After an interesting climbing trip to the Himalayas last Summer, I decided to take things a little easier this year and rest in the South of France for two weeks.

What would I do when I returned? Panic Immediately set in until I recieved an email advertising the HSBC Cardiff 10K race.

Would I run for myself or run for a charity? Being asthmatic, raising money for asthma would have been the obvious choice, until, while heading for a coffee one day, I spotted a colleague by the name of Stuart Ball stood outside having a break while his guide dog 'Yardley' waited patiently.

I introduced myself to Stuart, explained my plan and asked 'Would he and Yardley like to run the 10K with me and raise money for 'Guide Dogs For The Blind' charity?'

Stuart paused, raised and offered his hand and a deal was made.

On September 6th, Stuart and I completed the 10K race 20 minutes faster than estimated.

Post race, Stuart informs me that he's well and truly hooked on running.

Once again, training has commenced and we've now registered for the 2009 Cardiff Half Marathon.

Thanks Stuart mate, can't bloody wait.