Beyond the finish line: the inspiring journey of Josie Rice

When Lloyd Martin first walked through the doors of Prime Acrobatics a few years ago, neither he nor his future coach Josie Rice could have imagined the extraordinary journey that lay ahead. What began as gymnastics lessons has blossomed into a partnership that’s redefining what’s possible in sport, culminating in their remarkable achievement at the 2025 London Marathon—and now, with Josie preparing to take on the London Landmarks Half Marathon in 2026 for Down Syndrome UK.

A coach’s unwavering belief

Josie Rice lives by a simple but powerful motto: “No child or adult should face difficulties in accessing sport.” As both a gymnastics coach at Prime Acrobatics and a PE teacher at Farnham Heath End School, she has dedicated her career to creating inclusive environments where everyone, regardless of ability, feels welcome and empowered.

When Lloyd joined her gym, there was never a question of whether he belonged. Starting in young adult classes before moving to one-on-one sessions, Lloyd set his sights for the British Disability Championships and Special Olympics.

“From day one, Lloyd has been a beacon of inspiration—for coaches, gymnasts, and parents alike,” Josie reflects. “His powerful gymnastics skills, unwavering determination, and warm, vibrant personality light up every space he enters.”

Making history together

Lloyd’s achievements speak volumes about what’s possible with the right support. He has competed twice in the British Disability Championships and participated in several Special Olympics events. But it was his historic achievement at the London Marathon that truly captured hearts worldwide.

In 2024, Lloyd made history by becoming the youngest person with Down syndrome to complete the London Marathon, earning recognition with a Guinness World Record. The following year, in 2025, he returned to the iconic 26.2-mile course with Josie by his side as his support runner.

For Josie, who had never run more than 5km before 2024, training for the marathon was a journey of personal transformation. “Lloyd’s spirit inspired me to lace up and train – and one year later, I was right beside him, running one of the world’s most iconic races,” she shares.

The marathon day itself was pure magic. Every photograph captures Josie’s beaming smile as she witnessed Lloyd cartwheel, dance, and high-five the cheering crowds who called his name. “Experiencing that moment with him was unforgettable,” she says. “Watching him light up the course proved what we already knew: Lloyd is changing lives.”

Creating lasting change

Lloyd’s impact extends far beyond personal achievements. Through Prime Acrobatics’ partnership with Stepping Stones Down Syndrome – the charity Lloyd chose to support during his marathon runs – Josie now runs specialised classes every Saturday morning for children with Down syndrome.

“It has quickly become the highlight of my week,” Josie explains. “Watching these children thrive in an inclusive and supportive space, and seeing how grateful their parents are, reaffirms that disability should never be a barrier to sport.”

Lloyd plays a central role in these sessions, offering his time, encouragement, and lived experience to younger participants. Currently training to become a British Gymnastics Helper, he serves as a powerful role model, proving every day that children with Down syndrome can achieve anything they set their minds to.

The journey continues

The story doesn’t end with the marathon. Josie is now preparing for her next challenge: running the London Landmarks Half Marathon in 2026 for Down Syndrome UK. This commitment demonstrates her ongoing dedication to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for people with Down syndrome. You can donate to Josie’s fundraising page here.

“As we continue this journey together, my hope is to keep inspiring others – those with and without disabilities – to believe that anything is possible when you’re surrounded by the right people and environment,” Josie says.

The outpouring of love and support on social media and in person after Lloyd’s marathon achievements has shown the power of their story. They’re not just running races – they’re changing perceptions, breaking down barriers, and leading the way for true inclusion in sport.

Lloyd’s journey, supported by Josie, proves that with the right environment and opportunities, there are no limits to what people with Down syndrome can achieve.