice service.
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A wide range of information and publications to help people understand brain injury.
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An Emergency Fund to support families in crisis.
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A recognised Brain Injury Identity Card, making everyday life a little easier and safer.
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Access to local Headway groups and services – including here at Headway Kent.
Why running is good for your brain 🧠
While Martin will be tackling the challenge in his gorilla suit, science is on his side! Running has been shown to:
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Boost blood flow to the brain, improving concentration and memory.
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Release feel-good hormones like endorphins and serotonin.
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Reduce stress and support long-term brain health.
Fun gorilla facts 🦍
Since Martin is bravely donning a gorilla suit, we couldn’t resist a few light-hearted facts:
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Gorillas can sprint up to 25mph – let’s hope Martin saves that speed for the finishing line!
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They are mostly gentle giants, spending much of their day eating fruit and leaves.
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A group of gorillas is called a “band” or a “troop” – and Martin will be part of an even bigger troop of 60,000 runners this September.
Why this matters ❤️
For brain injury survivors and their families, fundraising efforts like Martin’s mean everything. Headway Kent is a charity, and without incredible people like him, we simply couldn’t keep our doors open. Every mile he runs helps us to provide rehabilitation, emotional support, and a safe community for people rebuilding their lives after brain injury.
From all of us at Headway Kent: thank you, Martin – and best of luck on race day!