Garvagh runner completes 1,262 miles in 2025 to support Air Ambulance NI

A dedicated runner from Garvagh has completed an extraordinary 1,262 miles in 2025, the equivalent of running the length of Ireland four times, and dedicated support to Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, raising an incredible £10,426.

To reach this remarkable total, Jim Bradley set himself a series of ambitious personal challenges, including completing 25 half-marathons throughout the year to raise funds for Air Ambulance NI.

His 25th and final half-marathon fittingly took place on Christmas Day in Garvagh Forest, where he joined the local Parkrun for the last three miles, marking a memorable finish to a remarkable year of endurance.

One of Jim’s toughest undertakings was a 120‑mile challenge for the month of June, which he far exceeded by running 6.1 miles every day up to his birthday on 27 June.  He then had a birthday fundraiser, helping to reach his incredible fundraising total.

Jim is a proud member of Springwell Running Club, having begun his running journey with the Dublin Marathon in 2018. Reflecting on that experience.

He said: “My first run was the Dublin Marathon in 2018. I didn’t enjoy the first run— the last 6 miles were a nightmare. I said, ‘never again’, but a month later I signed up for 2019. There was a group of us, and we all struggled to walk up the stairs of the house we had rented after the run. The next year we were wiser and rented a bungalow! From 2018 to 2023 I did 53 full marathons!”

Speaking about his motivation to support Air Ambulance NI, Jim added: “It’s been great to support Air Ambulance as you can see exactly where the funds are being used. I’ve seen the helicopter flying overhead and visited the airbase to meet with the charity and aircrew. It was wonderful learning about how it works, and I would encourage everyone to get involved in running and helping Air Ambulance. They have a 5k run coming up at City of Derry Airport on 25th April, which is a great starter run in a unique location.”

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In addition to his achievements in 2025, Jim has raised funds for several charities over the years, including Marie Curie and Guide Dogs, and has run an impressive 9,000 miles since he began running in 2018.

Never one to shy away from a challenge, Jim has already set his next goal.

“I’ve now set myself a challenge of 26 half‑marathons for 2026—and of course, the last of these will be on 26th December 2026,” he said.

Air Ambulance NI relies on community support to raise the £3m needed to help fund its lifesaving Helicopter Emergency Medical Service, provided in partnership with NIAS, which responds to critical incidents across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising for the charity said: "Jim is inspirational in the challenges he sets himself and all he has achieved for Air Ambulance NI. The total raised of £10,426 will keep the helicopter flying to the next three patients, anywhere in NI. We would like to thank Jim and all who donated and supported him throughout his incredible year of support.”

The City of Derry 5k Runway Run in aid of Air Ambulance NI and sponsored by H&A Group takes place on Saturday, April 25 at 8pm and is a unique opportunity to run or walk 5k of the runway.  The charity seeks registrations now for £25 with a commitment to further fundraise or donate a minimum of £100, all of which will help keep the helicopter flying and saving lives. 

Sign up here