Optometrist’s inspiring marathon - running for a friend

Optometrist Dr Ian Beasley is running for a cause close to his heart. Raising money for the Samaritans in memory of his close friend Phil Dale, who died by suicide last year. 

‘We’d known each other since secondary school, for nearly 40 years. He was the best man at my wedding. He left a gaping hole in our lives on 9 February 2024,’ says Ian, clinical editor of Optometry Today (OT) and head of education for the AOP.

‘He certainly packed a lot into his half-century and was adored by everyone who met him. He was an absolute one-off, the life and soul of the party.’

Ian explains that his friend – known as Noggins - was brilliant at everything without even trying. ‘He rocked up late to run Coventry Half Marathon after a night out – without any proper training. He finished it in 89 minutes.’

The Custard Corner Marathon

Inspired by a quirky local landmark in Kenilworth, Ian decided to create the Custard Corner Marathon which he will run on Saturday 21 June 2025 in honour of Noggins.

‘Custard Corner is a tiny rectangle of yellow-painted tarmac in Kenilworth, Warwickshire, which I'll be running around for five, six, seven, hours until I reach the 26.2-mile distance.

‘I’m running it for the Samaritans because they are an incredible organisation that save people’s lives.’

This unique marathon has gone on to capture the imagination of the local community, with support pouring in from various sources.

Community support and fundraising

The Custard Corner Marathon has garnered significant local support. Businesses are stepping up to donate supplies. ‘Local radio is doing a piece about it, with the local newspaper also writing about it. The response has been incredible. It has really caught people’s imagination.

Ian explains that Jeremy Clarkson’s brewery, Hawkstone, is even buying him a pint once he completes the marathon and giving him some merch. Companies like Oatly, who make plant-based custard, are donating products, and Waitrose is providing loads of custard creams for the run.

Running group friends supporting him

Ian's running group friends are also pitching in. Each runner from his club is going to run a mile with him and support him.

‘I've got runners from my club each going to run a mile with me and support me, so Waitrose have given me a bunch of custard creams to give to each runner.’

Town Crier and entertainment

‘We've got buskers lined up and the town crier is coming to shout out mile markers. A local bar is donating 10% of their take, showing how the whole community is rallying behind this cause.

Mental health awareness and support for optometrists

Ian's story is not just about running; it's about raising awareness around mental health.

‘Running was my saviour. I struggled through Covid,’ he explains. ‘You go for a run and feel amazing after that. I think you're getting exposure to daylight. You're getting a heart rate up. It's good for your physical health.

'I've met some amazing people through running who will be lifelong friends.

‘I even have a Parkrun tattoo on my arm as a symbol of my transformation.’

For optometrists finding things tough, he adds: ‘The AOP peer support line is also designed for the sector, for people that are struggling with any sorts of problems, There's someone there to listen.

Donate now to Ian’s unique charity challenge: https://www.justgiving.com/page/custardcornermarathon

Useful links: AOP Peer Support Line - helpline for optical professionals. Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen