Dear Friend,

I am going to run a half-marathon on 26^th of September to raise funds for Greenwich Starting Blocks Trust, which helps provide bursaries to give young, up-and-coming athletes a chance to develop their talents.

I would like to ask you to spare a bit of your time reading the below reason before you decide whether to donate or not, so let me tell you the story...

Until recently, all my life I was not very active, I had a lot of bad habits, been lazy and called it "enjoying life". Certainly, I was playing football, cycling and going to gym from time to time. I thought that must be sufficient for a healthy life, stupid me... However, once, when I tried to run up the stairs on the Underground, I could not even get half way up and started suffering, and it felt like my heart was about to blow, and I said to myself I will change my life. Straight after, a breeze of fresh air blown into my face and I realized that if I want to stay healthy and positive I need to change and I need to do sports.

Now I understand how important an active life and that sports are for everyone, especially for young children. They have to learn that as they grow up, to do a sport becomes harder and harder. 

Unfortunately, many different types of sport (track and field sports, football, cricket etc) require specific equipment that costs a lot of money.

The reason I’m going to run a half-marathon is to prove and remind myself that our health is the greatest gift ever and we shouldn't waste it, and also encourage our children by giving them the facilities to be positively active. These 13.1 miles will be tough challenge to me but knowing I have your support will encourage me to the finish line.  

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 taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate.

 

Thanks very much,

Sincerely yours,

Vlad Filipovs