Satchi & Matthew: South London and Proud
Having taken part in five of our previous Marathon Marches, Satchi and Matthew show no signs of slowing down. Living just minutes from Selhurst Park, we caught up with them to hear why they continue to support us and what makes South London so special to them.
South London born and bred, Satchi now lives just minutes from Selhurst Park with her partner Matt who made the move here fourteen years ago. Together, they’ve become devoted Palace supporters.
Having already taken part in five Marathon Marches, we sat down with them to hear their story and to discover what keeps them coming back to champion South London.
So, what inspired them to get involved in the first place?
Matt says his motivation started with being a massive Palace fan, but after learning more about our work in the community, he felt inspired to get involved.
For Satchi, it was slightly different, she remarked: “I had started doing a lot of exercise at the time and wanted a new sporting challenge – it was an interesting one the first one because we had to do 10 miles with wet feet because the Thames Park was flooded. I always say if I could do 10 miles with wet feet I can do it again.”
Since then, they have been inspired to continue coming back, especially as Satchi sees the difference of our work in the community:
“I’m really proud to be a South Londoner so for me it’s like you know this is my roots, this is my area so it’s great to see that anything we raise from the day and anything we raise for Palace for Life does go into the local area, helps to support and grow the area and the people that that are coming through to be our next generation.”
What makes the day so special?
Matt: “It’s a really great day out. You’re walking it, you’re talking to people, you’re meeting fellow people that are inspired to actually raise money for the charity as well.”
Satchi: “I think for me it’s great to meet other Palace fans that come down, meet a lot of new people that you know believe in the great work that Palace for Life do but also just you know get through it together. It’s a long day but it’s a good day. There’s lots of support from everyone and at the end you know it doesn’t matter how slow you are as you know people are there, cheering people on as they come through, no matter how fast or slow you’ve been.”
And finally, one message for someone who’s thinking of signing up but not quite sure?
Matt: “Everyone gets through it even if you’re fast, you’re slow, even if you’re actually struggling, there’s people that will stay with you and help you through it, so do not be scared.”
Satchi: “You’re well looked after and just remember to put one foot in front of the other, that’s the main thing.”
The Marathon March is now in its ninth year and has secured its place in the calendars of hundreds of Palace fans. It’s a marathon, but instead of running, we walk, talk, and make new friends and connections on the way. This year, it’s flatter, and friendlier on the legs, but still packed with the same South London spirit.
This year’s Marathon March taking place on Saturday 11th October 2025, during the international break.
You will receive your very own Marathon March T-Shirt and finishers medal, a training programme created by Palace fan and personal trainer Beulah Pickles and a fundraising guide to help you with your sponsorship.
Marchers are asked to pay a registration fee of £25 (£20 for half route, £10 under 18s) and to commit to raising a minimum of £300 each in sponsorship. You can also choose to March remotely, please just choose the ‘remote’ option when signing up.
To sign up to the 2025 Marathon March, click HERE.