Thanks so much for visiting my JustGiving page.
On Sunday 24th October - after quite a few months of training - I took part in the Venice marathon – a 26 mile route from Stra (near Padua) to Venice. My aim was to complete the course (which I'm thrilled to say I did, in 4 hours 27 minutes), and to raise as much money as possible for Venice in Peril – the British Committee for the Preservation of Venice.
My decision to undertake this challenge (which, being spectacularly ‘un-sporty’ was undoubtedly the greatest physical test of my life so far!) was triggered off during the months I spent living in Venice in 2005 whilst working for the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. It was then, witnessing first-hand the extreme effects of the city’s frequent flooding, that I became aware of the vital need for the work that is being done by Venice in Peril. The shocking truth is that if we don't act now, much of Venice could be uninhabitable in just 50 years time. Venice in Peril is a charity which funds scientific research into the city’s underlying problems such as tourism, industry and flooding, particularly in the face of rising sea levels. As well as financing the restoration and conservation of individual buildings and works of art, the charity also lobbies for the long-term defence and sustainability of the city – both as a monument and a living community.
Taking part in the marathon was a phenomenal experience - a massive challenge, but so exhilarating - and I am just so relieved and proud to have completed it. It has also been incredibly rewarding raising funds and awareness for Venice in Peril - and I am so grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way. If you haven't already done so, I would be so grateful if you could spare a moment to visit the charity's website (www.veniceinperil.org) and consider sponsoring me in my attempt to raise as much money as possible for Venice in Peril. Any contribution that you are able to make would be hugely appreciated and mean a great deal to me and of course to the charity.
Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Venice In Peril gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.
