Monday 26th April - the day after!!!
What a day!!!...Finished successfully so really pleased although slower than hoped for. First half went pretty well but knee started causing problems from 9 miles so the second half was really tough going and a matter of survival!
But the experience was great, crowds unbelievable. Think my family and friends are as shattered as I am having managed to get to 4 different viewing positions during the race which is pretty good going considering the congestion in London.
So I have done it, ran the London Marathon at age 25 and 50 (dont suggest 75)....wont be doing it EVER again!!
The money raised is fantastic....over £1800 surpassing my target to the charity for £1500.....a HUGE thank you to everyone. You have made a difference.
See you all soon, well when the pain eases and blisters heal......Chris
Pre Race Update - 22nd April
OK panic well under way now....final 5 mile run out yesterday was fine, knee stiff as anything today! Usual now.
So all set, weather forecast far too warm and suncream at the ready...haven't practised applying that on the run!!
But thanks to everyone for their support, so near to the target and its not too late to donate if you havent already!!
Finally though on a serious note, when I AM struggling on Sunday at whatever mile I will think of my pal, winning his own battle in hospital and beginning to walk again and soon to return home, I will realise that my current problems are minor and get another few miles boost. Well done matey, your approach to your illness has been inspirational and I look forward to getting out onto the golf course with you again.
Will let you know how it all goes next week. Thanks again Chris
UPDATE: 6th April
Well just under 3 weeks to go..trying not to panic.... Been a very busy time....have survied some of long runs exactly as training programme dictates and a 50th birthday (not in the plan)!! Also thrown in a couple of hot runs whilst in Spain last week (8 mile and 7 miles, interesting).
Now I am struggling with a painful and swollen right knee so having to ease off a bit quicker than planned but hope all will be ok on the 25th!
As you can see now VERY close to the £1500 target pledged to the charity so thank you very much to everyone that has sponsored me, it has been a BIG incentive early on Sunday mornings to drag myself out of bed and go out for 2-3 hours running, and to also turn down that glass of wine or two. Now have lost another stone, in weight this time, and, apart from the knee, feel pretty fit.
Its not too late if you wish to sponsor me, however much will be gratefully received and move me nearer to that target.
Many thanks to all...and if anyone actually up in London to witness the event any loud cheer will be welcome.
Will let you all know the outcome!!
Chris
UPDATE: 22nd February 2010
Well here I am now halfway through training and yesterday, Sunday 21st Feb, completed the Brighton Beacon Half Marathon in what can only be described as horrendous conditions. Strong wind and rain off the sea and freezing cold. Still completed now, slower than I had hoped but I'll blame that on the weather!!
Running twice that seems a long way off and a very worrying thought so more miles needed in these legs to try and ensure I can cope with the big one.
Thanks to all who have donated so far - and a polite request to those who havent yet had time in that anything will be very gratefully received by this very worthwhile cause. The one thing that did strike me yesterday was the volume of charities and people out there raising money to try and make things better for others......
The Story.
Thanks for taking the time to visit my 2010 London Marathon JustGiving page.
Back in 1985 I ran the London Marathon at the tender age of 25. Recently I had this idea, I think I was sober at the time, that it would be good to run it again, 25 years later, when I reached 50. Well that time is next year, I know it's hard to believe, and I have just had confirmation of my place on the 25th April in the newly sponsored Virgin 2010 London Marathon...arghhh.
So now begins the slog of building up from a few miles to 26, and a bit. In order to make it worthwhile, apart of course for my personal satisfaction! I have chosen a worthy charity to benefit from my endeavours:
ABOUT THE ELIMINATION OF LEUKAEMIA FUND
The Elimination of Leukaemia Fund (ELF) was set up in 1977 to help advance the cure and
treatment of leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and myelodysplasia.
Since 1977 ELF has been helping to advance the cure and treatment of these blood cancers by:
• Sponsoring patient centred medical research
• Funding patient support activities
• Helping to educate doctors, nurses, clinical scientists and related health professionals
• Providing financial help to patients who experience hardship whilst being treated
http://www.elf-fund.org.uk/about_elf.html
Many of you will know that back in September 2008 we lost Iris, Jackie's mum. This followed her fight against lymphoma and aggressive treatment both of which she tackled bravely. Just when it looked like she had won through complications arose and after a week and another battle at The Royal Marsden in London she passed away. Naturally this was, and still is, very hard on all of our family.
Iris was well known locally, helping out as a volunteer at Halsford Park School, walking with the Ashdown Forest Rambling Club, even during her treatment, amongst many other things.
So when I looked for a good cause to support, ELF seemed ideal. Any donation you can give, as I try to build up to run 26 and a bit miles, (sounds awful doesn't it!) will be gratefully received. You can donate via this web site and a credit/ debit card payment, easy eh! Or if you prefer I have a good old fashioned sponsorship form that I can let you have and cash/ cheques will be gratefully accepted.
And if you see me on the treadmill at Chartham Park or out on the roads, give me a wave and think....silly 'old' sod!
Thanks again and I will let you know of training and progress prior to the day!
Chris
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.
So please dig deep and donate now.
