This is the final blog in our series introducing the incredible runners taking on the Hanley Economic Potters ’Arf Marathon on Sunday 28th September 2025 in support of The Hubb Foundation.
First in the series, we introduced Rebus Training team who have set themselves the bold target of clocking up a combined 500 miles. Next, we met Hettie, who has stepped well outside her comfort zone and will take on her first ever half marathon.
And last but by no means least, we meet Grace Baker – a PhD student who has seen firsthand, through her research and her work with The Hubb Foundation, the huge difference the charity makes for children and families across Stoke-on-Trent.
We have asked Grace the same questions we put to the team at Rebus Training and Hettie – because every story adds another piece to the community spirit behind the Potters ’Arf.
Q: What does taking part in the Potters ’Arf Marathon mean to you, and why have you chosen to support The Hubb Foundation? Have you run this or other Half Marathons before?
Grace
“This is the first half marathon I have ever participated in. During the COVID 19 pandemic, I fell in love with running and have continued ever since. I began my PhD in 2023, working alongside The Hubb Foundation to explore the impact of the programme on children from lower socio-economic backgrounds. Over the past two years, I have seen firsthand the amazing work they do for children and their families.
I’ve interviewed teachers from various schools, analysed data, and listened to parents and children describe the difference The Hubb makes, from providing food and fun activities during the holidays, to giving families a sense of belonging. That’s why I chose to support The Hubb Foundation. Running my first ’Arf feels like a small way I can give something back.”
Q: How are you preparing for the big day – any training tips, local running routes, or motivational playlists you’d like to share?
Grace
“This time last year, the furthest I could run was 10km. I’m now running 2 to 3 times a week, gradually increasing my distance. Attending parkrun every week helps to build my speed and makes the run that bit more fun. Running with others is far more motivating than running alone!
To prevent injury, I’m also adding strength training and stretching into my weekly routine.”
Q: Heartbreak Hill is famous among runners for this marathon – how do you plan to tackle this challenge, or what are your thoughts about it?
Grace
“Heartbreak Hill scares me, but I’m ready to give it a go. I try to run up it once a week to get myself used to it, and maybe one day it will feel a little easier. Living in Stoke means it’s impossible to go for a run without hitting a hill, so my legs are slowly getting used to the challenge.”
Q: Can you tell us about your fundraising journey – how are you raising awareness and encouraging donations for The Hubb Foundation?
Grace
“I hope to raise as much as I can for The Hubb Foundation. I’ve been updating Facebook and Instagram with my training progress, which has helped spread the word.
As part of Staffordshire University and the Centre of Health and Development (CHAD), I’m also hoping to encourage donations through the research team and the wider university community. Alongside this, I’m part of several communities, such as my local church, who are kindly sharing my fundraising page in their newsletters. Every share and every donation brings me closer to my goal.”
Why Grace has chosen to run for The Hubb
Grace’s story is a reminder of why this challenge matters. School holidays can be tough for many families, with increased costs and reduced incomes creating a “holiday experience gap” for disadvantaged children. Without support, they are more likely to face unhealthy breaks in terms of nutrition, physical activity, and social opportunities, and return to school at a disadvantage.
Through free meals, fun activities, and safe spaces, The Hubb Foundation is closing that gap and thanks to runners like Grace, Hettie and Team Rebus, we can continue to reach even more children and families.
In Grace’s Words
“All children should have the opportunity to experience a happy and healthy school holiday. That’s what drives me – both in my research and now in my running.”
Grace is ready to give it her all on race day, and we’ll be cheering her on every step of the way as she takes on her first half marathon.
Thank you for joining us on our three part runner series, from the Rebus Training team’s 500 mile mission to Hettie’s first fundraising half marathon, and now Grace’s PhD inspired challenge. Every mile truly matters, and together they’re helping raise vital funds to support children and families across Stoke-on-Trent.”
