Blog. The Stein team take on 5 half marathons to support HA.

As Rick Stein's The Seafood Restaurant in Padstow celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025, the team is aiming to raise £50,000 for various charitable causes over 12 months, with Hospitality Action as its chosen Charity of the Year. 

Leading the charge are three dedicated team members, Georgina Rhodes (Personal Assistant to Rick Stein), and husband and wife duo Sophie O’Hagan (Guest Services Assistant, The Seafood Restaurant), and Mark O’Hagan (Group Head Chef, Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant), who are taking on five half marathons throughout the year.  

Each race is located close to a Rick Stein restaurant, with the team tackling 13.1 miles in Falmouth, Bristol, London, Winchester and Bournemouth. 

For Georgina, a seasoned runner, the challenge was a natural fit, but even she admits the scale is new.

“I wanted to fundraise and felt that, as running was ‘my thing’ why not give it a go for each of the decades. I’ve run races before, but never five in one year,” she said.  

 For Sophie, the campaign is personal. “Hospitality Action is close to our hearts. Coming from a hospitality background, I know how important it is that people get the right support when they need it most.”  She began training in January and completed the Falmouth Half Marathon in 2 hours 15 minutes.

“Bristol took me a bit longer because of the heat, but I’ve enjoyed the journey,” she added. “The hardest part is staying consistent with training, but I’m motivated by my children, my family, and the amazing support from my work team.” 

Mark said Hospitality Action is a charity that’s always meant a lot to the Rick Stein company and our industry.  

“I’ve seen firsthand how much it helps people. To have Sophie as a training partner has been amazing. We have both pushed each other to better ourselves and live a healthy life. My children are my fuel as well - seeing their faces at the finish line makes it all worth it.”  

For Mark, training around the demands of a busy kitchen and family life hasn’t been easy.  

“It's about time management and getting consistent with the process. But I’m proud to fly the Stein flag for such a great cause.” 

While the marathon trio continue to run for a great cause, other Rick Stein Restaurants team members contributed to the target with the 50 Things in the Month of May challenge. From walking or cycling 50km to baking 50 treats or even doing 50 acts of kindness, everyone chipped in to support the £50k for 50 years campaign. 

We’re so grateful to Team Stein for their energy and determination. Every pound they raise brings hope to hospitality people in need. 

Support their journey here.