Story
On
12th July, I am running the British 10k in London for a charity
called Alive & Kicking. Having taught in a school in Uganda on my gap year, I experienced the frustration of how short a time ordinary footballs
lasted on rough African terrain.
Having
also recognised this problem, Alive & Kicking was set up to make leather
balls which are tough, affordable and repairable. These are produced in
disadvantaged areas of Kenya, Zambia and South Africa, providing employment for
over 150 stitchers, and then distributed to local children. All the balls carry an HIV/AIDS, malaria or TB message
so that teachers and coaches can use sport to inform young people about risks
to their health.
Although
I’m relieved not to be running another marathon, it will still be enough of
a challenge as I’m not quite in the same shape as last year especially following a
month of post-exam celebrations! And most importantly, I think this is a great
charity which is helping children in the poorest communities across Africa and providing
local employment. So unless you disagree, please sponsor me!
Thanks,
Alex
