On 16th September 2009 I registered for the Reading Half Marathon with visions of glory; running a great race with a great time!

On 17th September 2009 I remembered that I haven't run seriously for over a year now. All visions of glory have been violently replaced with the gruelling reality of having to train!

As soon as I got back from work I changed and threw myself out the door before body or mind could protest.

The first 100 meters felt great and I couldn't believe I didn't want to do this. Then, at the 101st metre, I remembered why! I ran through choking, stitches and general pain. I finished my first run with an enormous sense of satisfaction and blisters to match...new shoes needed!

Please do help me in my endeavour to raised £500 for Thrive. This is the charity I work for and it does great work. For more info visit www.thrive.org.uk or www.carryongardening.org.uk

Many thanks in advance.

Jan Broady