I made it – but only just…
As I picked up my runner number in a deluge of rain the day before the marathon, the prospect of a dry race didn’t look hopeful at all. The following morning I left the house in drizzle, feeling more or less fit – my longest run had been a painful and lonely 21 miles in the depths of our freezing early spring, so I wasn’t entirely convinced I could tack on an extra 5.2.
On arriving in the mud of Preston Park, I was quite anxious; however an enthusiastic, green-wigged team of staff and interns from Renewable World greeted me and reminded me as to why I was there – to raise money for Renewable World!
The cheering and support from the team, my family and the amazing crowd was fantastic. Without them, or the people who had sponsored and texted me in the run up to the day, I couldn’t have done it. Corny as it might sound, when I had the urge to stop over and over again, it was their support and encouragement that helped me to keep putting one foot in front of the other on.
I made it in 4 hours 33 minutes – a full 25 minutes faster than my last attempt. I think I must have found a new early ‘wall’ to hit as I dragged my feet the final 13 miles, but managed my fastest first 13….there must be a lesson there somewhere?
There were six ‘heroes in green’ running for Renewable World – our front runner and Trustee, Jim Watson, ran it in the incredible time of 3 hours 4 minutes. Together we have raised over £2,300 for Renewable World’s vital work. Huge thanks on behalf of Renewable World and congratulations to my fellow runners!
I smashed my personal fundraising target of £500 but I can’t really take the credit for it! I have some brilliant friends, family and colleagues who supported me. All I did was set up a Just Giving page, posted it on Facebook and LinkedIn, and sent some emails. People's generosity was overwhelming.
Are you looking to challenge yourself for Renewable World? Join us for this year’s Run to the Beat half marathon on 8th September or the Bournemouth Marathon on 6th October. For further info please get in touch.
Honestly, if I can do it, anyone can.