Meet the schoolteacher who is lacing up his running shoes every day in January for charity
A Ballymoney schoolteacher is putting his best foot forward to raise funds for charity as he kick starts 2026 by running 155km this month.
David Hodges, who teaches at Dalriada School in the town, is running 5k every day during January as he takes to the roads all for a worthy cause.
The keen rugby player admits the challenge has been tougher than what he initially expected and he also explained how Aware NI, who are set to be beneficiaries of his running exploits, can help those suffering from mental health issues.
He said: "I wanted to raise awareness at this time of year for mental health, but specifically for men's mental health.
"People sometimes don’t realise that the biggest killer in men under 50 is suicide.
"Coming from a farming background, I can see first-hand the challenges that being alone can bring to mental health.
"To their credit, Aware NI does a great job across the province in trying to promote people looking after themselves.
"It's definitely been tougher than I thought. Finding the time to run every day is much more difficult than I first imagined.
"Once I get started into the 5k run, it's not too bad, plus I'm fortunate to have had lots of volunteers who have run some of it with me so far.
"I've completed a few half marathons but I mainly stay fit by playing sport.”
Whilst funds can be low during January after the expenditure of Christmas, David has been taken aback with the money he has raised so far.
"I set a target of raising £1000 but I've passed that already," he added.
"This is my first fundraising challenge of this kind...I did a few things with the Young Farmers like a 24-hour cycle and a bed push, but this is my first individually.
"I've been blown away by the generosity of people, especially in the month of January.
"I would love to reach £2000 but we will see how that goes with the remaining time left."
Despite the prospect of sore legs and feet – there is one thing David would like to see changing.
"The weather has nearly been the worst bit.
"The first week I was running in snow and ice...maybe the next time I should do it in June.”
Members of the public can donate to David’s worthy cause HERE.