Running for Abi: A 26-mile tribute supporting young lives through snowsports

A marathon in memory, and a mission for the future

On 2 November 2025, Selena will be running the New York Marathon – not just for the challenge, but for a cause deeply rooted in love, memory and purpose.

Twenty years ago, in 2005, Selena ran her first marathon in New York alongside her best friend, Abi. It was a milestone moment for them both – full of grit, laughter and determination. Abi joked afterwards that she’d never run again… but life had other plans.

After moving to Fernie, Canada, Abi met Mike, later her husband, and together they became a powerful force in the running world. She held multiple course records in ultra-marathons, founded a community running company, Stag Leap Running, and built an inspiring life rooted in movement, challenge and connection.

Sadly, Abi was killed in a road accident in July 2024. Now, 20 years after that first unforgettable marathon, Selena is returning to the streets of New York – this time in Abi’s memory, and to raise funds for Snow Camp.

Honouring a life spent in the mountains

Abi and Selena’s friendship began with a shared love of the mountains – even as they lived thousands of miles away, snowsports remained their constant love. Abi grew up skiing and racing in the Highlands of Scotland, while Selena trained on the dry slopes of England. Their lives crossed on snowy peaks in France, through university race circuits, and a season together in Tignes. Even as their paths diverged, snow sports remained their constant.

Abi’s deep belief in the power of sport – especially inclusive, accessible sport – is what makes Snow Camp such a meaningful cause for this tribute.

‘As motivation for the training, and for the 26 miles around New York, I wanted to find a cause that felt right for Abi (whose legacy is motivating people to get moving, get outside, and set themselves a personal challenge), and right for our friendship (we met skiing, and have amazing shared memories of our time in mountains…and the dry slopes!). Snow Camp was the perfect answer! 

If my marathon challenge, and Abi’s legacy, can give any young person, who might not ordinarily have the chance, the opportunity to experience the joy of the mountains and snowsports, that’s a win.’ – Selina

We couldn’t have said it better.

Why Snow Camp?

A group of Snow Camp young people directly impaged by people fundraising for snow camp

At Snow Camp, we believe every young person deserves the chance to experience the transformational power of the mountains – regardless of background or life circumstances.

Since 2003, Snow Camp has worked with over 1,000 underprivileged young people each year across the UK. Our unique programme journey uses skiing and snowboarding as a foundation, combined with:

  • Life skills development focused on confidence, teamwork and mental health
  • Qualifications including BASI and First Aid certifications
  • Work experience and volunteering, with career mentoring from industry professionals
  • A focus on long-term, positive destinations within and beyond the snowsports industry

We’re not just creating skiers and snowboarders. We’re helping young people discover their potential, their voice, and their future.

Running with purpose – and power

For Selena, this marathon isn’t just about running 26.2 miles. It’s about carrying Abi’s legacy forward and giving young people across the UK the chance to experience what the two of them loved so deeply: the mountains, the challenge, and the sense of energy that comes with snowsports.

This kind of personal tribute is powerful – and for us at Snow Camp, it’s a true honour to be part of it. We’re always incredibly moved when supporters choose to turn their passion, memories or milestones into a way to give back. It reminds us how connected our community is, and how sport can bring people together in the most meaningful ways.

If you’re reading this and wondering how you can support our mission, personal fundraising is one of the most impactful ways to get involved. Whether it’s a run, a ski challenge, a team event or something totally unique, your effort can help change the life of a young person who’s never had the chance to experience the mountains before.

You don’t have to be an athlete or an expert – just someone who cares. We’d love to support you in turning your idea into action.

Find out more about how to get involved with fundraising or partner with Snow Camp to make a lasting difference.

A moment to reflect – and act

Selena’s marathon is a story of grief, grit and giving back. It reminds us how powerful sport can be – not just for physical wellbeing, but for healing, connection and change.

If Abi were here today, we believe she’d be the loudest voice cheering from the sidelines. And we think she’d be proud to see her legacy encouraging more young people to find their place in the mountains.

We’re incredibly grateful to Selena for choosing to support Snow Camp. If you’d like to support her journey, you can:

  • Donate to her JustGiving page
  • Share her story on social media or with friends and family
  • Send a message of support as she trains for the big day!

Every donation directly supports our work with young people, providing essential access to life-changing opportunities through snowsports.

You can also learn more about our impact, read more stories on our blog, or explore career opportunities if you’re interested in working directly with our amazing young people.