Beyond the pursuit of time or performance, Rhys Simmonds will compete in the elite field of the Cardiff Half Marathon this October, running in memory of his best friend George Franks-Herbert and raising money for our charity.

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On Sunday 4th October, 2026, I will be lining up in the Elite Field at the Cardiff Half-Marathon, representing Cardiff AC, in what will be my first ever elite start line.

Standing on the elite start line of any race is something I have worked hard towards for the past eight years of my competitive running journey, and being able to do it in Cardiff, in my home stomping ground, in one of the biggest races in Wales, means a huge amount to me.

But I’m aware there is more to life than simply running.

As well as racing the elite field, this year I will be raising money for the Marfan Trust, in memory of one of my best mates, George Franks-Herbet, who sadly passed away four years ago at just 18 years of age from an aortic dissection.

I’m aware it is uncommon for elite athletes to raise money for charity and run for something other than a time or performance, but this just feels right.

George and I became good mates during our time in secondary school together. He was one of those people you never really forget; always said exactly what he thought, told you straight, had an incredibly dry sense of humour, and he was tall so he always stood out! He was genuinely a brilliant mate you could always rely on, and losing him so suddenly and at such a young age is something that will stay with me forever.

He never had the opportunity to fully experience life to the fullest.

George was studying at Bristol University with ambitions of going into the medical field, following in his father's footsteps. He passed away suddenly one night while out in Bristol celebrating the end of his first set of exams at university.


The Marfan Trust supports people and families affected by Marfan syndrome, and while I can't change what happened to George, raising money for them feels like a small way of helping support the work they do and the families who continue to live with the condition.

For me, this race is going to be about two things: chasing the best performance I can, whilst also carrying George with me and raising money in his memory.

I'd be incredibly grateful for anything you can contribute. Even if it’s simply sharing this page.

Four years on, I still miss you mate. This one’s for you, George.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for supporting the Marfan Trust.

George, remembered by his parents