NEWSFLASH 20 September 2009, 9:22pm: I did it, in 2 hours 45 minutes and 44 seconds. To all who have sponsored my run, thank you so very much.
You can look at the official chip times, or check out the detailed version at Garmin Connect.
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Those who know me, will know that I completed the Great North Run in 2006 to raise money for a very good cause. Some people might remember that in my case it wasn't so much a run as a kind of agonised shuffle. On 20th September 2009, I shall be doing it again.
Since completing that first 13.1 miles in October 2006, I've run a number of steps that probably doesn't quite make it into triple digits, and have eaten an estimated 200 pepperoni pizzas. So it's perfectly accurate for me to again state that I am not the most likely candidate to run in a half marathon, or even to run to catch a train. Once again, I am unfit, overweight, and in something of a panic.
I am taking this leap of madness because someone very close to me has been diagnosed with an autism spectrum condition. It's a lifelong thing, and I've been struggling hard to find ways to help.
In fact, I wouldn't have a clue what to do if it weren't for the remarkable organisation that I'm raising money for. The National Autistic Society provides individuals with autism and their families with help, support and services which can make a positive difference to their lives. Their contribution in the situation that I've mentioned above has been huge.
I think that what they do is fantastic, and so I'm digging out my old running shoes, cramming myself into my old running t-shirt, and getting ready to raise some money for them.
So please take this opportunity to make a donation right now to the National Autistic Society.
Donating through this site is simple, fast and secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: the NAS will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.
So please sponsor me now, and think of me on September 20th as I trudge round the 13.2 miles of the Great North Run. For my part, I'll greatly appreciate your kind donations and good wishes, and I'll run the damn race if it kills me :)
Many many many thanks for your support.
PS: All my training runs will appear in enormous detail on Garmin Connect.
