A six-year-old mini marathoner donned her tiny running shoes again last week to reach the 13-mile mark alongside BBC Breakfast presenter Mike Bushell at MediaCity UK.
Inspired by her mother Sue, 40, who will run her third marathon in April, Holly has been completing her marathon a mile at a time.
Back in February she ran her third mile with Olympic gold medallist, Chris Boardman and last Friday the baton was passed on to the BBC Breakfast sports presenter.
Holly was hard to miss as she completed her mile dressed in her extra-small sized charity vest, which reached her knees, complete with bright pink leggings and leg warmers.
THIS ISN’T ONE DIRECTION! Holly listens to Mike’s running tunes
Cheered on by family members including elder brother Eddie, and Dad Paul, Holly made the six laps of the MediaCity UK piazza look like child’s play with experienced marathon runner Bushell admitting that he was struggling to keep up with the petite fundraiser.
Mike said: “I’m flabbergasted! I’ve never seen someone Holly’s age run this fast. I’m rather out of breath!”
When asked about the secret behind her speed, Holly revealed that it all lies in the power of breakfast, having downed a huge bowl of Coco Pops.
On finishing the mile, Mike told Holly that she might well be the next Paula Radcliffe, while her Mum gave her determined daughter a well-earned kiss.
Holly’s mum Sue said: “We’re very proud. I’m delighted that she’s joining in and wants to help this charity.”
Sue originally chose the charity, Children with Cancer UK, as she revealed how lucky she and her husband are to have two very healthy children.
THANKS! Holly presents Mike with a box of chocolates
Before Mike returned to work, Holly presented him with a box of chocolates as a thank you for supporting her fundraising efforts.
Holly will continue to go the extra mile for charity over the next month, with confirmed accompanying runners including ex-Coronation Street star and patron of several charities, Julie Hesmondhalgh (Hayley Cropper).
BBC Presenter Helen Skelton, who previously ran the 78-mile Namibian Ultra Marathon, will also run a mile with her along with Holly’s teacher Mrs Marshall who will complete the run dressed as a crayon.
RUN HOLLY RUN! Holly reaches out to mum Sue during the mile
She will complete her marathon next month by running beyond the finish line of the London Marathon with her mum near Buckingham Palace.
Before she completes her marathon, Holly told MM that she still hopes to run a mile with One Direction heartthrob Louis Tomlinson.
Holly has now managed to raise a staggering £3,000 and with another 13 miles she’s still set to raise even more with those little legs.
To donate, click here or visit Holly’s charity Facebook page.
Pictures courtesy of Paul McHugh, with thanks.
